Senior Associate, Corporate Accounting

As a Senior Associate in Corporate Accounting at Harrison Street, your main responsibilities will include assisting in the monthly and quarterly financial statement close for a globally consolidated company. You’ll prepare journal entries, manage bank reconciliations, and prepare balance sheet reconciliations, all while adhering to Sarbanes-Oxley compliance. Your role will also involve collaboration with team members from tax, fund accounting, and portfolio management to ensure accurate financial reporting.

To succeed in the Senior Associate position at Harrison Street, applicants should ideally hold a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance. A CPA license is preferred, alongside at least three years of relevant experience, especially from a big four accounting firm. Strong technical knowledge of US GAAP and experience with Sarbanes-Oxley is beneficial, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office and data analytic tools.

Harrison Street actively supports the career growth of its Senior Associates in Corporate Accounting through professional development opportunities, ongoing training, and a collaborative work environment. We believe in empowering our employees to take ownership of their roles, approach challenges creatively, and leverage their skills to advance within the firm while working with a talented team committed to excellence.

The salary range for the Senior Associate role at Harrison Street is between $120,000 and $165,000 per year. This competitive compensation is determined based on various factors, including the candidate’s prior experience, qualifications, and education. Additionally, we offer comprehensive benefits, including employer-paid medical coverage, 401K, and wellness stipends.

At Harrison Street, the work environment is inclusive, dynamic, and team-oriented. As a Senior Associate, you’ll collaborate with various teams and contribute to key financial processes, ensuring a collaborative spirit as you navigate the fast-paced world of corporate accounting. We celebrate diversity and believe in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.

In answering this question, provide specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully contributed to the financial statement closing process. Highlight your ability to manage deadlines, ensure accuracy, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver timely results.

Discuss your knowledge and approach to Sarbanes-Oxley compliance by emphasizing your understanding of controls and regulations. Provide examples of how you've identified risks and implemented processes to ensure adherence to these standards in prior roles.

Mention the specific accounting software tools and data analytic programs you have used in your previous positions. Explain how they enhance your ability to prepare financial statements efficiently, perform reconciliations, and generate accurate reports.

When addressing this question, share a particular instance where you encountered a complex accounting issue. Focus on the steps you took to analyze the problem, the solutions you implemented, and what you learned from that experience to help you growing as a Senior Associate.

In your response, illustrate your time management strategies and your ability to prioritize tasks effectively under pressure. Provide an example of a deadline scenario and how you ensured all deliverables were met without compromising quality.

Here, explain your understanding of the fund chargeback process, detailing how it integrates with the accounting and portfolio management teams. Share any experiences you’ve had managing approvals and ensuring timely collection from funds.

Convey the importance of analytical skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication. Discuss how these abilities have played a vital role in your past successes and how you plan to apply them at Harrison Street.

Address your inclination to continue education and professional development in accounting. Share resources you use, such as online courses, webinars, professional networks, or compliance updates that keep you informed about regulatory changes.

Highlight your proactive communication skills and your experience working closely with auditors. Provide an example of how you prepared for an audit, ensuring that all documentation and processes were readily available and adhered to compliance standards.

In your answer, reflect on your passion for the field of accounting, emphasizing how contributing to financial integrity and business success drives you. Discuss any personal or professional experiences that deepen this motivation.