Managing Director Accounting Policy & Research

Accounting Policy & Research Team Leader

This position is responsible for leading AEP's Accounting Policy & Research team, which is responsible for proactively identifying, assessing and researching technical accounting issues confronting a multi-jurisdiction electric utility company, including responsibilities in driving consensus with external auditors, timely issuing technical accounting guidance, and effectively communicating accounting matters to the appropriate levels of senior management. Also, responsible for establishing policy, evaluating accounting treatment, and reviewing SEC disclosures.

What you'll do:

• Individual will serve as the leader of the Accounting Policy & Research team and is responsible for the following functions:
• Responsible for the oversight and management of the Accounting Policy & Research team, including the establishment and execution of team goals, employee development, and the implementation of relevant Company initiatives and CAO organizational priorities.
• Responsible for the oversight and overriding review of all technical accounting analyses, deliverables and work products of the Accounting Policy & Research team.
• Subject matter expert supporting the investigation, identification, analysis, communication, and documentation for technical accounting matters relevant to significant, nonroutine, complex transactions or potential transactions.
• Partner with Financial Reporting to review SEC disclosures for significant, nonroutine, complex transactions
• Responsible for partnering and interacting with department leaders in the CAO's organization, the overall Finance organization, and other AEP business units, as appropriate, on cross-functional efforts such as significant transaction support, the adoption of new accounting standards, the implementation of new accounting policies, and other priority initiatives.
• Provide significant input and reviews of 10-K and 10-Q, including MD&A and footnote disclosures.
• Provides regular communication and recommendations to the CAO, CFO, and other executive leadership across the Company on significant technical accounting matters and emerging issues relating to the Company's strategic initiatives.
• Serve as a subject matter expert with respect to U.S. GAAP, FERC and SEC accounting matters. Refer to the Minimum Requirements section for significant technical accounting areas of focus.
• Build and maintain strong professional relationship with the Company's external auditors while driving consensus regarding the Company's accounting positions, policies, procedures, and disclosure requirements.
• Provide oversight and direction for the implementation of priority initiatives and strategic projects with a focus on process improvement, work product design, and the development and delivery of training on relevant technical accounting topics
• Represent and articulate Company viewpoints through direct participation in industry initiatives such as subject matter working groups and ad hoc task forces (e.g., standard-setting initiatives, emerging accounting issues, etc.)
• Support executive leadership in critical decision-making activities that drive and enhance business performance and related impacts to the Company's financial results.

What we're looking for:

Education requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business with a concentration in Accounting, or other related fields.

Work Experience requirements:

• Minimum of 12 years' experience
• Exposure with or familiarity with the utility industry preferred
• Public accounting experience preferred
• CPA certification or advanced degree preferred
• Preferred experience in the following accounting disciplines: Investments in Equity and Debt Securities, Goodwill, Internal-Use Software, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Asset Retirement Obligations, Contingencies, Guarantees, Debt, Equity, Revenue Recognition, Derecognition of Nonfinancial Assets, Compensation, Business Combinations, Consolidation, Derivatives and Hedge Accounting, Fair Value Measurement, Leases Regulated Operations

Other preferences:

• Physical demand level is Sedentary
• Strong competency in written and oral communication, including the ability to communicate complex accounting issues in simple, easy-to-understand formats
• Ability to write technical accounting memos to support relevant conclusions
• Ability to work as a part of a team and possess excellent time management and organizational skills
• Detail oriented with an ability to employ a logical approach to accomplish objectives and solve issues
• Ability to lead multiple projects, prioritize, and adapt to changing circumstances and requirements
• Ability to voice and defend opinions while guiding teams toward successful, collaborative implementation of change initiatives.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, Microsoft Teams, and similar collaborative technology
• Continuous improvement mindset with the following competencies: Adaptability, Flexibility, Creativity, and Initiative.

What you'll get:

• Base Salary
• Annual Bonus
• Long-term Incentive
• 401K
• AEP Pension
• Comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.

At AEP, we're more than just an energy company we're a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!