JOB SUMMARY
To provide technical accounting leadership for technology projects and initiatives. This role will support the Technology Accounting Review Committee (TARC), ensuring that software and hardware investments are accounted for in compliance with GAAP, FERC, and company policies. The position will serve as a bridge between the SCS Technology Organization and various accounting functions (System Accounting Research, Corporate Accounting, Budgeting & Reporting, and Property Accounting) to resolve complex accounting issues.
Major Responsibilities
- Serve as a member of the Technology Accounting Review Committee (TARC), providing sound accounting guidance on software and hardware projects and other non-routine technology initiatives. Ensure accounting treatments for technology investments are in full compliance with FASB/GAAP standards, SEC reporting requirements, FERC regulations, and Southern Company policies.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as a liaison between the SCS Technology organization and key departments – including System Accounting Research, Corporate Accounting, Budgeting & Reporting, and Property Accounting – to address accounting questions and coordinate proper accounting treatment for technology-related expenditures. Facilitate conversations and problem resolution among these groups to ensure alignment and understanding of accounting decisions.
- Accounting Research & Issue Resolution: Proactively identify, research, and resolve technical accounting issues (e.g. software capitalization, cloud arrangements, project cost allocation, regulatory considerations) with minimal guidance. Provide well-reasoned accounting recommendations and write-ups for review.
- Evaluate the impact of new accounting standards and participate in the adoption of the new standards.
- Document and communicate complex accounting decisions and cost recovery mechanisms for technology projects.
- Organizational Leadership: Exhibit strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities. Take initiative to improve processes and efficiency in the budgeting and accounting for technology projects. Establish and maintain effective relationships and communications with business unit and project managers
- Strong organizational skills are a must
Job Requirements:
- Must have a minimum of 5 years’ experience required
- Ideal candidate will have accounting research experience
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related business field is required.
- A graduate degree in Accounting or Finance is a plus.
- CPA preferred
- Progressive accounting experience in accounting, finance or auditing roles. Prior experience in property accounting (accounting for capital assets, CWIP, depreciation, etc.) is preferred, as this role will frequently interface with Property Accounting. Previous experience in accounting, finance, or related field preferred
- In-depth knowledge of accounting principles and standards – including FASB/GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, and where applicable, FERC and other regulatory accounting guidance.
- Experience in researching and interpreting technical accounting literature to apply it to real-world scenarios.
- Experience in technology accounting or working directly with IT project financials (such as software development cost accounting, cloud computing arrangements, etc.) is highly beneficial.
Experience
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Extensive knowledge of FASB, GAAP and SEC accounting and reporting standards and requirements
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Able to translate complex accounting information into clear, concise explanations for senior management and non-financial partners. Tailors communication style to the audience, whether it’s detailed technical reports or executive summaries. Strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with accounting, budgeting, various non-financial functional areas, and varying levels of staff and management
- Ability to proactively identify, research, and resolve technical accounting issues (e.g. software capitalization, cloud arrangements, project cost allocation, regulatory considerations) with minimal guidance. Provide well-reasoned accounting recommendations and write-ups for review.
- Understanding of FERC reporting requirements is a plus
- Highly organized, able to juggle multiple projects and deadlines. Self-motivated with excellent follow-through. Shows initiative in improving processes and driving efficiencies in financial reporting and analysis for the technology area. Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision while also knowing when to seek input or escalate issues.
- Ability to operate in a matrix organization and communicate clearly with people at various levels including upper management
- Thorough understanding of techniques and methods for accounting, budgeting, cost tracking, financial projections, and interrelationships with affiliate accounting and budgeting functions
About Southern Company
Southern Company (NYSE: SO ) is a leading energy provider serving 9 million customers across the Southeast and beyond through its family of companies. Providing clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy with excellent service is our mission. The company has electric operating companies in three states, natural gas distribution companies in four states, a competitive generation company, a leading distributed energy solutions provider with national capabilities, a fiber optics network and telecommunications services. Through an industry-leading commitment to innovation, resilience and sustainability, we are taking action to meet customers' and communities' needs while advancing our goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. Our uncompromising values ensure we put the needs of those we serve at the center of everything we do and are the key to our sustained success. We are transforming energy into economic, environmental and social progress for tomorrow. Our corporate culture has been recognized by a variety of organizations, earning the company awards and recognitions that reflect Our Values and dedication to service. To learn more, visit www.southerncompany.com .
Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees and health, welfare and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, with the amount of any bonus/awards subject to the terms and conditions of the applicable incentive plan(s). A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here https://seo.nlx.org/southernco/pdf/SOCO-Benefits.pdf . Additional and specific details about total compensation and benefits will also be provided during the hiring process.
Southern Company is an equal opportunity employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Job Identification: 16772
Job Category: Accounting & Auditing
Job Schedule: Full time
Company: Southern Company Services
