Financial Accountant - Fund Accounting

Overview

Provides financial accounting services for the Touchstone Mutual Funds/Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and corresponding impact to Touchstone's business unit. Assists with the financial reporting responsibilities of the Touchstone Mutual Funds/ETFs, including the preparation and review of the quarterly, semi-annual and annual financial statements; management reporting; and board reporting materials. Assists with the day-to-day oversight of fund accounting and financial reporting functions by directing and interacting with third-party service providers and external auditors of the funds. Builds relationships with external service providers and external auditors. Participates with management as a business partner in the regulatory operations of the funds and the Touchstone business unit. Assists with acquisitions and mergers and the corresponding financial integration and conversions. Suggests and assists with the implementation of cost savings. Serves as back-up to the senior staff accountant of the Touchstone Mutual Funds/ETFs as required. Works with minimal supervision escalating to management when appropriate.

Responsibilities

What you will do:

• Assists with the oversight of the day-to-day accounting and financial reporting functions provided by our external service providers for the Touchstone Mutual Funds/ETFs. Communicates issues appropriately and timely across all areas. Elevates any areas of concern to management as soon as possible providing necessary content knowledge, answers and recommendations.
• Performs the daily operational activities for the mutual funds/ETFs and the implementation of acquisitions and mergers including the conversion from external service providers for fund accounting, financial reporting and tax functions.
• Is responsible for the preparation, review, accurate and timely completion of the annual, semi-annual, prospectus, SAI and N-Q, N-PORT, N-CEN and other financial reports to ensure they are prepared in accordance with applicable SEC regulatory requirements.
• Is responsible for the preparation and review of materials for management and the Touchstone board.
• Is responsible to make sure the mutual funds/ETFs are operating in accordance with SEC regulations and in the best interest of fund shareholders.
• Identifies, develops and implements methods to ensure the accuracy of information across the various reports to shareholders, regulators, management and the Touchstone board.
• Proactively designs, develops and implements effective oversight procedures, improves operational efficiencies and streamlines current processes.
• Supports the implementation of regulatory changes into Touchstone's procedures, controls and workflows.
• Reviews and analyzes fund budgets, accruals, and expense payments.
• Assists with the implementation of cost-saving ideas across the mutual fund/ETF complex to enhance the performance of the funds and returns to shareholders.
• Stays current on trends in our industry by networking and attending industry events.
• Participates in the industry Investment Company Institute and educational training programs.
• Serves as back up to the senior staff accountant.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Complies with all policies and standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree In accounting and/or finance-oriented field. - Required
• Advanced degree or designation (MBA, Master's degree in finance/accounting-equivalent, CFA, CPA or CMA) - Preferred
• Typically having up to two years of professional experience. - Required
• Proven experience handling multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. - Required
• Demonstrated successful experience in problem-solving situations. - Required
• Demonstrated basic knowledge and understanding of statutory and GAAP accounting principles. - Required
• Cites examples of application of accounting principles to business situations. - Required
• Demonstrated commitment to quality, emphasizing the need to deliver quality products and/or services. - Required
• Cites examples of self-motivation and proactive personal development. -
• Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles and effectively communicate technical information to associates at various levels. -
• Proven excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as experience communicating with large and small groups. -
• Proficient in general ledger accounting and spreadsheet applications. -
• Working knowledge of word processing and presentation applications. -

Work Setting/Position Demands:

• Works in an office setting and remains in a stationary position for long periods of time while working at a desk, on a computer or with other standard office equipment, or while in meetings.
• Requires the ability to verbally communicate and exchange accurate information to customers and associates on a regular basis.
• Requires visual acuity to read and interpret a variety of correspondence, procedures, reports and forms via paper and electronic documents, visual inspection involving small defects; small parts, and/or operation of machinery (including inspection); using measurement devices continuously. Visual acuity is required to determine accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of work assigned.
• Requires the ability to prepare written correspondence, reports and forms using prescribed formats and conforming to rules of punctuation, grammar, diction, and style on a regular basis.
• Requires the ability to apply principles of logical thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
• Performs substantial movement of wrists, hands, and fingers for continuous computer work.
• Extended hours required during peak workloads or special projects/events.

Travel Requirements:

• None