Finance & Accounting Manager

Finance \& Accounting Manager Location: Missouri I\-44 Corridor (St. Louis to Joplin) Work Arrangement: Home\-based, with occasional travel to Ozark Fiber offices and operating markets throughout Southern Missouri. Ozark Fiber seeks a hands\-on Finance \& Accounting Manager to lead the Company’s accounting, financial reporting, billing administration, financial planning and regulatory compliance functions. This position will serve as a key financial resource to senior management and will be supported by an accounting clerk or similar finance support position. Job Description This position is responsible for the Company’s finance and accounting functions, including but not limited to: Managing the general ledger, accounting entries, account reconciliations and monthly, quarterly and year\-end close processes; Preparing financial statements and coordinating annual audits and tax filings with outside accountants and advisors; Preparing monthly internal management reporting incorporating financial results and key operating metrics, including revenue, subscribers, ARPU, churn, market performance, EBITDA and capital expenditures; Leading annual budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, cash\-flow planning and other financial planning and analysis; Overseeing customer billing and revenue administration through the Company’s BSS/OSS platform, including billing reconciliations, accounts receivable, payment processing, credits, adjustments and collections; Overseeing accounts payable, cash receipts, banking reconciliations and routine cash\-management activities; Maintaining fixed\-asset records and accounting for network construction and other capital expenditures; Coordinating FCC, USAC and Missouri Public Service Commission filings and other telecommunications regulatory compliance requirements; Managing financial and compliance reporting associated with the Company’s BEAD\-funded projects, including expenditure tracking, documentation and reimbursement requests; Coordinating Opportunity Zone compliance testing and reporting with outside tax advisors; Coordinating federal, state and local telecommunications taxes, fees, licenses, property taxes and related compliance matters; Administering payroll, employee expense reimbursements, 401(k), health and welfare benefits and related financial and administrative processes; Coordinating Company insurance administration, including property, liability, workers’ compensation and vehicle coverage; Maintaining appropriate financial controls, approval processes and segregation of duties; and Identifying opportunities to improve and automate accounting, reporting and administrative processes. This position will report directly to the President/CEO and will work closely with Company leadership, operations personnel and outside accounting, tax, audit and regulatory professionals. Required Experience and Skills Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and substantial relevant professional experience. 7\+ years of progressively responsible experience, including experience independently managing an accounting or finance function. Demonstrated professional experience in accounting, finance or controllership functions, with the ability to independently manage a broad range of financial responsibilities. Strong understanding of financial statements, general ledger accounting, accrual accounting, account reconciliations and month\-end close processes. Experience with budgeting, forecasting, financial modeling, variance analysis and management reporting. Ability to translate financial and operating data into clear, useful information for senior management. Strong proficiency with Microsoft Excel and financial/accounting software; experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting platforms is preferred. Demonstrated experience using modern AI models and AI\-enabled tools in a professional environment to improve financial analysis, reporting, research, documentation, workflow efficiency or process automation. Ability to use AI tools thoughtfully and responsibly, including independently validating results and exercising appropriate judgment concerning confidential and financial information. Strong technology aptitude and ability to learn and work across accounting, billing, payroll, banking and other business systems. Strong organizational and project\-management skills, with the ability to manage recurring filing deadlines and multiple concurrent priorities. High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, while maintaining the ability to understand the broader business implications of financial information. Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with senior management, employees, auditors, accountants, consultants, regulators and vendors. Self\-starter who is comfortable working independently, taking ownership of responsibilities and developing improved processes. Experience in telecommunications, broadband, utilities or another regulated industry is preferred but not required. Experience with FCC, USAC, state regulatory, government grant or similar compliance reporting is preferred. CPA, CMA or other relevant professional designation is preferred but not required. About Ozark Fiber Ozark Fiber is a fiber\-based internet service provider deploying services to residences and businesses in traditionally underserved areas. We are focused on delivering industry\-leading service while investing in the communities we serve. We recognize our team members as our greatest asset. Our culture is values\-driven, performance\-based and team\-focused. We offer a competitive salary, performance incentives and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid time off and a flexible work environment. Ozark Fiber is an equal opportunity employer. Any offer of employment is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a pre\-employment background check and any other employment screening required by Company policy. Benefits: 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off * Vision insurance Work Location: Hybrid remote in Springfield, MO 65809