Accountant

Berkley Small Business Solutions (BSB) offers commercial insurance products for standard and preferred non-fleet transportation and small businesses. We utilize a modern technology platform that leverages data and analytics to deliver a superior customer experience.

 

W.R. Berkley Corporation, founded in 1967, is one of the nation’s premier commercial lines property casualty insurance providers. Each of the operating units in the Berkley group participates in a niche market requiring specialized knowledge about a territory or product. Our competitive advantage lies in our long-term strategy of decentralized operations, allowing each of our units to identify and respond quickly and effectively.

 

The accountant uses independent thinking, relying on personal judgment, training and experience to execute daily functions and to make recommendations on activities that support the finance department. Reporting to the Operating Unit Chief Financial Officer, the Staff Accountant will be involved in all accounting and reporting functions as well as financial projects. The incumbent is integral to the finance department and is responsible for the accurate processing and preparation of monthly/quarterly financial data in support of the financial close.  This position requires satisfactory completion of daily, weekly and monthly accounting tasks, which include cash application, account reconciliations, intercompany transactions and settlement, and maintaining the accuracy and completeness of data in the general ledger.  This position will direct SOX activities as assistant coordinator of the program for the organization.

 

• Responsible for supporting accounts receivable activities including billing and payments, reconciliations, and researching and resolving discrepancies with brokers, insureds and other departments as needed.
• Assist in the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing procedures including managing the monthly calendar, preparing and uploading journal entries and ensuring that deadlines are met, timely and accurately.
• Preparation and processing of accounts payable and coordinating with internal and external parties.
• Reconciliation and analysis of balance sheet accounts and resolving variances.
• Validation and reconciliation of all monthly insurance activity for premiums, claims, and reinsurance.
• Process affiliated intercompany journal entries and variances and coordinate activities with other OUs as needed.
• Prepare monthly expense analysis and research inconsistencies as they arise.
• Assist with accumulating data for regulatory and statutory filings including preparation of statutory schedules P and F.
• Develop process documentation and process enhancements including soundness of internal controls.
• Work with the CFO in preparation of reports and completion of the quarterly CFO package.
• Monitor the implementation and maintenance of accounting control procedures and participate in the preparation and coordination of SOX and audit related activities.
• Collaborate in audits conducted by external public accountants, state regulatory examiners and parent company auditors.
• Apprise the CFO of any issues that may impact timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Test and validate various system updates/changes that impact the Finance area.
• Assist with preparation of the annual corporate budget and operating plan.
• Investigate, resolve, and document accounting discrepancies.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with parent and affiliate company personnel.
• Perform other duties as assigned, including ad-hoc analysis and support for special projects as needed.
• May perform other functions as assigned

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting practices and principles
• Strong PC skills; proficiency in Microsoft Office products
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, analytical and problem- solving skills
• Demonstrated ability to improve work processes
• Team player with initiative and innovation skills
• Detail-oriented and strong organizational skills
• Strong customer focus (responsive to internal and external customers)
• Able to work effectively as part of a team and on independent assignments, and to pursue tasks and objectives without the need for close supervision
• Demonstrated ability to be proactive, complete assignments and meet deadlines
• Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of management and staff
• Ability to effectively work in a fast-paced environment with competing demands on resources, time and priorities
• Advanced knowledge of Excel and intermediate knowledge of Word
• Experience with software applications a plus: PeopleSoft GL, Perceptive, Archer, Hyperion Essbase/Smart View, Vena 

 

Education 

• B.A. degree in Accounting or Finance
• CPA a plus
• A minimum of 3 years Property Casualty insurance accounting experience or public accounting experience working in the insurance industry

Berkley Core Competencies

• Communication
• Customer Focus and Teamwork
• Flexibility
• Delivers Results
• Technical & Job Excellence
• Accountability

The Company is an equal employment opportunity employer
We do not accept any unsolicited resumes from external recruiting agencies or firms.
The company offers a competitive compensation plan and robust benefits package for full time regular employees.
The actual salary for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment.
Travel: Not Required
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to be seated for sustained periods of time; be able to pick up, pinch, twist, or keyboard; must be able to communicate detailed or important information accurately; distinguish sounds at normal levels (with or without correction) and be able to receive detailed information orally. The employee is occasionally required to move about the office to accomplish tasks; ability to reach in any direction; raise or lower objects or move objects from place to place; and hold onto objects. Occasionally, the employee may need to move or exert force up to 10 pounds. The employee is regularly required to operate a computer and other office equipment (phone, copier and printer).
Sponsorship not Offered for this Role