Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Accounting Manager

at Orbis International

🏢 About Orbis International

Orbis International is a global nonprofit dedicated to eliminating avoidable blindness and transforming lives through eye care. Working here means contributing to a mission that directly improves vision and health outcomes in underserved communities worldwide. The organization's innovative programs and partnerships offer a unique opportunity to use your accounting expertise for social impact.

About This Role

As Senior Accounting Manager, you will ensure financial integrity for Orbis's US and Canada operations, overseeing monthly closes, restricted fund reporting, and affiliate accounting. Your work directly supports program delivery by maintaining accurate financials and compliance, making you a critical partner to Development and Program Finance teams.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day starts with reviewing cash positions and reconciling bank accounts, then coordinating with the team on month-end journal entries. You might meet with Development to discuss restricted fund balances, followed by preparing Canada GST filings or reviewing financial statements for board reporting. Afternoons often involve mentoring staff and analyzing variances to ensure accuracy.

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🎯 Who Orbis International Is Looking For

  • Experienced in nonprofit fund accounting with at least 5 years specifically managing restricted net assets and donor restrictions.
  • A proven supervisor who has mentored teams of 2+ accounting professionals, fostering collaboration and growth.
  • Detail-oriented and proactive in preparing GAAP-compliant financial statements, Form 990/990T, and Canada GST filings.
  • Proficient in MIP accounting software and advanced Excel, with strong analytical and cross-departmental communication skills.

📝 Tips for Applying to Orbis International

1

Highlight specific examples of managing restricted fund reporting and reconciling restricted net assets in your resume.

2

Quantify your supervisory experience, e.g., 'Supervised 3 staff and mentored them to improve close efficiency by 20%.'

3

Mention any experience with Canada affiliate accounting or GST filings, as this is a unique requirement.

4

Tailor your cover letter to connect your accounting work to Orbis's mission—show you understand nonprofit financial stewardship.

5

If you have experience with MIP or similar nonprofit software, list it prominently in the skills section.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your 5+ years of nonprofit fund accounting and hands-on restricted net assets management.', "Showcase your supervisory experience and how you've mentored teams to improve accuracy and timeliness.", 'Demonstrate your ability to prepare Form 990/990T and ensure compliance with GAAP and regulatory filings.', "Express passion for Orbis's mission and how your financial stewardship supports global eye care programs."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review Orbis's latest annual report and financial statements to understand their revenue sources and restricted funds.
  • → Learn about Orbis's program countries and how funding flows to international projects to grasp restricted fund complexities.
  • → Familiarize yourself with Orbis Canada's operations and any unique Canadian accounting requirements (e.g., GST/HST).
  • → Read about Orbis's mission and recent impact stories to connect your role to their vision.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe your experience with restricted fund accounting and how you ensure proper allocation and reporting.
2 How do you supervise and mentor accounting staff? Give an example of a challenge you helped a team member overcome.
3 Walk us through your process for preparing a monthly financial statement close under GAAP.
4 Have you prepared Form 990 or 990T? What complexities do you anticipate for Orbis's international operations?
5 How would you coordinate with Development and Program Finance teams to reconcile restricted net assets?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't overlook the Canada affiliate requirement—failing to mention relevant experience may disqualify you.
  • Avoid generic statements about 'attention to detail' without specific examples of complex reconciliations or audits.
  • Don't neglect to show how you've improved processes in past roles; Orbis values efficiency and accuracy.

📅 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 Orbis International!

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