Job Description

Role Title: Project Accountant

Community of Practice: Finance
Location: LONDON
SOM, one of the most influential design firms in the world, is seeking innovative, creative, independent, and critical thinkers who aspire to the highest standards of excellence. Join our collaborative design practice as an Project Accountant for the opportunity to build a strong and thriving career.
Position ResponsibilitiesFully responsible for the proper accounting and financial presentation of assigned projects in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Modified Cash Basis of Accounting, SOM policies and procedures. Ensures that appropriate internal controls are in place to protect the firm's assets and generates an appropriate return on assigned projects, ensures appropriate financial management techniques, tools and resources are utilized in order to achieve or exceed the project's stated financial goals. Assists in fee and expense analysis. Reviews contracts from a financial perspective and advises Partners, Project Managers and Central of any unique Firmwide matters, such as foreign currency, taxation or other financial exposures. Participates in compliance meetings with the team and reviews the completed compliance form with the Project Manager. Designs or assists in the design of the project numbering scheme in accordance with SOM standards. Takes responsibility for gathering information and setting up a project for all disciplines as well as providing all qualitative data (functional market, geographical market, etc.) Reviews and analyzes the financial condition of each project (accrual and cash) on a monthly basis and advises the Project Manager, Financial Controller as to any material variances. Reviews weekly financial reports and brings any significant issues to the attention of the Project Manager. Alerts the Financial Controller regarding any internal control problems or questionable practices. Assists in identifying the need for additional services and assists in the preparation of the project plan including a profitability analysis and reviews such plan and analysis with PM. Updates PM on labor status during regular meetings. Maintains "open door" policy by ensuring availability to PM and project teams for any questions regarding where to charge time, project plan allocations, status of hours spent. Reviews preliminary invoices for appropriate labor, expense charges, billing rates, fees maximums and makes appropriate changes and reclassifications. Updates outstanding receivable statements, billing summaries and consultant summaries that are for client's use. Interacts with Client's accounting department counterpart regarding outstanding invoices, billing schedules, invoice approvals and ultimate collection; Client regarding status and analysis of consultants' invoicing; Consultants regarding accounts payable and invoices. Accounting colleagues within all SOM office locations to coordinate multi-discipline/multi-office projects. Assists with other tasks and responsibilities as may be required.

Leadership ResponsibilitiesInspires and leads others by example, participates in staff mentoring and training, clearly defines team member expectations and responsibilities, empowers others, and delegates where appropriate based on team members' recognized abilities and potential. In collaboration with team members, contributes to a clear and consistent work plan to achieve the project budget, deliverables, and schedule. Actively engages in internal professional development opportunities. Contributes to the implementation of sustainable strategies in all project assignments and the associated development of staff knowledge. Contributes to the development of standards, policies, and procedures. Protects SOM from financial and legal risk.

Required Skills and ExperienceDegree in Accounting/Business Administration or comparable experience. 4 years+ Project or Job Costing experience. Experience within the Architecture, Engineering or Construction industries. Hands-on, especially in terms of billing, project accounting and contract review. Ability to prioritize, organize work flows and juggling conflicting demands. Exceptional communication skills (written and oral). Ability to interface with project managers, clients and architects. Experience with Microsoft Office including but not limited to Microsoft Excel. Experience with Deltek Vision software is a plus.

SOM offers opportunities to work on transformational projects, competitive salaries, health insurance, wellness, retirement and financial and other work/life plans.At SOM, we welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace. We believe an inclusive environment benefits our employees, our firm, and our community, while also enriching and challenging our own thinking about design. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Visit this page to learn more about SOM's employment policy and how to apply offline: www.som.com/employment_opportunities_and_policy
For more about SOM: www.som.com
Portfolios must be submitted for all design positions (Architecture, Interiors, Planning, etc). Applications without work samples will not be reviewed. Portfolios should be one PDF attachment, 10-20 pages, maximum 5 MB. Submit portfolios as part of your application in the section where the application asks you for your Resume or CV.