GL/R2R Accounting, Specialist

The Senior Specialist, reporting to the Corporate Accounting Manager is a key role that is responsible for the month-end close process, accrual accounting, posting journal entries, completing account reconciliations in Blackline, variance analysis, audit support, intercompany accounting reconciliation and other ad-hoc projects for the US and Canadian subsidies of Avient Corporation. Shift: The candidate should be flexible to work in different shifts, preferably in EMEA and US time zones. Job Title: Senior Specialist, Corporate Accounting Manages SAP general ledger accounting activities. Primary responsibilities include the monthly and quarterly closing process for related company financial statements, including providing direct oversight to general ledger accounts, preparing journal entries and account reconciliations. Uploading of trial balances into Avient’s SAP system. Works cross functionally with those in other areas, such as Manufacturing Accounting, Global Business Services, Analytical Finance, Treasury and Tax, to co-ordinate process improvements that result in more effective and efficient monthly and quarterly close processes. Responsible for the preparation of various accounting requirements, including journal entries, reconciliations, analysis of activities and reporting. Areas of responsibility include execution of monthly COPA assessments, various judgmental accruals and reserves, preparation of account reconciliations in Blackline, as well as assistance with other miscellaneous close activities. Identifies areas of improvement, including potential automation opportunities to drive process efficiency. Preparing work instructions / SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) of the process, team mentoring and ensure compliance with process SLA (Service Level Agreement) and KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) for assigned entities. Assists and provides cross functional support, guidance and escalation management of activities from our internal business partners. Takes ownership and drives completion of other activities and processes such as SOX, external and internal audits. Other duties as assigned. Bachelor's degree in accounting or related field. CA / Inter CA, MBA in finance, any other specialization in accounting and finance. SAP experience - mandatory Desirable: Experience with HFM (Hyperion Financial Management) tool. Multi-entity experience Desirable: Experience in project accounting, fixed asset and lease accounting. Advanced excel skillset. Desirable: VBA (Visual basic for application) Macro / Power Automate scripting skills. Data analytics experience. Desirable: Experience in Tableau / Power BI. 7+ years of experience in accounting, finance, SOX compliance and treasury in an SAP environment. Advanced written and verbal communication skills. Critical thinking and the ability to “own” responsibilities in a fast-paced environment focused on results. Team player with proven ability to lead and manage projects. Able to work in a dynamic, fast paced, informal, often ambiguous and rapidly changing business environment.