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Accounting Manager

Company Description

Our Mission

At Palo Alto Networks® everything starts and ends with our mission:

Being the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life.

Our vision is a world where each day is safer and more secure than the one before. We are a company built on the foundation of challenging and disrupting the way things are done, and we’re looking for innovators who are as committed to shaping the future of cybersecurity as we are.

Who We Are

We take our mission of protecting the digital way of life seriously. We are relentless in protecting our customers and we believe that the unique ideas of every member of our team contributes to our collective success. Our values were crowdsourced by employees and are brought to life through each of us everyday - from disruptive innovation and collaboration, to execution. From showing up for each other with integrity to creating an environment where we all feel included.  

As a member of our team, you will be shaping the future of cybersecurity. We work fast, value ongoing learning, and we respect each employee as a unique individual. Knowing we all have different needs, our development and personal wellbeing programs are designed to give you choice in how you are supported. This includes our FLEXBenefits wellbeing spending account with over 1,000 eligible items selected by employees, our mental and financial health resources, and our personalized learning opportunities - just to name a few! 

At Palo Alto Networks, we believe in the power of collaboration and value in-person interactions. This is why our employees generally work full time from our office with flexibility offered where needed. This setup fosters casual conversations, problem-solving, and trusted relationships. Our goal is to create an environment where we all win with precision. 

Job Description

Your Career

Become a vital member of our accounting organization at Palo Alto Networks! We are seeking a highly motivated and collaborative Accounts Receivable Accounting Manager to lead a critical function in our global accounting organization. This role focuses on optimizing AR-related general ledger processes, driving process improvement, and delivering high-impact projects.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, possesses strong critical thinking skills, and excels in communication and collaboration. This role involves partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance while contributing to strategic process optimization.

If you have a passion for numbers and solving meaningful financial challenges while working for a company with a global mission in cybersecurity, this is the perfect role for you!

Your Impact

  • Leadership & Team Management
    • Supervise the daily operations of AR accounting, including month-end close activities and reconciliations
    • Provide guidance to the Global AR Accounting team, fostering a collaborative team environment through coaching, development, and goal alignment
    • Motivate and lead the team to achieve excellence in accounting results
  • Financial Reporting & Analysis
    • Ensure timely and accurate reporting of AR-related accounts and reconciliations
    • Conduct bad debt and CECL analyses, collaborating with Credit and Collections teams to assess customer risk
    • Perform flux analyses to monitor financial trends and identify anomalies
  • Compliance & Internal Controls
    • Ensure compliance with SOX 404 and GAAP standards
    • Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and analysis
    • Develop and enforce effective accounting policies and controls to safeguard company assets
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration
    • Partner with billing, credit, and collections teams to ensure AR balances are accurate and complete
    • Collaborate with IT and finance teams to streamline processes and optimize data alignment
  • Strategic Process Improvement
    • Analyze current processes and implement future-state workflows to improve scalability and efficiency
    • Lead finance-related projects, breaking down complex initiatives into actionable steps
  • Documentation & Deliverables
    • Prepare clear business case memos, decision documents, and executive presentations to support informed decision-making

Qualifications

Your Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or equivalent preferred) or equivalent military experience 
  • 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership roles in AR or GL functions
  • Experience with operational or SAP systems (AR module a plus)
  • Skilled in writing technical accounting memos and assessing end-to-end processes
  • Strong leadership, collaboration, and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities
  • Self-starter with a proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
  • Global leadership experience managing diverse teams is a strong plus

Additional Information

The Team

The Global Accounting Team ensures our processes align with regulatory standards while supporting operational efficiency. By partnering closely with legal, finance, IT, and business teams, we safeguard the company’s compliance and financial health. Our team's expertise drives operational excellence and sustainable growth for the organization.

Compensation Disclosure

The compensation offered for this position will depend on qualifications, experience, and work location. For candidates who receive an offer at the posted level, the starting base salary (for non-sales roles) or base salary + commission target (for sales/commissioned roles) is expected to be between $118000 - $191500/YR. The offered compensation may also include restricted stock units and a bonus. A description of our employee benefits may be found here.

Our Commitment

We’re problem solvers that take risks and challenge cybersecurity’s status quo. It’s simple: we can’t accomplish our mission without diverse teams innovating, together.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for all qualified individuals with a disability. If you require assistance or accommodation due to a disability or special need, please contact us at  [email protected].

Palo Alto Networks is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity in our workplace, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or other legally protected characteristics.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Average salary estimate

$154750 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$118000K
$191500K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Accounting Manager, Palo Alto Networks

Welcome to Palo Alto Networks, where we are on a mission to revolutionize cybersecurity and provide a safer digital world. We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled Accounting Manager to join our dynamic team in Plano, TX. In this pivotal role, you will lead our Accounts Receivable team and play a key part in optimizing our accounting processes while driving high-impact projects that contribute to our global mission. As an Accounting Manager, your days will be filled with supervising daily operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. You'll rely on your critical thinking and communication skills to guide your team through month-end close activities, helping them excel in their roles and fostering a collaborative environment. We value innovative ideas and proactive leadership, so if you have a knack for numbers and a passion for solving financial challenges, this is the opportunity for you! Our team is committed to continuous improvement, and you will have the chance to analyze processes, implement workflow enhancements, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Plus, you will have the ability to prepare insightful business cases and executive presentations that drive decision-making in our organization. If you're ready to take your career to the next level while contributing to something meaningful, consider joining Palo Alto Networks as our Accounting Manager. We can't wait to see the unique contributions you will bring to our team and our mission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Accounting Manager Role at Palo Alto Networks
What are the main responsibilities of the Accounting Manager at Palo Alto Networks?

As an Accounting Manager at Palo Alto Networks, you will oversee the daily operations of the Accounts Receivable team, ensuring timely and accurate reporting of AR-related accounts. Additionally, you will lead the month-end close activities, perform reconciliations, and conduct financial analyses, including bad debt and CECL assessments to monitor customer risks.

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What qualifications are needed to become an Accounting Manager at Palo Alto Networks?

To qualify for the Accounting Manager position at Palo Alto Networks, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, ideally complemented by a CPA or equivalent experience. Additionally, at least 5 years of progressive accounting experience, especially in AR or GL functions, and strong leadership and communication skills are essential for this role.

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How does the Accounting Manager contribute to compliance at Palo Alto Networks?

The Accounting Manager plays a critical role in ensuring compliance with SOX 404 and GAAP standards at Palo Alto Networks. You will develop and enforce effective accounting policies, provide necessary documentation for internal and external audits, and collaborate with IT and finance teams to safeguard the organization’s financial health.

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What is the work environment like for the Accounting Manager at Palo Alto Networks?

At Palo Alto Networks, the work environment for the Accounting Manager is collaborative and fast-paced, emphasizing in-person interactions and casual conversations. The company values employee contributions, providing a supportive environment conducive to innovation and teamwork, ensuring everyone can thrive in their roles.

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What opportunities for growth exist for the Accounting Manager role at Palo Alto Networks?

As an Accounting Manager at Palo Alto Networks, you will have ample opportunities for professional growth through personalized learning programs, mentorship, and hands-on management experience. The role also allows you to lead strategic projects that can significantly impact the organization while offering a pathway to advance within the global accounting team.

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Common Interview Questions for Accounting Manager
What experience do you have in managing accounts receivable?

When answering this question, highlight specific experiences where you led accounts receivable functions, detailing your contributions to process improvements, team management, and financial reporting accuracy. Use quantifiable metrics to showcase your impact.

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How do you ensure accuracy in financial reporting?

To ensure accuracy in financial reporting, I implement stringent review processes, utilize technology for automation, and foster collaboration with cross-functional teams to validate data. Providing examples of how you have improved reporting accuracy can be beneficial.

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Could you describe your approach to leading and developing a team?

Discuss your leadership style, emphasizing collaboration, mentorship, and goal alignment. Include examples of how you’ve successfully developed team members, fostering a culture of excellence and motivation in achieving accounting results.

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What steps would you take to improve our AR processes?

Talk about techniques such as process mapping, stakeholder engagement, and implementing technology solutions. Share your analytical approach and past experiences that led to enhanced efficiency in AR workflows.

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Can you explain an accounting principle you find particularly important?

Choose a principle like GAAP or accrual accounting, explaining its significance and how you have applied it in past roles. Discuss instances where adherence to this principle benefitted the organization.

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What strategies do you utilize for risk assessment in accounts receivable?

Describe specific strategies such as conducting thorough credit assessments, regular monitoring of outstanding balances, and utilizing predictive analytics to gauge customer risk. Sharing examples of successful risk management can reinforce your answer.

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How do you handle conflicting priorities in a fast-paced environment?

Explain your prioritization methodology, such as using tracking tools or establishing clear communication with stakeholders. Share examples of successful conflict resolution while maintaining workflow and productivity.

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What do you consider to be your biggest achievement in your accounting career?

Choose an achievement that demonstrates your leadership, analytical skills, or ability to drive results. Provide context about the challenge, your actions, and the impact it had on the organization.

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How do you ensure compliance with accounting standards?

Discuss your approach to staying updated with accounting standards and regulations, including continuous professional education, participation in relevant forums, and collaboration with compliance teams.

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Why do you want to work at Palo Alto Networks specifically?

Share your enthusiasm for the company’s mission in cybersecurity and its culture. Relate your career goals to the opportunities available at Palo Alto Networks, highlighting your desire to be part of a team that innovates and challenges the status quo.

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Being the cybersecurity partner of choice, protecting our digital way of life.

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Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
December 20, 2024

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