Private Equity & Real Estate Fund Accounting - Senior Associate

Role Purpose

The Senior Fund Accountant serves as a Senior Fund Accountant(SFA) in private equity fund accounting, leveraging deep product knowledge and technical expertise to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting. This role focuses on reviewing complex transactions, mentoring junior team members, and acting as a key resource for operational queries and process improvements.

Core Responsibilities

Subject Matter Expertise & Product Knowledge

• Act as an SME for fund structures, investor economics, waterfalls, and carried interest calculations.
• Provide guidance on complex accounting treatments (equalizations, FX remeasurement, side letter economics).
• Support AVP/VP in interpretation of fund governing documents and application of accounting policies.

Review & Quality Assurance

• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements prepared by analysts.
• Validate capital activity (calls, distributions, true-ups) and ensure compliance with fund terms.
• Perform variance analysis and resolve discrepancies before reporting deadlines.
• Ensure audit readiness by maintaining proper documentation and control adherence.

Accounting & Reporting

• Prepare and review quarterly and annual financial statements under US GAAP/IFRS.
• Assist in valuation processes and ensure accurate application of fair value principles.
• Support regulatory reporting (Form PF, Annex IV) and investor tax pack preparation.

Process Improvement & Automation

• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows and reduce manual touchpoints.
• Collaborate on system enhancements (Investran, eFront, Allvue) and automation initiatives.

Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing

• Coach junior accountants on technical accounting concepts and system usage.
• Conduct training sessions on fund structures, waterfall mechanics, and reporting standards.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Accuracy: Zero material errors in reviewed deliverables.
• Timeliness: On-time completion of reviews and reporting cycles.
• SME Impact: Resolution of complex queries and successful knowledge transfer.
• Process Efficiency: Reduction in review turnaround time and manual adjustments.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelors/masters in accounting/finance; CPA/ACA preferred.
• 5+ years in private equity fund accounting or alternatives.
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP/IFRS, ASC 946/820, waterfall mechanics, and investor economics.
• Proficiency in PE accounting platforms (Investran, eFront, Allvue) and Excel.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

Competencies

• Technical Depth: Advanced accounting knowledge and ability to interpret complex fund terms.
• Attention to Detail: High accuracy in reviews and reconciliations.
• Communication: Ability to explain technical concepts clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ownership: Takes initiative in resolving issues and improving processes.