Senior Client Bookkeeper / Client Accounting & Payroll Manager
Location: Charlottesville, VA (On-site or hybrid)
Company: Wills & Associates, a division of Wills Accounting
Job Summary
Wills & Associates is a growing, client-focused accounting firm specializing in accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and business consulting. We are seeking an experienced bookkeeper to lead a portfolio of client accounts, manage day-to-day bookkeeping and payroll, and provide proactive advisory support to small and mid-sized business clients.
This role is ideal for a seasoned bookkeeping professional who is comfortable owning client relationships, presenting financials, and helping business owners make better decisions.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage full-cycle bookkeeping for an assigned group of clients, including:
- Accounts payable and accounts receivable
- Bank and credit card reconciliations
- Month-end close and general ledger maintenance
- Oversee payroll processing for client companies, including:
- Setting up and maintaining payroll in appropriate systems
- Coordinating time and attendance data
- Reviewing payroll for accuracy and timeliness
- Assisting with payroll tax filings and resolving related notices
- Prepare monthly and quarterly financial statements and management reports; review results with clients and answer questions.
- Monitor client books for issues and opportunities (cash flow, margins, expense trends) and communicate recommendations clearly and practically.
- Coordinate with the tax team to ensure clean year-end books and a smooth tax preparation process.
- Handle routine compliance related to bookkeeping clients (e.g., sales tax filings, basic registrations as applicable).
- Serve as the primary point of contact for bookkeeping and payroll clients:
- Respond to client emails and calls promptly
- Train clients on best practices, processes, and firm technology
- Maintain strong, professional relationships and high client satisfaction
- Help standardize and improve internal workflows for client accounting (checklists, close calendars, documentation standards, portal usage).
- Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to firm policies and professional standards.
Qualifications
- 5+ years of hands-on small business bookkeeping experience, preferably in a public accounting firm or outsourced client accounting environment.
- Strong proficiency with QuickBooks Online; experience with other accounting and payroll platforms is a plus.
- Demonstrated experience owning a book of business or client portfolio, including direct client interaction and advisory conversations.
- Solid understanding of:
- Basic GAAP for small businesses
- How bookkeeping connects to tax preparation and planning
- High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple client engagements and deadlines.
- Excellent communication skills (written and verbal), with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-accountants.
- Comfort with cloud-based systems, client portals, and secure document management.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred, or equivalent experience.
Desired Attributes
- Client-service mindset, focused on responsiveness and clear communication.
- Proactive approach to identifying problems and proposing solutions.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with tax and advisory staff.
- Professional, positive attitude and willingness to contribute to firm process improvement.
Compensation and Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Potential for performance-based bonuses.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Opportunity to grow within a multi-firm advisory and tax environment.
Pay: $65,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Charlottesville, VA 22911
