Chief Accounting Officer

The mission of Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) is to start, sustain and strengthen LCMS ministries through financial and strategic partnerships. Reporting Relationship The Chief Accounting Officer reports to President & CEO. Summary The Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) is responsible for the leadership and strategic oversight of the company’s accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, audit, and compliance reporting. This role ensures the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of all financial transactions and reporting in accordance with GAAP and applicable regulations. The CAO partners with executive leadership to support financial strategy, manage risk, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within the accounting function. Essential Job Functions Leadership & Oversight Direct and oversee all accounting functions including AR/AP, payroll, and general ledger management. Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, building a strong, collaborative team environment. Establish and maintain internal controls and policies to safeguard assets and ensure compliance. Ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes. Manage preparation of internal financial statements and external reporting requirements. Oversee payroll processing and related compliance with tax and labor laws. Monitor cash flow, working capital, and financial controls to support organizational health. Compliance & Audit Coordinate external audits and ensure adherence to GAAP, regulatory, and tax reporting requirements. Stay current on emerging accounting standards, tax regulations, and compliance obligations. Recommend improvements to processes, systems, and reporting tools to increase efficiency and accuracy. Strategic Contribution Work with the Executive Team and other senior leaders to provide support and strategic insight. Collaborate with the CEO/CFO on long-term financial planning and risk management strategies. Provide insights on accounting impacts for business decisions and capital investments. Support organizational initiatives with accurate financial data and scenario analysis. Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA preferred. 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. Strong knowledge of GAAP, payroll regulations, and internal controls. Demonstrated experience managing accounting operations in a multi-entity or mid-sized organization. Competencies (Knowledge, Skills and Abilities) Proficiency with ERP/accounting systems and advanced Excel skills. Critical thinking and reasoning skills. Ability to assess, evaluate and provide sound judgment in carrying out duties. Understands business implications of decisions. Provides strategic leadership through change. Anticipates future trends, develops innovative approaches, and guides the organization through transformation with clarity and confidence. Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and multi-task. Detail oriented with high degree of accuracy. Results-driven with the ability to work well under pressure and under tight deadlines, and with minimal supervision. Ability and desire to establish and maintain effective interpersonal relationships. Collaborative and team mindset that establishes favorable relationships with staff and vendors. Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to provide clear direction and feedback, and can communicate effectively with various audiences and all levels of the organization. Seeks self-development opportunities. Cooperates and participates fully in the coaching process, and actively seeks continuous learning to improve personal and team performance. Partner with others to engage in problem-solving. Ability to clearly articulate issues and concerns and recommend solutions. LCEF is an equal opportunity employer.

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