Accounting Services Manager

Position: Accounting Services Manager About Ranta CPA + Associates Ranta CPA + Associates is seeking an experienced Accounting Services Manager to lead and develop our business accounting services team. This is a leadership-focused role designed for a seasoned professional who excels at building teams, driving operational excellence, and contributing to firm strategy. Our firm is located in Lower Queen Anne, Seattle, Washington (USA). We serve both individuals and closely held businesses throughout the Pacific Northwest and United States, with particular focus on real estate, technology, hospitality, and professional services clients. Our firm operates two primary departments: tax and business accounting services. Role Overview This position leads the business accounting services department, overseeing a team of accountants who manage recurring and full-service accounting engagements for our diverse client base. The Accounting Services Manager is responsible for team leadership, operational workflows, quality assurance, compliance oversight, and strategic growth initiatives. This is primarily an internal management role with minimal direct client accounting work. The team members (staff accountants) will handle the operational accounting tasks (bank reconciliations, AR/AP, tax filings, payroll administration, etc.) while you focus on leadership, process improvement, client relationship oversight, and business development. Key Responsibilities Team Leadership & Development Lead, mentor, and develop a team of accounting staff; conduct regular one-on-one feedback sessions and establish clear career development plans for each team member Run weekly team meetings to establish service standards, align on goals, and build a positive, professional team culture Provide thorough feedback and coaching on work quality, compliance, and professional growth Foster a collaborative environment that attracts and retains top talent Work with the firm's partners to ensure consistent vision, practices, and procedures are implemented Process & Quality Ownership Own the design and maintenance of team processes, procedures, templates, and internal service controls Review all team work output, including state and local compliance filings, to ensure accuracy and adherence to firm standards Establish and manage task management systems and deadline trackers to ensure timely delivery Monitor and review monthly timesheets, reconcile against client budgets, and manage workload allocation Client Administration & Oversight Oversee new client setup and existing client administration, recurring billing cycles, and scope of work tracking Review and manage scope creep; communicate with clients regarding service adjustments as needed Serve as the primary point of contact for operational client questions or concerns Ensure consistent, professional client communication and service delivery Departmental Financial Responsibility Manage the business accounting services department finances, including recurring monthly/annual revenue forecasting, labor cost optimization, and software stack management Monitor profitability by service line and client; identify efficiency opportunities Evaluate and implement software tools and process improvements that enhance both client experience and internal operations Growth & Strategic Contribution Understand and help refine the firm's client niches within business accounting services Participate in business development activities; meet with prospective clients to evaluate fit and build relationships Contribute to firm-level strategy and vision; engage in partnership-level discussions about growth and direction Attend relevant industry conferences and continuing education to stay current on best practices Continuously evaluate our software stack and identify process improvements that strengthen client experience and operational efficiency Qualifications 7+ years of accounting experience (GL accounting, AR/AP, bookkeeping, or public/private accounting) 2+ years of direct supervisory or management experience; demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and evaluate team members Strong knowledge of business accounting, bookkeeping, and operations management Proficiency with accounting software platforms (QuickBooks Online/Desktop, Xero, Gusto, or similar systems), particularly cloud-based systems Experience managing and optimizing workflows, processes, and procedures Understanding of tax compliance and regulatory requirements for state/local filings, particularly WA state B&O and payroll taxes Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact professionally with clients, staff, and stakeholders Comfort with financial analysis and budget management Strategic mindset with interest in contributing to firm growth and vision Positive, collaborative work style; ability to balance high standards with team development and client service CPA designation or active progress toward CPA certification preferred Who We're Looking For Above all, we seek a thoughtful leader who: Takes ownership of team and process improvements with initiative and follow-through Balances operational rigor with people-first management Communicates clearly and handles difficult conversations with professionalism and kindness Thinks strategically about growth, efficiency, and the client experience Is genuinely interested in the long-term success and direction of our firm Enjoys mentoring others and seeing team members grow into their potential Compensation & Benefits Compensation is based on experience, qualifications/certifications, and education 4% company-matching 401(k) Medical and dental benefits with HSA eligibility Full-time position (minimum 40 hours/week) In-person work in our Seattle office; remote options available to team members with proven self-management and operational independence Work Environment This is a hybrid position based in our Seattle office – we would prefer someone in the Puget Sound region who can be in-office approximately 3 days per week. Remote work flexibility is available to team members with a track record of self-sufficiency and strong task management. Next Steps If you are interested in joining our team, please respond to this ad with your resume, a brief cover letter outlining your management philosophy and experience, and answers to the included skills assessment. We encourage you to visit ranta-cpa.com to learn more about our firm, team, and the services we provide. We look forward to hearing from you. Ranta CPA + Associates Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $140,000.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Application Question(s): Please list the accounting software(s) you've used and your level of skill acquired. Education: Associate (Preferred) Experience: Management: 2 years (Required) Accounting: 5 years (Required) Language: English (Required) License/Certification: CPA (Preferred) Work Location: Hybrid remote in Seattle, WA 98119