Job Description - Senior Bookkeeper

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance or Accounting.
• 3+ years of full-cycle accounting experience.
• Experience in the restaurant or similar retail industry is strongly preferred.
• Experience managing multiple clients (average of 4-6 clients).
• Knowledge of Canadian accounting standards (preferred, but can be assessed during the interview process).

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Advanced QuickBooks Online & Desktop proficiency.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel and the Microsoft Office suite.
• Critical thinker with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Highly organized with the ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities efficiently.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills to train and support junior team members.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent client service skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships.
• Passion for the hospitality industry and an understanding of its unique financial challenges.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Senior Bookkeeper will manage a portfolio of clients from our Toronto office, ensuring financial information is accurate and timely for both period-end and year-end reporting. You will oversee daily accounting functions, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, sales reporting, payroll, and expense tracking. This role reports directly to the Manager of Restaurant Accounting. Strong communication skills and a solid working knowledge of QuickBooks, Excel, and the Microsoft Office suite are essential.
This position requires a high level of accuracy, problem-solving ability, and attention to detail. The Senior Bookkeeper must be adept at managing multiple priorities and working with a diverse range of clients in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Strong client relationship management, financial analysis, and mentorship skills are key to success in this role. The ability to provide clear financial insights, interpret data, and communicate findings effectively to both clients and internal teams is essential. Additionally, the Senior Bookkeeper will play a leadership role in training and supporting junior staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensuring financial information is accurate and complete within set timelines.
• Oversee daily accounting functions, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, sales, payroll, and expenses.
• Act as the primary contact for vendor inquiries and manage cheque runs.
• Supervise and mentor junior bookkeepers, providing guidance and support.
• Identify and resolve accounting discrepancies, ensuring clean and accurate books.
• Conduct account reconciliation to verify the accuracy of financial statements and resolve discrepancies.
• Communicate proactively with clients regarding financial matters, budgeting issues, vendor and deposit discrepancies, and overall financial health.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, particularly within the hospitality industry.
• Prepare year-end packages, including trial balances, adjusting entries, and account reconciliations.
• Prepare and analyze financial reports, highlighting key performance indicators for management review.
• Calculate and file government remittances such as PST/GST, payroll deductions, EHT, and WSIB.
• Process bi-weekly payroll, including tax deductions, vacation pay, issuing ROEs and T4s, and resolving payroll-related issues.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles, industry regulations, and internal policies.
• Assist external accountants with financial reporting requirements.
• Lead the period-end close process, ensuring financial accuracy and timely reporting.