Director Accounting Policy

Security Benefit is searching for an experienced Director, Accounting Policy, with proven experience to join our Finance team. This position will work in our Des Moines, Iowa, Overland Park or Topeka, Kansas office with full remote being an option. SB associates are working in a hybrid environment with both remote and on-site work.

Who Are We?

Security Benefit fosters strong partnerships to provide insightful and customized retirement solutions for employers and individual investors nationwide. Through a broad advisor network and its nationally recognized money managers, Security Benefit provides mutual funds, annuities and retirement programs.

What Does the Job Look Like?

The Director, Accounting Policy is responsible for creating the accounting policies of SB to ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (US GAAP) and Statutory Accounting Principles (SAP).  The Director, Accounting Policy will assist in the development and maintenance of accounting policies and procedures; monitor, assess and communicate the effects of proposed accounting standard changes; and spearhead the implementation of new accounting standards and development of relevant accounting policies.  This position will report to the Head of Accounting Policy.

• Proactively monitor and research new (and/or modifying) existing accounting pronouncements from the FASB, NAIC, and other standard-setting bodies – to ensure the Company’s compliance with GAAP & SAP and that all new accounting standards are accurately adopted
• Serve as key developer of new accounting policies and procedures to account for significant and unusual transactions and technical accounting guidance; establish necessary workflow for approval
• Develop and maintain reporting tools to keep all stakeholders informed of key changes
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to help advise and determine accounting ramifications for complex transactions
• Participate in working groups to optimize accounting policies, processes, and controls
• Develop and maintain effective and efficient relationships with internal and external customers as well as business partners
• Assist in the development and maintenance of accounting policies and procedures
• Provide ongoing guidance on accounting implications of new products or transactions, and works with business line leaders on implementation of changes to accounting policies and procedures
• Work independently to research and analyze proposed and/or completed transactions, and author Accounting Policy memorandums documenting those transactions
• Prepare and deliver training programs and other communications to educate the finance department on accounting changes
• Maintain current knowledge of topics arising from the FASB, AICPA, NAIC and all other governing bodies
• Leads special projects as needed
• Support an environment of continuous improvement

Who Are You?

Beyond experience, the right personal style and leadership competencies are critical to success as the Director, Accounting Policy at Security Benefit.  The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following leadership competencies and personal characteristics:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required
• Certified Public Accountant required with 8-10+ years of accounting for insurance contracts 
• Experience in public accounting firm (Big 4 preferred)
• 4+ years insurance industry experience with Accounting Policy experience preferred
• Credibility and character to liaise across corporate functions; ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues
• Expertise in US GAAP and SAP
• Ability for developing solutions within the boundaries of regulatory agencies and corporate infrastructure standards
• Sense of urgency – ability to confirm to shifting priorities, demands and timelines, making adjustments accordingly and execute tasks in support of corporate goals
• Ability to influence others, including stakeholders, staff and other departments
• Concerned with customer satisfaction and consistently works to provide high level of satisfaction
• Ability to act independently in identifying problems while exhibiting judgement and a realistic understanding of issues and interdependencies
• Strong problem solving and decision making skills
• High level of interpersonal skills, integrity and ethics
• Self-starter with a collaborative approach who values and encourages teamwork
• Strong analytical and research skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks
• Ability to travel on a limited basis to our corporate headquarters in Topeka, Kansas, and to industry conferences on an as needed basis
• Actively participate in and advocate for the Firms’ interests within industry forums

What Security Benefit Can Offer You?

Security Benefit offers a competitive salary and as a full-time employee you are eligible for our robust benefits package including:

• Employees are eligible for an annual incentive bonus designed to reward for performance.
• 33 days of paid time off for PTO, paid holidays, days of Significance, and a Volunteer Day
• Paid parental leave eligible after one year of service
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 401k with company match
• Profit Sharing & Savings Plan
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Life insurance
• Educational Assistance
• Associate Assistance Programs
• Career growth and more!

Consider joining our progressive team in our nationally recognized company. Visit the career section of our website at www.securitybenefit.com/careers to apply and submit your resume. EOE