Sr. Accounting Analyst - job 19 of 23

The Sr. Accounting Analyst at Visa is responsible for a variety of critical accounting activities including month-end close processes, in-depth flux analysis, and the resolution of technical accounting issues. This role involves analyzing financial transactions, ensuring compliance with US GAAP, conducting complex account reconciliations, and maintaining process documentation for SOX 404 compliance. Additionally, you'll take ownership of specific components of the North America financial statements and work collaboratively with various management levels and audit teams.

To become a Sr. Accounting Analyst at Visa, you should possess a strong understanding of US GAAP and have experience working in accounting roles with responsibilities in month-end close processes. A bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as CPA or CMA preferred. Additionally, strong analytical skills, the ability to work cross-functionally, and effective communication skills are essential for success in this position.

In the role of Sr. Accounting Analyst at Visa, compliance with US GAAP is ensured through meticulous review of financial transactions, proper documentation of accounting procedures, and ongoing interpretation of accounting guidance. The analyst is required to research and provide sound conclusions on various accounting issues by referencing appropriate US GAAP pronouncements. This includes reviewing contracts for compliance and applying revenue recognition principles (ASC 606) accurately.

A Sr. Accounting Analyst at Visa will have the opportunity to participate in various special projects that are designed to enhance efficiency in financial operations, mitigate financial risks, and improve compliance processes. This includes collaborating with cross-functional teams, managing queries and issues from key stakeholders, and contributing to initiatives aimed at streamlining the accounting workflow or introducing new financial reporting technologies.

The work environment for a Sr. Accounting Analyst at Visa is dynamic and collaborative, as this role is part of the North American Controllership team. The position is hybrid, allowing flexibility in a mix of in-office and remote work. This setup promotes teamwork and interaction with various levels of management within and outside of Finance, creating a culture where creativity and efficiency in accounting practices are heavily encouraged.

When discussing your experience with US GAAP, focus on specific examples where you've applied GAAP principles in your previous roles. Highlight your understanding of different accounting regulations and how you have ensured compliance in your work, perhaps during audits or while preparing financial reports.

In answering this question, emphasize your systematic approach to the month-end close process. Discuss your familiarity with completing reconciliations, journal entries, and analytical reviews, and provide examples of how you've streamlined or improved the month-end close in previous jobs.

To effectively answer this question, outline the specific processes you use for flux analysis, including how you identify variances between periods. Provide an example of a significant finding you discovered through flux analysis and how it impacted financial reporting or decision making.

Share a concrete example that illustrates your problem-solving skills in accounting. Focus on the steps you took to understand the problem, the research you conducted, and the final decision made, ensuring to highlight the positive outcome derived from your efforts.

In your response, discuss the importance of attention to detail and utilizing checklists or software tools to minimize errors. Sharing a method you’ve implemented to verify the accuracy of reports or an experience where you caught an error could really enhance your answer.

Provide details about your hands-on experience with account reconciliations, mentioning the types of accounts you’ve reconciled and the methods you've used. Highlight the tools or software you’re familiar with and how you've assured the integrity of account balances.

Share strategies you use to manage your time effectively, such as prioritizing tasks, utilizing collaborative tools for communication, or how you may delegate responsibilities when necessary to meet those deadlines successfully.

When answering this question, mention any financial reporting tools you’ve used and outline your process for preparing quarterly and annual reports. Describe how you ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and the feedback you’ve received from stakeholders on your reports.

Reflect on current trends in accounting, such as technology advancements or regulatory changes, and analyze how they impact the accounting profession. This shows your awareness of industry challenges and readiness to adapt.

Discuss the resources you utilize to keep abreast of changes in accounting standards, such as attending webinars, subscribing to accounting journals, or participating in professional organizations. This shows your commitment to professional development.