Application Guide

How to Apply for Manager, Assurance Services - Real Estate

at Aprio

🏢 About Aprio

Aprio is a premier business advisory and CPA firm that combines the resources of a large firm with the personalized attention of a boutique practice. Known for its collaborative culture and commitment to innovation, Aprio offers professionals the opportunity to work with a diverse client base across industries, including a strong focus on real estate. With a strong emphasis on employee development and work-life balance, Aprio is an ideal place for driven professionals to grow their careers.

About This Role

As the Manager of Assurance Services for the Real Estate practice at Aprio, you will lead multiple audit engagements, ensuring quality and client satisfaction. This role is pivotal in driving the growth of the real estate practice, as you'll be responsible for planning, execution, and team development. Your leadership will directly impact client relationships and the success of Aprio's real estate niche, making it a rewarding position for those who thrive in a client-facing, team-oriented environment.

💡 A Day in the Life

As a Manager, your day typically starts with reviewing team progress and client communications, then diving into technical audit work or addressing complex issues. You'll spend time mentoring staff, conducting planning sessions for upcoming audits, and perhaps meeting with clients to discuss findings or proposals. Evenings might involve reviewing workpapers or preparing for the next day's client meeting, balancing strategic oversight with hands-on involvement.

🎯 Who Aprio Is Looking For

  • A licensed CPA with a bachelor's degree in accounting (master's preferred) and 4-7 years of public accounting experience, with a focus on real estate audits.
  • Possesses deep knowledge of real estate accounting, including familiarity with affordable housing and non-profit sectors, and stays current with industry regulations.
  • A natural leader who has experience managing and mentoring staff, with strong coaching and feedback skills to develop junior team members.
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to manage complex engagements, build client relationships, and contribute to business development.

📝 Tips for Applying to Aprio

1

Tailor your resume to highlight your real estate audit experience, specifically mentioning any affordable housing or non-profit projects you've led.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly state your CPA license and years of public accounting experience, and provide concrete examples of how you've managed teams and complex audits.

3

Research Aprio's culture and recent news; mention something specific about their real estate practice or community involvement to show genuine interest.

4

Quantify your achievements in your resume, such as the size of audit teams you've led, the number of engagements managed, or improvements in efficiency.

5

Leverage your network to get a referral from someone at Aprio, as employee referrals can significantly boost your chances of getting noticed.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Emphasize your experience in the real estate industry, particularly with affordable housing and non-profits, and how it aligns with Aprio's practice.", "Highlight your leadership skills in managing and developing staff, with examples of how you've positively impacted team performance.", 'Showcase your ability to manage full-cycle audits, from planning to final delivery, and your commitment to delivering high-quality client service.', "Express enthusiasm for Aprio's culture and values, and explain why you're specifically interested in joining their team."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Look into Aprio's real estate practice: their key clients, services offered, and any recent case studies or articles they've published.
  • Review Aprio's mission, vision, and values, and understand how they emphasize employee development and community involvement.
  • Check Aprio's LinkedIn page and recent news to see any expansions, awards, or recognitions that you can reference in your application.
  • Research the affordable housing and non-profit sectors in the regions Aprio serves, to understand the local market and potential clients.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with real estate audits, including any specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
2 How do you approach coaching and developing staff? Provide an example of a time you helped a team member improve.
3 How do you handle multiple engagements and tight deadlines? Give an example of how you prioritized and managed your time.
4 What is your experience with affordable housing or non-profit audits? How does this align with Aprio's focus?
5 How do you stay current with changes in accounting standards and real estate regulations? Provide an example of applying a new standard.
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't submit a generic resume or cover letter that doesn't emphasize real estate experience; this role requires a specialized background.
  • Avoid being vague about your leadership experience; be ready to provide concrete examples of how you've managed and developed staff.
  • Don't overlook the importance of the CPA license; if you're not licensed, your application will likely be rejected, so ensure it's prominently displayed.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Aprio!