Accounting Manager Southfield, MI

Position Summary

Provides analysis and interpretation of accounting policies and performs technical research on US GAAP and international GAAP issues. Advises on proper accounting treatment of complex business transactions. Determines compliance with SEC and other governmental (external) reporting requirements. Assists in determination and review of local and cross border pricing and develops consistent pricing processes. Interprets revenue recognition rules and reviews Polk’s global compliance with those rules. Maintains inventory of significant contracts including summarization of key clauses. Manages the statutory audit process for international subsidiaries. Reviews the reconciliation of international books to US GAAP to ensure statutory accounts agree to Polk’s general ledger.

Primary Responsibilities

• Responsible for researching and interpreting existing and new accounting standards and policies. Analyzes impact of changes on R. L. Polk & Co. financial statements. Overall responsibility for preparation of new policies and administration of compliance with policies.
• Reviews complex business transactions and advises Controller and CFO as to proper accounting treatment in the financial statements.
• Participates in the design of a standard, consistent monthly reporting package to ensure the appropriate information is gathered to ensure compliance with US GAAP. Reviews monthly submissions and ensure compliance with accounting policies.
• Reviews monthly financial statement book.
• Manages the monthly financial reporting package including continuous improvements in content and efficiency.
• Works in conjunction with business analysts, accounting and department heads in the analysis and reporting of expenses to ensure accurate and consistent financial information. Includes preparation and distribution of multiple level of operating reports.
• Ensures that all external reporting procedures are in compliance with SEC, US GAAP and international GAAP reporting rules and policies.
• Works in conjunction with the Internal Reporting team in the preparation of annual external financial statements and the external audit process including the preparation of new footnotes or analysis.
• Manages the international statutory audit process for Polk subsidiaries. Ensures subsidiaries local accounting records agree to Polk consolidated financial records.
• Analyzes records of present and past operations, trends and transactions and advises management of potential or existing accounting issues.
• Reviews and verifies the accuracy of selected journal entries and accounting classifications assigned to various records.
• Develops processes for inter-company transactions, including efficiency improvemens and consistency in the flow of transactions. Reviews recording of inter-Company transactions and verifies the accuracy of the accounting for these transactions including the process for foreign currency exchange and compliance with transfer pricing policies.
• Assists in preparation of presentations for Board of Director meetings and other executive meetings.
• Prepares and maintains key contracts and summary of key provisions of the contracts. Ensures compliance with accounting policies and GAAP reporting rules for these contracts.

Secondary Responsibilities

• Manages special reporting projects as required.
• Performs other duties as requested by management.

Relationships/Contacts

Interacts with management and employees internally locally and internationally and with consultants and vendors.

Leadership/Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting with minimum five years experience.
• At least three years experience in areas specifically relevant to technical accounting knowledge.
• Two year’s relevant financial reporting experience including demonstrated knowledge in development and use of financial reporting systems.
• Prefer a graduate degree in business, finance or accounting and/or CPA.
• Exceptional written, verbal and presentation skills are necessary to effectively convey goals, initiatives and financial information to staff, management and Board of Directors.
• Experience with external audit processes in the US required.
• Experience in international statutory audit processes desired.
• Experience with pricing analysis desired.
• Experience with complex revenue recognition issues required.
• Experience preparing written reports.
• Demonstrated ability to perform research and analyze figures, data, trends and results of all kinds.
• Advanced PC skills, such as Excel and Word.
• Ability to inform, educate and influence managers to support company goals and objectives.


Other Requirements

Infrequent travel to other Polk locations, including international travel.

Working Conditions

Normal office environment


The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, qualifications, or working conditions.


R. L. Polk & Co. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will be considered without regard to race, citizenship, creed, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, physical or mental disabilities, sexual orientation or veteran status. Further, R. L. Polk & Co. provides reasonable accommodation upon request, in accordance with State and Federal laws.