Title:                          Accounting Assistant

Reports to:             Director, Accounting and Controller

Job Summary:

The Accounting Assistant will be a valued member of the Finance and Accounting team that serves as the leading source of trusted strategic advice to The Heritage Foundation.  In order to help promulgate the Foundation’s Vision and Mission, the Finance and Accounting team is responsible for providing exceptional financial leadership and informed guidance to the Organization as a whole. The Accounting Assistant is fully committed to vigorously implementing the mission, objectives, and goals of the Finance and Accounting team as well as being a catalyst for maintaining a high-intensity, high-performance culture. The Assistant is expected to work closely with the Vice President and the Director, acting as an advisor and holder of confidential information as well as maintaining various administrative activities. Working closely with the Senior Accountant and Senior Staff, the Assistant will be responsible for various accounts payable functions as well as tasks that support the monthly close process and preparation of financial reports.

Job Duties:

• Committed to creating a high-performance, results-driven culture. Dedicated to getting the job done and willingness to work hours required
• Administrative support for the Vice President including scheduling, travel arrangements, correspondence, special projects, contacts and calendars
• Assist Finance and Accounting team in preparation of financial reports
• Assist with invoice processing, vendor database maintenance, and vendor document compliance procedures
• Assist with processing of incoming cash receipts
• Support the monthly close process, including reconciliations, recurring journal entries, and General Ledger moves for multiple entities
• Administer American Express corporate card programs, including on and off-boarding procedures, monitoring, reporting, and troubleshooting issues
• Assist with maintenance of corporate travel program and enforcing compliance with the Travel & Expenses Reimbursement Policy
• Scanning, filing, and organizing documents
• Assist with customer service support to Heritage staff, including but not limited to: training on various accounting invoice, expense, and travel systems; responding to expense and invoice inquiries; and facilitating special arrangements or rush handling requests

Skill Factors:

Education:       Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field preferred

Experience:     Accounts payable or general accounting experience preferred.  Must possess a clear understanding of core accounting principles and can apply those principles in new and evolving situations

Computer:       Working knowledge of accounting software systems and MS Office including Excel, Word and PowerPoint

Special Skills/Requirements:

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, general audit routines and processes
• Proven ability to work independently while meeting deadlines, multi-tasking, and strong attention to detail
• Effective communication skills, dedication to superior customer service to internal staff, and the ability to promote a positive, collaborative atmosphere
• Understand and support the Heritage mission and vision for America, and the team’s goals and objectives
• Trustworthy and discreet