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General information

Location
Cambridge, MA
Ref #
42261
Job Family
Finance
Workplace
Hybrid
Date published
08-May-2025
Time Type
Full time

Description & Requirements

The mission of the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is to transform medicine by dramatically accelerating the understanding and treatment of disease. The Broad creates a vibrant research environment with close links to top academic institutions including Harvard, MIT and the Harvard hospitals.

We are seeking a Senior Accountant who will be responsible for ensuring that financial activities are accurately recorded and transactions are properly reflected in the general ledger and financial statements. Reporting to the Assistant Controller, this position will work closely with all finance staff to oversee systems, controls, transactions, processes, and activities to ensure compliance with GAAP, federal sponsored research policies, and Institute policies.

This role will also take ownership of key functions, such as recording and tracking gifts and pledges, and will serve as the primary liaison between Finance and the Development team, ensuring timely communication and accurate financial reporting of fundraising efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Process Improvement: Identify, propose, and implement potential improvements to financial and operational processes to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
Revenue Recognition: Assist in the review of contracts for proper revenue recognition treatment in accordance with ASC 606, ensuring compliance with applicable accounting standards.
Reconciliation & Discrepancies: Perform balance sheet account reconciliations, resolve reconciling items and errors, and address financial discrepancies promptly and effectively.
Month-End Close: Participate in key areas of the month-end close process, including the preparation of account reconciliations and journal entries in accordance with GAAP and Institute policy. Key areas include accounting for gifts and pledges, account reconciliations and accruals, and assisting in the preparation of financial statements, financial reporting package, and supporting work-papers.
Gift and Pledge Accounting: Record and track gifts and pledges, ensuring accuracy in financial records. Work closely with Development and the Office of Sponsored Research to reconcile fundraising records with financial statements and support accurate reporting.
Development Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for the Development team, collaborating on financial matters related to gifts, pledges, and fundraising initiatives. Provide training and support to Development staff as needed on financial processes.
Audit Support: Provide support for external audits, including preparation of schedules, reconciliations, and responding to auditor requests.
System Implementation: Assist in the implementation and/or optimization of ERP systems, ensuring alignment with Institute goals and compliance requirements.
Ownership & Accountability: Take ownership of assigned areas, preparing and reviewing journal entries, reconciliations, and audit requests. Proactively communicate the status of assignments and ensure deadlines are met.
Reporting: Contribute to financial reporting initiatives, including creating and enhancing reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field.
  • Minimum 3 years of public accounting and/or private industry experience, preferably in a not for profit research organization.
  • Strong understanding of GAAP and experience with financial reporting, reconciliations, and revenue recognition (ASC 606).
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience with fundraising or Development processes is highly desirable.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Proficiency in ERP systems (experience with Oracle, SAP, or similar systems preferred).
  • This position is integral to maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the Institute's financial records while supporting broader organizational goals related to fundraising and development.
  • This position has a hybrid work schedule, allowing for in office collaboration as well as flexibility with work from home days weekly.
The Broad Institute will not offer visa sponsorship for this opportunity.