Accounting Manager

ABOUT JAPAN SOCIETY

Japan Society is the premier organization connecting Japanese arts, culture, business, and society with audiences in New York and around the world. At Japan Society, we are inspired by the Japanese concept of kizuna(絆)—forging deep connections to bind people together. We are committed to telling the story of Japan while strengthening connections within New York City and building new bridges beyond. In over 100 years of work, we’ve inspired generations by establishing ourselves as pioneers in supporting international exchanges in arts and culture, business and policy, as well as education between Japan and the U.S.

POSITION SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly analytical, hands-on Accounting Manager to serve as the operational hub for our Finance team. Reporting directly to the Finance Controller, this role is designed for a driven nonprofit accounting professional who thrives at both the transactional level and in high-level reporting. You will be responsible for ensuring the absolute integrity of our general ledger, supervising the accounts receivable architecture, and acting as the primary liaison for our investment portfolio reporting.

If you possess a demand for radical clarity, accuracy, and strong internal controls, this is an opportunity to drive the financial operations of a legacy New York institution.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

General Ledger & Revenue Operations

• Supervise and manage the full-cycle accounts receivable process, ensuring all incoming funds (grants, donations, program fees) are accurately processed and reconciled.
• Maintain the chart of accounts, generate new G/L accounts and project codes, and ensure the structural integrity of all recorded transactions.
• Execute complex monthly reconciliations for all bank accounts (including USD and YEN), balance sheet accounts, and restricted funding ledgers.
• Prepare and post critical monthly journal entries related to bank activity, investment activity, and other adjustments.

Investment & Liquidity Management

• Oversee the reporting, tracking, and reconciliation of the organization's investment portfolio.
• Serve as the primary liaison with fund managers and our Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO).
• Generate monthly investment performance and private equity tracking reports for the Controller and CFO.
• Direct all cash management protocols, including bank deposits, cash box and petty cash reconciliations, and initiating outgoing bank wires.

Audit, Reporting & Compliance

• Partner with the Controller to prepare internal financial statements for cross-functional program departments.
• Ensure rigorous internal controls and strict compliance with nonprofit accounting standards.
• Manage quarterly NYS sales tax filings and assist with annual 1042s preparation.
• Provide administrative support and assist the Controller and CFO with special projects as required.

REQUIREMENTS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a highly related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, with mandatory formal experience in the nonprofit sector. At least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory capacity is highly preferred.
• High proficiency in accounting software (MIP preferred) and CRM architecture (Raiser's Edge preferred). Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are essential.
• Proven track record of managing and reconciling organizational investment portfolio reports. Strong experience navigating internal controls and participating in financial audits is required.
• Must possess full legal authorization to work in the United States. Japan Society cannot provide sponsorship for this role.
• The ideal candidate will be able to fully operate on a hybrid schedule out of our landmarked New York City headquarters. Staff are in-office Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and work remotely on Mondays and Fridays (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM).

Japan Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes a diverse workforce.

Japan Society provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a matched 403(b) retirement plan, and highly competitive paid time off. In addition, our team enjoys year-round free, reduced, and exclusive access to Japan Society's world-class arts and cultural programming.