accountant prepares and maintains financial records analyzes financial data and ensures compliance with laws and regulations. Key duties include managing accounts payable/receivable performing audits creating financial statements assisting with tax preparation and providing financial advice to management. Accountants use accounting software to monitor cash flow reconcile accounts and create financial reports for decision-making.
Key responsibilities
Financial Record Keeping: Maintain and organize financial records including the general ledger and ensure their accuracy.
Financial Reporting: Prepare and analyze financial statements (e.g. balance sheet profit and loss cash-flow) and other reports.
Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in creating and monitoring budgets and provide financial forecasts to support strategic planning.
Compliance and Auditing: Ensure compliance with tax laws regulations and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Conduct internal audits and resolve discrepancies.
Financial Analysis: Analyze financial data to identify trends assess business health and make recommendations for cost savings revenue enhancement and improved profitability.
Transaction Processing: Record transactions process invoices and manage accounts payable and receivable.
Tax Preparation: Prepare and file tax returns and provide advice on tax liabilities.
Skills and qualifications
Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices.
Proficiency with accounting software and spreadsheet applications (e.g. Microsoft Excel).
Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Good communication skills to explain findings to management.
An investigative nature and ability to be objective.
Work experience as an Accountant. Excellent knowledge of accounting regulations and procedures including the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) Hands-on experience with accounting software like FreshBooks and QuickBooks. Advanced MS Excel skills including Vlookups and pivot tables.