Principal Accountant

Job description

Blackbaud is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Principal to join our Technical Accounting team. This role will report directly to the Manager, Technical Accounting and partner closely with leaders across Revenue Accounting, SEC Reporting, Operational Accounting, FP&A, Corporate Development, Product Management, and Legal. The ideal candidate will possess strong U.S. GAAP expertise and strong analytical skills. This role will support technical accounting, complex revenue accounting matters, implementation of new accounting standards, and quarterly and annual financial reporting activities. What you’ll do Research, analyze, and document accounting conclusions for new and / or complex transactions in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Prepare technical accounting analyses, memos and position papers supporting key accounting judgments and conclusions. Assist with accounting analyses related to revenue recognition, acquisitions, divestitures, segments, software development costs, leases, stock-based compensation, contingencies, restructuring activities, impairment analyses, and other complex accounting matters. Review significant customer contracts, new products, new go-to-market activities, strategic initiatives, and business model changes to determine appropriate accounting treatment under ASC 606 and other applicable guidance. Partner with the Revenue Accounting team to evaluate complex customer arrangements, revenue recognition matters, principal versus agent assessments, contract modifications, commissions accounting, and other non-routine transactions. Monitor and assess the impact of newly issued accounting standards and lead or support implementation projects. Prepare and update disclosures included in quarterly and annual SEC filings. Support internal and external audit activities, including preparation of audit support, responding to auditor inquiries, and serving as a key liaison with internal and external auditors regarding technical accounting matters. Maintain and periodically update accounting policies, procedures, and technical documentation. Evaluate business initiatives, system changes, and process improvements for accounting, financial reporting, and SOX implications. Partner with cross-functional teams, including Product, Engineering, Finance, and Business Systems, to identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes and implement automation solutions. Partner with cross-functional stakeholders across Accounting, FP&A, Product, Legal, Treasury, Tax, and Corporate Development to ensure accounting considerations are identified and addressed early in project lifecycles. Leverage technology and AI-enabled tools to improve the efficiency, consistency, and quality of technical accounting analyses and documentation. Perform other special projects and responsibilities as assigned. What you’ll bring Active CPA license or equivalent professional accounting certification (CA, ACCA, CPA) required. 5+ years of relevant public accounting experience and/or industry experience; Big 4 audit experience preferred. Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements. Experience performing technical accounting research and preparing accounting position memos/papers supporting complex accounting conclusions. Experience with ASC 606 revenue recognition guidance strongly preferred, including evaluating complex contracts and commercial arrangements. Experience evaluating accounting implications of business or asset acquisitions, debt arrangements, stock-based compensation, leases, and impairment analyses preferred. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly communicate complex accounting concepts to both finance and non-finance audiences. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work product. Experience working with ERP and financial reporting systems; Workday, BlackLine, and Hyperion experience preferred. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required. Experience supporting SOX-compliant environments and public company reporting processes preferred. Self-motivated team player with a continuous improvement mindset and a willingness to take ownership of complex accounting matters. Stay up to date on everything Blackbaud, follow us on Linkedin , X , Instagram , Facebook and YouTube ​ Blackbaud powers social impact through purpose‑driven technology and responsible AI. Guided by our Intelligence for Good® vision, we’re building a culture where innovation, trust, and human expertise come together to help organizations make a greater difference in the world. Blackbaud is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.