Twitter: Why Everyone In Business Should Have One- By: Benji Hyam

Twitter: Why Everyone In Business Should Have One

By: Benji Hyam

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Three months ago I could honestly tell you I thought Twitter was a waste of time. I couldn’t figure out what the # symbol meant, what these “trending topics were” or why people put the @ symbol in front of someone’s name. Now I consider Twitter one of the most useful business programs in my arsenal of social media tools.

When I ask someone why they don’t have a Twitter account, I usually get one of two responses: it’s either “I don’t get it,” or “I don’t see a reason to let people know what I’m doing at all times of the day by updating my status.” But these naysayers should know is that Twitter is much more than a website to make status updates; it’s software to quickly share news and information, network with people and gather information about what the competition is doing. With a real-time data feed, Twitter is one of the fastest ways to send/receive information on the topics that are relevant to you.

Twitter is the first place I go to for news, because when something important is going on in the world everyone is Tweeting about it. I follow experts on social media such as @briansolis, experts in technology like @mashable, and people who tweet about a plethora of business information like @vistage. Most industry influencers are already on Twitter and by following them you will often receive insightful information about new products, technology or trends in the industry.

Here are four reasons why as a business owner you should include Twitter in your social media strategy:

1. Share information: Twitter is a great to share what your company is doing. Think about what clients or potential clients would want to hear about and deliver it to them: new products that are coming out, new information that affects your industry, blog posts that help describe how to use or do something, etc. Also, engage them. Make it interesting! Give them incentives to read what you have to say.

2. Find out what the competition is doing: By following your competition you’ll be able to keep real-time tabs on how they’re marketing to their clients, who’s interacting with them and who they’re following.

3. Stay current on new events and trends: The most important events in the world are often being talked about on Twitter. The trending topics usually have to do with some current event or the most popular things that people are talking about at the point in time. By following important people in your industry you’ll oftentimes find that you are the first one to get the news through Twitter.

4. Join the conversation­: If nothing else, at least join in the conversation. See what your customers are saying about your product and respond to them, see what conversations there are about your company and if there is bad press, resolve it! Social media is another outlet that people love to share their opinion about your company, products, employees, experience, etc. It’s important to know what people are saying so that if there’s a problem, you can correct it.

So I challenge you (if you haven’t done so already) to at least create an account and see what the micro-blogging world is all about. Who knows… maybe you’ll end up changing your mind about it like I did. If you do, please share with me below how you or your company uses Twitter.

Follow me @benjivistage

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Accounting Manager (Percent Completion) Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

 

 
 
   
 
 
 
First-line manager responsible for an accounting group that is responsible for organizing and performing accounting activities for our manufacturing plants. These duties include supervision of the recording of fabrication revenue globally under the percentage of completion method of accounting, supervision of the recording and analysis of operating costs at each manufacturing facility, management reporting including variance analysis and explanations and supervision of an accounting staff.  

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Directs the daily activities of the US based accounting staff
  • Responsible for the timely and accurate preparation, analysis and distribution of the monthly fabrication financial results  to management including oversight of the all monthly, quarterly and year end closings
  • Through the use of review of general ledger account analysis and other analytical reviews and substantive support, ensures that the world-wide fabrication financial records are accurate
  • Reviews contracts for proper USGAAP accounting treatment.
  • Identifies and resolves problems and inconsistencies, determining appropriate corrective procedures that often requires cross-functional solutions and communications with various departments and locations
  • Communicates, coaches, trains and coordinates accounting policies and procedures to all fabrication accountants globally
  • Responsible for identifying coordinating and implementing improvements in accounting processes and controls across all fabrication locations
  • Assigns duties, determines departmental objectives and supports conformance to policies and procedures
  • Required to discuss and present financial results and or issues to management, either by teleconference or in person.
  • Performs monthly variance analysis of the fabrication financial results and responds to management inquiries.
  • Provides financial data and expertise to internal management to assist them in various strategic and operating decisions
  • Responsible for review and preparation of US fabrication account reconciliations.
  • Responsible for tracking and reporting global fabrication backlog and forecasting the timing of the subsequent revenue recognition of such backlog.
  • ·         Provide leadership around cost control and good working capital management
 
 
 
Required Skills or Tools:

  • Proficient using complete Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, etc.) and PC skills
  • Proficient with email system; Microsoft Outlook preferred
  • Proficient using computer-based ERP system; Oracle and Essbase reporting tool preferred
  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from a four-year college or university
  • Preferred Certified Public Accountant.
  • 10 -15 years accounting experience, strong preference for significant experience in/with manufacturing
  • Prior experience in managing a team responsible for month end close processes across multiple locations
  • Hands on knowledge of USGAAP including application of Percentage of Completion revenue recognition.
  • Experience with international operations and reporting a plus
  • Public accounting experience a plus

 

January 2011 Newsletter for Accounting Professionals – Houston, Texas

Industry News and Updates

Click this link first!!!!  www.linkedin.com/in/dianedelgadolemaire and invite me to link in with you.

Ok, now….HAPPY New Year!!!!!! I am excited about 2011; we have been so busy. It seems like businesses are finally seeing light at the end of the tunnel and realizing that they need to hire staff due to an increase in sales and sales projections. We have seen an increase in both temporary and permanent orders. Our clients in Houston are hiring at every level from staff accountants to VP spots. This is great news for everyone. The best part is many Accountants are going to make a move this year. Let’ s face it, many of you didn’t want to risk moving during a recession. However, at this time we have Accountants, Controllers and CFO’s who have been waiting on the sidelines for 2 years ready to see what is out there. This will actually work in everyone’s favor (whether you are looking or not). Vacancies within an organization can create new opportunities for the people working there and obviously for external job seekers. As you can tell I am VERY optimistic about this year. I can’t wait to send you my next update in March.

If you ever wonder what I am recruiting for you can always follow my blog at: www.dianedelgadolemaire.wordpress.com.

Local Statistics:

  • National / Houston Unemployment Rate: 9.3% / 8.6%
  • Price of Oil:  $90.00 (last year $75)
  • Oil Rig Count: 1711 (last year 1172)
  • Industries hiring: Business Services; Consulting Firms; Healthcare; Oil & Gas; Non Profits
  • Positions in demand: 2 to 8 year Accountants, Internal Audit jobs are back and there is a serious lack of Tax talent in the market place.
  • Industries not hiring or flat: Homebuilding, Construction
Below is a partial list of our local and national searches:
Local Searches
  • 2 Full Time Consultants (combination Audit and Industry Background, CPA) 60 to 110K
  • 8 Contract Consultants – Must have External Audit in the past 4 years – Paid OT – Sign On and Completion Bonuses!!!!
  • Expatriate Tax Manager – Greenway 100 to 115K
  • Senior Accountant – North  70K to 85K
  • Staff Internal Audit – North Houston – 55 to 65K
  • Senior Internal Audit – North Houston – 65 to 85K – 40% travel
  • SEC Analyst – Greenway Plaza, 65 to 85K
  • Spanish Speaking Internal Auditor – Memorial, 50 to 65K
  • SEC Analyst – Downtown- 85K plus 15% bonus
  • Assistant Controller  West Houston – 110 to 135K
  • JIB Supervisor – Northwest Houston, 65 to 96K
  • VP Finance – Private Equity – 125K plus 25K bonus plus plus
  • Revenue Accountant (Onshore) – North Houston
  • Senior Financial Analyst – Downtown
  • Director of Finance – Southeast Houston – 135K
  • Fixed Asset Accounting Manager – 85K – West Houston
  • Payroll Accountant – 65K – West Houston
National Searches
  • 8 Contract Consultants (combination Audit and Industry Background, CPA) 60 to 110K (San Antonio & Dallas)
  • Director of International Reporting, Redmond, WA
  • International Tax Director, 130 to 150K, Michigan
  • Controller, Austin, Texas 85K
  • Controller, Northbrook, IL 135K
  • Director of International Tax, San Antonio, TX 130 to 150K

Expatriate Tax Manager – dcd@fittsroberts.com – Houston

BASIC FUNCTION: Assist with the development and implementation of expatriate taxation policy worldwide. Liaise with field offices to review, participate and advise on employee tax policies, processes and issues as related to the Expatriate population. Manage field employee tax policy questions on a case by case basis. Recommend changes to ensure the organization’s employee taxation policies as applied in the Divisions are in alignment with the global mobility strategy. Raise questions of risk with Corporate tax and immigration (work visa) requirements. Review vendor contracts and invoices.

DUTIES:
Support Global Mobility in maintaining strong relationships with key mobility stakeholders.
Assist with the development and implementation of an expatriate tax strategy worldwide
Review operational compliance as related to employee taxation and immigration
Collaborate with Divisions and other functional departments globally to ensure consistent processes and approach to expatriate tax methodology
Liaise with expatriate payroll tax and accounting to assist with and resolve data delivery questions
Responsible for developing, implementing and maintaining a set of metrics for this function
Manage day to day vendor interactions as necessary, review vendor contract and provide budget information for fees. Ensure service delivery in accordance with agreed upon SLAs.
Manage escalated questions and issues raised by assignees, HR or hiring managers related to expatriate taxation

QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION: BS/BA/BBA or equivalent University degree in accounting, business or finance. Certified Public Accountant status or equivalency preferred

EXPERIENCE: 7+ years experience in expatriate taxation and/or relevant experience in international assignment administration with a multinational organization with exposure to diverse taxing regimes. Industry knowledge preferred.

SKILLS:
• Technical knowledge of international expatriate tax principles
• Management of international assignments on a global basis
• Pays close attention to detail, comfortable working with figures
• Sound practical knowledge and experience in delivery of assignment services to an expatriate population (including client service, policy, process and technology).
• Able to manage tight deadlines
• IT skills (MS-Office package)

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Good communication skills
• Strong collaborative team player who aligns with business and team goals and objectives
• Customer focus
• Solution driven
• Able to set priorities and work under pressure

SUPERVISION: New position with no current direct reports.

BUDGETS: Assist with providing budget information to global mobility director

INGENUITY: Must understand the diversity of the expatriate population and have a general knowledge of their tax implications based on the countries to which they are assigned. Also must have the ability to comprehend the complexities of the tax implications for moving an assignee from one position or geographical location to another (or both).

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

Revenue Accountant – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

We are seeking candidates for our Revenue Accountant position in Houston, TX.  This position will report to the Supervisor of Revenue Distribution Accounting.  The salary range will be $45,600 – $57,600.  Listed below is the job description and other qualifications.

Position Summary:

  • Accounting for onshore oil & gas revenues for various Midcontinent and Rocky Mountain states.
  • Reconcile various G/L accounts including sales, royalties payable, cash receipts, accounts receivable, tax liability, and tax expense accounts.
  • Analyzing monthly trends and variances.

 

Qualifications

  • Accounting degree preferred.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office.
  • Experience with oil and gas accounting systems.  Citation uses a recent version of Excalibur (EDGE).
  • Knowledge of oil and gas accounting practices is a plus.

 

The successful candidate will have strong proactive and analytical skills, professional work ethic, and a cooperative attitude.

2010 in review

The stats helper monkeys at WordPress.com mulled over how this blog did in 2010, and here’s a high level summary of its overall blog health:

Healthy blog!

The Blog-Health-o-Meter™ reads Fresher than ever.

Crunchy numbers

Featured image

A Boeing 747-400 passenger jet can hold 416 passengers. This blog was viewed about 4,900 times in 2010. That’s about 12 full 747s.

In 2010, there were 120 new posts, growing the total archive of this blog to 152 posts. There were 13 pictures uploaded, taking up a total of 995kb. That’s about a picture per month.

The busiest day of the year was November 4th with 166 views. The most popular post that day was Senior Financial Analyst – West Houston – 70 to 75K – dcd@fittsroberts.com.

Where did they come from?

The top referring sites in 2010 were linkedin.com, mail.yahoo.com, lmodules.com, mail.live.com, and twitter.com.

Some visitors came searching, mostly for diane delgado lemaire.

Attractions in 2010

These are the posts and pages that got the most views in 2010.

1

Senior Financial Analyst – West Houston – 70 to 75K – dcd@fittsroberts.com November 2010

2

Pictures January 2010
1 comment

3

About Me April 2009

4

My Resume February 2010

5

Current Job Openings!!!!! Accounting & Finance – Houston, Texas February 2010

Internal Audit Manager – dcd@fittsroberts.com – Houston

Responsibilities

The Internal Audit Manager is responsible for leading the Sarbanes-Oxley effort for the corporation and help ensure compliance. In addition this responsibility includes involvement with individual internal audit projects, as part of the total internal audit plan. This responsibility includes developing internal audit scope, performing internal audit procedures, and preparing internal audit reports reflecting the results of the work performed. Work performed will include coverage of functional and operating units, focusing on financial, IT and operational processes. The Manager will also assist Internal Audit Director with periodic reporting to the Audit Committee, development of the annual internal audit plan, and championing internal control and corporate governance concepts throughout the business. The Manager will often direct and review the work performed by other internal audit personnel.

Qualifications:

Work on supporting management with the development and maintenance of key controls identified for Sarbanes-Oxley.

Understanding of internal control concepts and experience in applying them to plan, perform, manage and report on the evaluation of various business processes/areas/functions.

Ability to work independently, with limited required direction and guidance, and provide appropriate direction to other internal audit project team members.

Strong verbal and written communication skills, to effectively present to peers and management.

Exhibit the leadership skills needed to sell ideas and obtain management buy-in for constructive change.

Understanding of internal auditing standards, COSO and risk assessment practices.

Understanding of the technical aspects of accounting and financial reporting.

Experience in performing multiple projects and working with varying team members.

Desired Qualifications

Undergraduate degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA designation

5+ years of public accounting and/or private industry experience with knowledge of accounting, finance and internal control areas

Prior industry experience is a plus.

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

  

VP Finance – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

The VP will be a key member of management and will act as a liaison between management,

the investors, and other financial constituents. The responsibilities will primarily include the

following:

 

Developing and executing plan to professionalize accounting, finance, and reporting to the

Board, Investors and Management

The VP will be responsible for professionalizing the Company’s accounting and finance

operations and assisting in implementing strategic opportunities. The VP will be expected to

assume the mindset of an owner and an operator in suggesting innovative, value‐creating

initiatives. Examples of duties could include managing growth and the resulting capital

requirements, minimizing taxes, evaluating strategic M&A and divestitures, minimizing working

capital, and continually optimizing the company’s capital structure. The VP will also create and

manage best‐in‐class financial controls and reporting mechanisms to empower the company’s

decision making capabilities, with an immediate focus on inventory management and medical

billing systems.

Ideal candidates are those who thrive in demanding, analytical, and meritocratic work

environments where hard work is rewarded.

 

Qualifications

 CPA with audit or tax experience required

 Operations experience in an entrepreneurial or start‐up company a plus

 Six to ten years of work experience

 Strong analytical and quantitative skills desired

Senior Financial Analyst – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

  Position Description

• Coordination and preparation of weekly earnings and cash flow forecasts.
• Coordination and preparation of monthly earnings and financial results and analysis for presentation to senior management.
• Coordination and preparation of annual earnings, cash flow, and capital budgets.
• Preparation and analysis of forecasted balance sheets and cash flows.
• Monitoring of monthly accounting close and verification of results.
• Monitoring and analyzing reports, reconciling accounts, researching variances and providing explanations.
• Provide accurate and timely projected financial information and related statistics for support in the strategic and tactical decision-making process.
• Interface with all levels of management to obtain data and information necessary to complete duties.

           
  Position Requirements

• 5 – 7 years experience in accounting or financial analysis and planning.
• Extensive experience in performing detailed financial variance analysis.
• Experience in computerized accounting systems, financial modeling, budgets, operations analysis, and management reporting.
• Detailed understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and the accounting process.
• Excellent spreadsheet skills.
• Ability to work independently to understand, design, and create complex models and reports is essential.
• Must have the skills to communicate effectively in a clear and concise manner in both oral and written form.
• Ability to handle, prioritize, and execute multiple tasks.
• Must possess problem solving skills and ability to develop solutions.
• Critical thinking, understand what is in the numbers and how they interrelate.
• Must exhibit professionalism and commitment to company values.
• Must be able to work with a team, take direction from management, meet deadlines, focus on attention to detail, and be committed to produce a quality product.
• Must be able to work under intense time pressure with multiple deadlines and changing priorities; ability to effectively interface with other financial personnel .
• Quick to assume responsibilities; strong organizational skills.

Education Required

Bachelors Degree in Accounting or Finance
MBA / CPA preferred

Senior Tax Analyst – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

BASIC FUNCTION: Performs as reviewer for routine tax work and as preparer for complex tax work. Reviews/prepares federal income tax returns, return workpapers and consolidating workpapers, net operating loss carryover computations and current year allocation to subsidiaries, tax basis depreciation schedules, asset disposition analysis, foreign tax credit, and earnings and profit analysis. Reviews/prepares state income tax returns, annual reports, franchise tax returns, and other miscellaneous tax returns. Supports federal and state tax return audits as necessary. Performs tax research and planning as needed.

DUTIES: AUTHORITY
1. Develops, implements and maintains internal processes and controls around domestic tax compliance. II
2. Reviews/prepares federal and state income tax returns. II
3. Assists the IRS Audit group with federal and state income tax return audits, as necessary. II
4. Reviews/prepares various miscellaneous domestic tax return filings such as property, sales and use and excise tax returns. II
5. Works with Treasury group on annual bank account filings.
6. Assists Tax Reporting group with quarterly book to tax adjustments, as necessary.
7. Assists Legal group with required filings for changes in the organizational structure.
8. Works on various tax research projects impacting tax filings.

 

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

 

Internal Controls Analyst – dcd@fittsroberts.com – Houston, Texas

BASIC FUNCTION: The Senior Analyst is responsible for assisting with the documentation, coordination, and assessment of all key business processes, inherent risks, and mitigating controls throughout the organization. The Senior Analyst is responsible for the operation and administration of software applications to operate the control framework and for training and education. The Senior Analyst will assist the Internal Audit department and external auditors.

MISSION: Our mission is to support and monitor the company¡¦s internal control environment to promote (1) reliability of financial statements, (2) efficiency and effectiveness in business processes, (3) compliance with laws and regulations, and (4) safeguarding of assets.

DEPARTMENT OBJECTIVES:
The Internal Controls Group is primarily responsible for the maintenance of an internal control framework according to the COSO ¡§Internal Control ¡V Integrated Framework¡¨ model of internal control, coordination of management¡¦s quarterly certifications for its disclosure controls and annual assessment of its internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) as required by the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002. The group has the following departmental objectives:

1. Maintaining documentation of key processes, the risk assessments, and mitigating controls.
2. Supporting the design and effectiveness of the company¡¦s control structure.
3. Monitoring risk and advising process owners of mitigation alternatives.
4. Recommending improvements to and promoting standardization of processes.
5. Supporting quarterly management certifications and management¡¦s assessment of effective internal control for its annual report on ICFR.
6. Interfacing with internal and external auditors to achieve internal control goals.
7. Maintaining Finance policy and procedures for the worldwide organization.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities Authority
Meet with process owners to develop accurate representations of significant business processes, using flow charts and narratives. II
Conduct 404 formal and informal walkthroughs (test of one) for significant business processes to confirm the documentation. II
Identify, classify, and detail internal controls for significant business processes. II
Establish and implement internal controls policies and procedures, as well as financial and operational policies and procedures. III
Administer the framework tools to support assessments and testing. II
Support self assessments of the user community and report results. II
Conduct on-site visits to company locations to provide guidance on internal controls compliance and assist with process documentation efforts. III
Coordinate testing requirements with Internal Audit and external auditors. III
Serve as a liaison between Internal Auditors and the business units to develop remediation plans for control exceptions. II
Identify and develop best practices for performing internal controls. II
Perform assessment of service provider reviews (SAS 70) annually. II
Assist the process owners and control owners with the design and implementation of changes to the control structure when necessary. II
Keep abreast of the evolution of regulatory requirements and business trends. The Analyst is responsible for maintaining a knowledge base and continued education of changes and trends with regard to the regulations and to best practice approaches to comply with requirements

 

Internal Auditor 25 to 35% travel – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

Internal Auditor

 

Position Description:

 

The Internal Auditor may be involved in all phases of an audit, including planning, project execution and communication, as directed by the associated project supervisor. The Internal Auditor will work with the audit team and business personnel to understand both financial and operational controls, determine and assess risks within processes, identify controls and deficiencies and provide recommendations to improve processes under review. Finally, the Internal Auditor may be involved in special projects and/or company initiatives.

Responsibilities:

  • Interacts with process owners and control owners in areas under review, conveying the department’s guiding principles of integrity, objectivity, innovation, excellence and teamwork
  • Develops audit programs designed to evaluate reliability of financial information, effectiveness of internal controls, efficiency of operations and compliance with established policies and procedures
  • Documents business processes, identifying key controls and identifying process improvement opportunities
  • Performs audit fieldwork
  • Monitors compliance with established policies, procedures and sound business practices
  • Promotes implementation of best practices to strengthen internal controls
  • Prepares, assembles and organizes work papers documenting audit procedures performed
  • Communicates status and findings to supervisor throughout course of audit
  • Drafts audit reports, detailing audit procedures performed and findings (including strengths and weaknesses)
  • Assists with preparation of control reports, status reports, scorecards and presentations
  • Finalizes audit reports, incorporating management responses
  • Complies with departmental policies and procedures
  • Assists with special projects, as needed

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree, preferred in Business-related field
  • Professional Certification, such as CIA, CPA or CISA or certification candidate preferred
  • 3 – 5 years experience in auditing and risk management positions OR 4 -7 years experience in drilling or manufacturing industries with progressing levels of responsibility
  • General understanding of business and accounting principles

 

Interested candidates should demonstrate:

  • Broad understanding of internal control principles, design, evaluation and remediation and general computing controls
  • Strong analytical, organizational and time management skills, including ability to manage multiple priorities concurrently
  • Professionalism
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Service-oriented approach
  • Solid work ethic
  • Team-player attitude
  • Proficiency with PC-based tools, including the Microsoft Office Suite, SAP and computer assisted auditing tools

IT Auditor – Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

IT Auditor

Position Description:

 

The Information Technology Auditor may be involved in all phases of an audit, including planning, project execution and communication, as directed by the associated project supervisor. The IT Auditor will work with the audit team and business personnel to understand information technology controls, determine and assess risks within processes, identify controls and deficiencies and provide recommendations to improve processes under review. Finally, the IT Auditor may be involved in special projects and/or company initiatives.

Responsibilities:

  • Interacts with process owners and control owners in areas under review, conveying the department’s guiding principles of integrity, objectivity, innovation, excellence and teamwork
  • Develops audit programs designed to evaluate reliability of financial information, effectiveness of internal controls, efficiency of operations and compliance with established policies and procedures
  • Documents business processes, identifying key controls and identifying process improvement opportunities
  • Performs audit fieldwork
  • Monitors compliance with established policies, procedures and sound business practices
  • Promotes implementation of best practices to strengthen internal controls
  • Prepares, assembles and organizes work papers documenting audit procedures performed
  • Communicates status and findings to supervisor throughout course of audit
  • Drafts audit reports, detailing audit procedures performed and findings (including strengths and weaknesses)
  • Assists with preparation of control reports, status reports, scorecards and presentations
  • Finalizes audit reports, incorporating management responses
  • Complies with departmental policies and procedures
  • Assists with special projects, as needed

Qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree, preferred in Management Information Systems, Accounting or Finance
  • Professional Certification, such as CISA, CIA, or CPA or certification candidate preferred
  • 1 – 3 years experience in technology auditing and risk management positions
  • General understanding of business and accounting principles

Interested candidates should demonstrate:

  • Broad understanding of internal control principles, design, evaluation and remediation and general computing controls
  • Strong analytical, organizational and time management skills, including ability to manage multiple priorities concurrently
  • Professionalism
  • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Service-oriented approach
  • Solid work ethic
  • Team-player attitude
  • Proficiency with PC-based tools, including the Microsoft Office Suite, SAP and computer assisted auditing tools
  • Ability to travel 25 to 35%

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

Fixed Asset Accounting Manager – West Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

This position reports to the Corporate Financial Shared Services Director. The individual in this position will have the responsibility for managing and overseeing all activities and associate responsibilities related to fixed asset accounting in compliance with internal controls and USGAAP on a global basis, including the maintenance and reconciliation of the Fixed Assets accounting system in SAP, capital spending tracking and related reporting.

• Oversee reconciliation of fixed asset subsidiary ledgers to the GL monthly; resolve any resulting discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Design, implement and monitor process to ensure all asset additions, transfers and disposals are appropriately accounted.
• Coordinate efforts to identify and resolve systems or operational issues that affect the company’s fixed asset balances.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining strong working relationships with the locations served under the shared function organization. To this end, train and educate their customers on data relationships, policies/procedures and potential areas of concern.
• Oversee monthly fluctuation analyses on changes in the FA and accumulated depreciation accounts and communicate findings and recommendations to locations that own the assets.
• Prepare tax and reporting schedules and resolve audit issues identified by auditors, prepare depreciation and other fixed asset-related entry adjustments.
• Ensure strict compliance with SOX.
• Prepare supporting tax schedules for income and property tax returns and tracking the company’s capital expenditure against capital requests.
• Coordinate all communication and work with Finance counterparts and Controllers at multiple locations.
• Prepare ad hoc reports for Sr. Management and Corporate as necessary.
• Maintain accurate and current documentation and files. Job Requirements/ Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting preferred and 5+ years work experience in a financial accounting environment. 4+ years management experience.

Analytical Ability – This role requires significant attention to details. Therefore, the candidate should be able to collect, analyze and interpret data to produce accurate reporting. Ability to work with detail to identify errors and root causes of errors, develop workable solutions or alternatives. Ability to continuously improve reporting processes and tools.

Teamwork & Interpersonal Skills – Proven ability to thrive in a team environment and go the ‘extra mile’ if necessary. The candidate should be willing to assist other team members to achieve team goals and objectives, and share learning with other team members.

Communication Skills – Excellent communication, problem solving and organizational skills. Must be comfortable in interacting with others.
Planning and Organization Skills –Must be a meticulous self-starter and have the ability to multi-task to meet tight timelines.

Independent and self driven. Demonstrates assertiveness in pursuing open issues to closure.

Systems Experience – Advanced MS Excel, PowerPoint, Word are a must. SAP, Hyperion Financial Management (HFM), Business Warehouse are desirable.

Regional Director of Finance – Southeast Houston – dcd@fittsroberts.com

Director, Region Controller

Description

Directs the financial activities of the region, supporting Regional Vice President in business control, driving profitable revenue, plan development, safeguarding internal controls and identifying areas of concern. Responsible for planning, organizing and controlling all accounting and financial activities at a region level. Ensures all financial data and information is submitted to corporate in a timely and accurate manner.

  • Supports and advises the Regional Vice President in performing business control tasks. 
  • Acts as an important business partner and adviser for other managers and employees in the field organization while maintaining a core business and customer focus.
  • Assists the Regional Vice President in driving profitable revenue growth and achieving results.
  • Safeguards a good internal control environment in order to protect the company assets and to make sure financial reporting and accounting matters are in accordance with guidelines, FAM and statutory accounting practice. 
  • Takes a proactive role in making sure red flags are highlighted and that action plans are put in place when necessary.  
  • Coordinates accounting activities between regional office and corporate and helps ensure that open communication is maintained. 
  • Demonstrates excellent customer service by conducting daily activities in a cooperative and professional manner. 
  • Prepares reports that summarize and forecast regional business activity and financial position in the areas of income, expense and earnings based on past, present and expected operations. 
  • Drives, implements, sustains and develops quality process improvements that focus on safety, financials, operations and customer service.
  • Minimum five years of progressive experience in accounting with a budgeting-finance background.  Operational management experience a plus.
  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in finance or accounting.
  • MBA preferred.
  • Ability to communicate and interact effectively with the corporate and liaison offices and employees at all levels. Must possess strong leadership capabilities.
  • Advanced training in accounting techniques and practices.

 

Staff Accountant – dcd@fittsroberts.com – Houston, Texas

 

 

 

Description:

 

The firm is seeking a candidate with a strong academic performance, superior drive and work ethic, and a desire to work within a fast paced, entrepreneurial environment.Candidate should have a proficient working knowledge of accounting.

 

Candidate will work within a growing Portfolio Company with operations

focused private equity firm personnel. In this role, candidate will gain operational and accounting experience working with Portfolio Company Senior Management/ VP of Finance in a broad range of areas including finance, sales, and operations. In this role, the candidate will have the opportunity to progress within the Portfolio Company, and ultimately shape the future of the Portfolio Company. 

Accountant will be responsible for providing information to management through assembling and summarizing data; preparing reports; making presentations of findings, analyses, and recommendations. Accountant will be responsible for working with accounting personnel on accounting tasks, developing financial controls, preparing and enhancing the financial reporting package.

Qualifications:

Four year bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, or finance

CPA with audit or tax experience required

Two to four years of work experience

Operations experience in an entrepreneurial or startup company a plus 

 

Must be adaptable, able to multitask, and take on additional responsibilities as necessaryDiane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

Credit & Collections Manager – Houston, Texas

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

  • Supervise credit and collection activities at Corporate and in the field.

 

  • Conducts credit investigations and collecting delinquent accounts of customers.

 

  • Investigating and verifying financial status and reputation of prospective customers applying for credit, preparing documents to substantiate findings, and recommending rejection or approval of applications.

 

  • Establishes credit limitations on customer accounts and handles special credit arrangements and deviations from standard terms of payment.

 

  • Establishes and updates customers’ credit activities.

 

  • Assists in determining the appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts

 

  • Reviews collection reports to ascertain status of collections and balances outstanding and to evaluate effectiveness of current collection policies and procedures.

 

  • Audits delinquent accounts considered to be uncollectible to ensure maximum efforts have been taken before assigning bad debt status to account.

 

  • Reviews accounts receivable detail on a daily basis and takes prompt action to investigate and clear past due invoices, deductions, unidentified and unapplied cash.

 

  • Supplies information to and works with the field controller and project administrators to accelerate the payment schedule of slow paying customers.

 

  • Gathers analyzes customer credit and financial information as defined by corporate credit policy to safeguard company assets and minimize risk associated with extending open credit terms.  Utilizes Dunn & Bradstreet and /or other sources to analyze credit terms and risk.

 

  • Reviews new orders and blocked order, conducts credit investigations as required and takes appropriate action based on customers’ credit status.

 

  • Prepares monthly reversal package or accounts receivable trends and metrics.

 

  • Apply cash received from lockbox or ACH payments to (lower tier) customer accounts in Oracle,  including customer inquiries for deductions and unidentified cash as well as retrieval and distribution of support documentation (i.e. check copies, remittance details, etc.).

 

  • Resolve customer deductions and payment discrepancies.

 

  • Apply wire transfer payments received.

 

  • Contact customers to investigate deductions or undocumented payments.

 

  • Provide customers with correct wire transfer payment instructions.

 

  • Special projects and customer visits as assigned by management.

 

  • Submit delinquent accounts to in-house legal or outside agency for collection and/or initiates contractor liens.

 

  • Assist management in the formulation of credit policies.

Supervisory Responsibilities                                                     

 Credit and collection analyst at corporate and in the field 

Education and/or Experience                                                     

Business degree with a minimum of five years of experience serving as manager or supervisor of credit and collections department for a major corporation with multiple field offices.   Experience with percentage of completion contracts desirable, but not required

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn

Non Profit Director of Finance

Responsibilities

  • Develop and manage effective administrative/financial systems including financial, accounting, legal,  human resources and facilities
  • Participate in developing new business ventures/structures leading to job creation opportunities for  clients including researching best business structures to accommodate said ventures
  • Develop plans for maximization of company assets, i.e. property, cash and resources
  • Conduct on-going fiscal monitoring of  contractors/sub recipients including the development of monitoring tools as per contract guidelines.
  • Build relationships and participate in high level meetings with funding agencies and potential funders/donors
  • Prepare annual budget and implements administrative controls, including the preparation of the cost allocation plan for the agency.
  • Manage HR, payroll and benefits functions including continuous development of cost savings initiatives
  • Attend meeting with Board of Directors and prepare financial reports for presentation to Board
  • Direct procurement efforts as per internal regulations and ensure all practices in line with federal and state guidelines
  • Develop and execute accounting fiscal procedures to ensure accurate and effective handling of all the organization’s accounting and finances
  • Manage accounting department with supervision of accountants and support staff
  • Possess excellent contract compliance with financially prudent and responsible revenue utilization
  • Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, prepare budgets, including modifications
  • Coordinate with outside auditors in preparation of schedules and analysis necessary for the smooth completion of the independent audits.  Ensure all audits result in no material findings
  • Maintain accounting records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, DOL and TWC Financial Management Manual, and the Uniform Grants and Contract Management Standards.
  • Manage multiple funding streams and cost reimbursement contracts for both federal and state grants
  • Prepare monthly and annual financial reporting materials and metrics
  • Oversee budgeting, financial forecasting and cash flow
  • Prepare monthly financial status reports as required by grants and contracts.
  • Prepare sub recipient contracts align with contractual and legal requirements
  • Ensure compliance and submit applicable reports to the Internal Revenue Service, Texas Workers Compensation, Texas Workforce Commission, and other regulatory entities.
  • Monitor the internal fiscal, purchasing, and personnel administration in compliance with federal, state, and local law, regulations, and interpretations, and ensures that agency policies and actions remain in compliance.
  • Prepare comparative analysis of operating programs by analyzing costs in relation to services performed and submits reports to management team with recommendations for budget revisions.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the CEO.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, or Business Administration with a minor in Accounting.  CPA preferred with a Master’s Degree in Finance or Business Administration.
  • Minimum of 5 years experience in governmental and/or fund accounting and extensive knowledge of grant accounting requirements including managing the finance and administration of a $3 – $5 million non-profit organization.
  • Experience should include legal, audit, compliance, budget and resource development.
  • Proven management experience totaling three years or more.
  • Committed to the mission of the company with high personal integrity

Diane Delgado LeMaire | Senior Managing Director, Accounting & Finance Recruiting | Creative Financial Staffing, a division of Fitts, Roberts CPA Firm | 5718 Westheimer Suite 800 | Houston, TX 77057 | 713-260-5238 | dcd@fittsroberts.com| Blog| Twitter| LinkedIn