Manager of Accounting and Member Service

SUMMARY:

Directs the planning, coordination, and control of the accounting functions to ensure that the Cooperative financial records are kept in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and RUS requirements. Provides guidance and direction to ensure processes are in place to provide excellent member service and accuracy of account and billing information. Performs all work in a dependable, confidential, and professional manner.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Performs other duties as assigned by management applying the same skill and enthusiasm as with regularly assigned responsibilities. All duties are to be performed as instructed in training and following written procedures or policies if applicable unless unusual circumstances dictate otherwise.

Accounting Duties:

· Coordinate the annual audit by the Cooperative’s independent auditing firm, review the completed audit report, and confer with the auditors to determine areas requiring corrective action, and implement such action.

· Develop the Cooperative's budget and work plan for approval by the Assistant General Manager, monitor expenditures, and recommend changes for corrective action.

· Initiate the internal auditing program to provide effective control and safeguarding of Cooperative assets by reviewing current systems and policies, recommend changes when necessary, and implement changes as directed.

· Prepare financial, statistical, and other management reports in a timely manner and present them to the Assistant General Manager.

· Develop general accounting and member accounting procedures and implement changes as directed.

· Supervise daily activities of Cooperative Accounting and Financial Services personnel.

· Direct the maintenance and administration of the Cooperative's electronic data processing and management information systems.

· Manage investments and cash flow needs of the Cooperative and coordinate short-term needs with long-term objectives.

· Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and county tax laws and preparation of tax statements required of the Cooperative. Assists management team in establishing and monitoring annual system goals of performance, productivity, and profitability and assists in the review and assessment of Cooperative policies, procedures, and financial performance.

· Provide oversight and direction for record retention and destruction process.

· Review and approve journal entries, accounts payable invoices, payroll processing, cash disbursements, purchase orders, and bank reconciliations.

· Keep personnel under his/her supervision informed of changes in policies and procedures and of appropriate information obtained at Cooperative meetings.

· Oversee all financial management, compliance, and reporting for grant funds, ensuring accurate allocation and adherence to regulations and specific program requirements.

Member Service Duties:

· Formulate the direction and strategy of the Member Service Department.

· Supervise Member Service personnel including assisting in the recruitment, scheduling, training, performance assessment, and/or other requests and needs, as necessary.

· Oversee the accuracy of member records, billing information, cash posting, and rate schedules. Ensure the timely preparation and mailing of billing statements and other member information. Responsible for administrative functions and setup/maintenance of the member database.

· Responsible for the delinquent member processes. Ensure that the appropriate collection procedures are being followed and in the appropriate timeframe. Review and determine approval of members disconnected for non-payment or other course of action in accordance with the Cooperative’s established policies and in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.

· Review and approve billing adjustments made by Member Service Representatives within the limitations set forth in Procedure 505b.

· Responsible for the accuracy and processes of the Month End and Year End CIS database and provide reports to the appropriate personnel.

· Respond to members’ questions regarding account information, requests for service, or any issues or informational needs they may have. Oversee On-Call for billing and collection questions.

· Assist in the proposal, development, and implementation of approved policies and procedures within the Member Service Department.

· Read, understand, and follow all applicable safety rules, regulations, policies, and procedures.

SUPERVISION:

Directly supervises the Accounting and Member Services Departments and carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws. Review the daily operations of the Accounting personnel to ensure quality and quantity of production. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

EDUCATION &/OR EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor’s degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting or related field. Additional courses in advanced or managerial accounting would be beneficial and at least five years of experience in public utility accounting or public accounting, or the equivalent combination of education and experience. Supervisory experience is required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, & REGISTRATIONS:

· Certified Public Accountant (CPA) preferred.

RATE OF PAY:

This position is an exempt, salaried position under the Wage and Hour Law and overtime compensation will not be paid. Pay range - $100,000 to $130,000 DOE.