External Operations Manager Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

The Financial Operations Manager ensures the integrity, accuracy, and efficiency of the firm's financial reporting and operational accounting functions under the direction of the COO. This role supervises the finance staff and is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring financial policies, procedures, and risk management practices to support sound governance and operational excellence within the firm.  This position is in-office, located in Lincoln, NE.

Essential Functions:

Financial Reporting & Oversight

• Oversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, payroll, and financial reporting functions.
• Ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Maintain integrity of financial data and reporting systems.
• Monitor firm performance metrics including WIP, AR aging, cash flow, realization, and expense trends.
• Lead the month-end and year-end close processes.
• Assist with the preparation and compilation of annual industry financial surveys and benchmarking reports.

Financial Policies & Procedures

• Develop, document, and maintain formal accounting policies and procedures.
• Establish standardized workflows for billing, collections, expense reimbursement, and cash handling.
• Continuously evaluate and improve financial processes for efficiency and risk mitigation.
• Ensure proper segregation of duties and documentation standards.

Internal Controls & Risk Management

• Identify areas of financial or operational risk and recommend corrective action.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations, GAAP standards, and professional requirements.

Budgeting & Financial Planning Support

• Lead the annual budgeting process and monitor performance against budget.
• Prepare financial forecasts and variance analyses.
• Provide financial modeling and analysis to support leadership decision-making.
• Assist leadership with financial planning initiatives as requested.

Cash & Treasury Management

• Oversee cash management, bank reconciliations, and banking relationships.
• Monitor working capital and cash flow trends.
• Ensure appropriate controls over disbursements and electronic payments.

Systems & Technology Oversight

• Oversee financial systems, accounting software, and integrations with practice management tools.
• Evaluate and implement automation and technology improvements.
• Ensure data security and integrity within financial systems.

Compliance & Firm Administration Support

• Oversee payroll processing and benefits accounting.
• Coordinate multi-state registrations and payroll tax filings to ensure timely and accurate submission.
• Ensure compliance with tax filings, payroll reporting, and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with firm insurance policies and financial-related vendor contracts.
• Coordinates the provision of information for annual external audits.
• Support documentation needs for governance and leadership review.

Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• High integrity and discretion
• Process oriented and detail-driven
• Risk-aware
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks
• Excellent critical thinking skills
• Ability to trouble shoot and propose solutions

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor finance department staff.
• Establish performance standards and accountability measures.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform the essential job functions consistent safely and successfully with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state, and local standards
• Must be able to talk, listen and speak clearly on telephone
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times

Travel Required

• Minimal travel required

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required
• Minimum of five years' experience performing financial and accounting functions of varying complexity is preferred
• Demonstrated experience developing financial policies and procedures
• Experience within a public accounting firm strongly preferred

What We Offer

• Full-time position with competitive pay based on experience.
• Excellent opportunities for career growth and advancement within the company.
• Full benefits package including health, vision, and dental coverage, and a 401k Safe Harbor contribution.
• Emphasis on collaborative, team-oriented service and a strong commitment to nonprofit and community involvement.
• Recognition for Diversity and Inclusion: HBE has been honored as one of the Best CPA Firms for Equity Leadership by the Accounting MOVE Project since 2015.

About HBE

Our story is one of solid growth, premier service, quality work, employee satisfaction, and business diversification. Since 1974, we've strived to create a warm and friendly atmosphere where you will feel at home and comfortable. We're as down-to-earth as our deep Nebraska roots, but we work from the most sophisticated tools and technology.

HBE offers a complete range of financial management services for businesses, nonprofit and governmental organizations, specialty industries, and individuals. These services include audit, tax, business consulting, outsourced accounting and CFO solutions, personal financial planning, and wealth management.

HBE has previously been recognized as one of the nation's Best Firms to Work for by Accounting Today.