At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead audit engagements and provide expert guidance to utility clients.
- Company: Join Jackson Thornton, a respected firm with over 100 years of integrity and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy comprehensive health coverage, paid time off, and a 401(k) plan with matching.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the utility industry while mentoring future leaders.
- Qualifications: CPA with 5+ years of audit experience and strong utility industry knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About Ascend
Backed by private equity from people-focused Alpine Investors, Ascend is building a modern platform for regional accounting firms that enables them to stay independent while accessing the resources of a large CPA firm to help them grow. Ascend provides access to growth capital, robust talent acquisition, best-of-breed technology, a catalytic leadership system, shared back-office services, and modernized equity incentives so that firms can surmount today’s industry challenges and reach their full potential. Founded in January 2023, the company attained revenues sufficient to qualify it as a Top 100 U.S. accounting firm within six months of operation.
Jackson Thornton is looking for an Audit Manager to be responsible for the overall management of audit engagements within the utility industry practice and serve as a trusted advisor to utility clients, providing guidance on accounting, compliance, and regulatory matters. This role oversees multiple engagements simultaneously, manages client relationships, ensures technical accuracy, mentors audit supervisors and staff, and requires advanced technical expertise, strong leadership, and the ability to balance quality, efficiency, and client service.
As an Audit Manager, you will:
- Manage audit engagements from planning through report issuance for utility clients
- Serve as the primary client contact for management, boards, and audit committees
- Review audit plans, work papers, internal control documentation, and financial statements
- Apply and interpret RUS and FERC Uniform System of Accounts
- Oversee and review Single Audits, including risk assessment and compliance reporting
- Identify and resolve complex accounting and auditing issues related to utilities
- Mentor, coach, and evaluate audit supervisors and staff
- Coordinate with partners on engagement strategy, budgeting, and staffing
- Assist with proposals, client retention, and practice development
The ideal candidate will have:
- CPA with 5+ years of public accounting audit experience
- Significant utility industry experience (electric, telecom, water/wastewater, natural gas)
- Strong background working with cooperatives and municipal utilities
- Advanced knowledge of RUS and FERC USOA
- Single Audit experience
- Proven engagement management and client leadership skills
- Experience mentoring and developing audit teams
Jackson Thornton offers a comprehensive, competitive benefit package to all of our professionals, which includes health, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, long term and short term disability plans, medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts, paid time off plan, and a 401(k) plan with a match.
How to Apply
Submit your information in the application section directly below! This will include:
- Basic contact information
- Resume/CV and optional cover letter upload
- Work eligibility and compensation
- Voluntary demographic & self-ID questions
For further questions or inquiries about the role, please reach out to Olivia Riley, Sr. Recruiter at olivia.riley@ascendtogether.com.
At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.
Audit Manager in Birmingham employer: Ascend Partner Firms
Ascend, through its partnership with Jackson Thornton, offers a dynamic work environment that prioritises personal integrity and professional excellence. Employees benefit from a comprehensive package including health coverage, flexible spending accounts, and a robust 401(k) plan, all while being part of a supportive culture that fosters mentorship and career growth in the accounting and consulting field. Located in Montgomery, Alabama, this role provides the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of utility clients, ensuring meaningful contributions to the community and industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Audit Manager in Birmingham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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We think you need these skills to ace Audit Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Ascend Partner Firms.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Ascend Partner Firms
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Ascend Partner Firms.
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Since this is a full-time position, employers at Ascend Partner Firms will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Ascend Partner Firms employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
