The Office of Finance is responsible for all accounting, banking, payroll, budget, internal control, treasury, tax, audit and financial reporting for the Foundation. The Office is also responsible for maintaining the financial enterprise systems and end user support training. The department is comprised of a staff of about 12 finance and accounting professionals.
The Senior Tax Accountant is primarily responsible for analyzing financial information in performing day-to-day accounting and tax functions. They are also responsible for gaining a thorough understanding of accounting and tax matters affecting the Foundation to ensure proper planning, compliance, research, tracking, analysis, and reporting.
Job Description
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Strong commitment to the Foundation's vision and values with the ability to demonstrate that commitment in daily interactions.
Participates in analysis of accounting and tax issues as they arise. In conjunction with external advisors, research new and pending updates and regulations as well as assesses impact and resulting reporting requirements.
Provides technical expertise, reviewing and recommending procedures for compliance with financial reporting standards as well as international, federal, state, and local tax regulations.
Responsible for documenting accounting and tax positions and implementing processes and procedures.
Prepares general ledger entries, analysis and reconciliations as assigned to ensure data accuracy and integrity.
Assists with monthly, quarterly, and yearly close process.
Assists with preparation for the annual audit.
Fulfills accounting, audit and tax information requests.
Prepares accounting and tax schedules, reconciliations and journal entries related to Forms 990-PF for internal and external review.
Assists in the preparation of the Form 990-PF for internal and external review.
Assists with tax and payout forecasts as well as preparation of quarterly tax estimates and tax return extensions.
Responsible for the collection and follow up on federal and state Schedule K-1’s, foreign reporting forms and all other relevant tax related information and forms.
Assists in the review of externally prepared foreign reporting forms prior to filing.
Develops collaborative relationships with external audit and tax advisors and demonstrates partnership with internal departments.
Develops processes and procedures as necessary to ensure accuracy and maintain proper internal controls. Identifies and implements opportunities for operational improvements in the accounting, audit, and tax preparation processes.
Assists with special projects as needed.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in accounting required; Master’s degree or CPA preferred
Five years of tax experience with partnerships and two years of public accounting experience preferred.
Knowledge of federal and international exempt organization tax issues. Private foundation and audit experience a plus.
Excellent analytical, writing, verbal, and social communication skills.
Proven organizational and planning skills with excellent diligence.
Ability to multi-task, establish priorities and organize efficiently.
The position is based in Chicago, Illinois.
Annual salary for this for role will start at $105,000.
Physical Requirements and Work Environment:
The work environment is an office setting. Intermittent physical activities will include bending, reaching, sitting, and walking during working hours. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable a person with physical disabilities to perform the job.
About John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation supports creative people, effective institutions, and influential networks building a more just, verdant, and peaceful world. MacArthur is placing a few big bets that truly significant progress is possible on some of the world’s most pressing social challenges, including advancing global climate solutions, decreasing nuclear risk, promoting local justice reform in the U.S., and reducing corruption in Africa’s most populous country, Nigeria. In addition to the MacArthur Fellows Program and the global 100&Change competition, the Foundation continues its historic commitments to the role of journalism in a responsive democracy as well as the vitality of our headquarters city, Chicago.