What an accountant does
An accountant in industry manages the core accounting cycle for an organization. Typical work includes month-end and year-end close, journal entries, account reconciliations, preparing financial statements, HST filings, supporting the annual audit or review engagement and preparing schedules for the external accountant. Many also help with budgets, cash flow forecasting and management reports. In smaller companies the accountant may also supervise a bookkeeper or AP clerk and serve as the main contact for the bank.
A strong accountant gives you reliable numbers and early warning when something is off. A weak one leads to late closes, audit adjustments and decisions made on inaccurate information. Finch screens for technical knowledge, software experience and attention to internal controls, and we confirm CPA status with CPA Ontario where the role requires it. For roles open to CPA candidates, we look at their progress through the program and the depth of their practical experience.
Typical responsibilities
- Complete month-end and year-end close
- Prepare journal entries and reconcile balance sheet accounts
- Prepare financial statements and management reports
- File HST returns and support corporate tax preparation
- Coordinate with external accountants during audits or review engagements
- Support budgeting, forecasting and cash flow planning
Qualifications and credentials
- A degree in accounting, finance or business
- The CPA designation through CPA Ontario, or progress through the CPA program, depending on the role
- Experience preparing financial statements under ASPE or IFRS
- Strong Excel skills and experience with accounting software or an ERP
- Knowledge of HST and Canadian corporate tax basics
Who hires an accountant
- Owner-managed private companies
- Manufacturers, distributors and construction companies
- Real estate and property management firms
- Non-profit organizations and charities
- Health care and professional services organizations
Where we recruit accountant candidates
We fill accountant roles for employers across Toronto and the GTA, including North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Oshawa and Pickering, and for employers across Canada. GTA employers can meet us at our North York office by appointment.
What Finch checks before you meet a candidate
- CPA status confirmed with CPA Ontario, or progress through the program verified
- Technical knowledge of close, reconciliations and financial reporting
- Software and Excel skills tested against your environment
- Attention to internal controls and documentation
- References from former controllers or finance managers
Interview questions to ask
- Walk me through your month-end close process. Where do issues usually come up?
- Tell me about an error you found in the financial statements. How did you trace it?
- How do you prepare for the year-end audit or review engagement?