Director of Accounting and Finance

Kern Energy is hiring a Director of Accounting & Finance who will serve as a senior leader within the Accounting & Finance organization, responsible for supporting all accounting operations while driving a successful end‑to‑end ERP system conversion. This role blends strategic leadership, operational excellence, and hands‑on project management. The ideal candidate is a seasoned accounting professional with deep technical expertise, strong process‑improvement instincts, and a track record of leading complex system implementations. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information that supports refinery operations and informed decision-making. The Director is accountable for fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture, building leadership capabilities, and partnering with executive leadership and operational teams to support Kern’s long-term business strategy. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern’s core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection.

Job Function

• Partner with IT, Accounting & Finance, Operations, and external consultants to lead an ERP conversion
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and system enhancements
• Support the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
• Support general ledger activities including journal entries, reconciliations, accruals, and account analysis.
• Monitor and analyze production variances, cost allocations, and operational performance metrics.
• Develop and maintain standard costing methodologies and variance reporting.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements.
• Ensure internal controls and ensure proper documentation and testing procedures are maintained.
• Support internal and external audit processes.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning initiatives.
• Provide financial modeling and analysis to support capital projects and operational improvements.
• Develop, document, and update accounting policies and procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Support the accounting team members including senior accountants, staff accountants, and support personnel.
• Ensure cross-functional collaboration between accounting, operations, supply chain, and leadership teams.
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety awareness, and continuous improvement.

Knowledge Skills

• Advanced knowledge of U.S. GAAP and cost accounting principles.
• Understanding of manufacturing, refinery, or heavy industrial accounting practices preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of inventory valuation and production accounting.
• Experience implementing ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to interpret complex financial data and communicate insights clearly.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• High level of integrity and commitment to ethical financial practices.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced refinery environment.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.

Education/ Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience.
• Minimum of 5 years in a leadership or supervisory role.
• Experience in refinery, oil and gas, manufacturing, energy, or heavy industrial environment strongly preferred.
• Experience managing audits, regulatory reporting, and complex inventory environments required.