The Accounting Shared Services Manager will lead a team of accounting and business system professionals providing centralized accounting, Accounts Payable (A/P) and product operating model support to the organization. The role designs, implements and evaluates innovative accounting solutions that meet business objectives, continuous improvement targets and informs strategic planning. This role will help define and turn the Controller Division strategy into reality for delivering best in class processes. Fostering a culture of ongoing enhancement and operational excellence, the Shared Services Leader will oversee efficiency, promote the utilization of technology, and cultivate talent.

• Manage the planning, strategic goals, and objectives of Accounting Shared Services including A/P, Accounting Services, and Systems Analysts that support Accounting technology as part of the Finance & Actuarial Product Operating Model.
• Lead, drive, and influence the development and implementation of process improvement initiatives to increase standardization, optimization, and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the Controller team.
• Educate the teams on shared services best practices and serve as a subject matter expert on Thrivent’s general ledger (ERP) and Concur systems, with a deep understanding of the Treasury Management System (TMS), product administration systems, and related reporting tools.
• Develop a continuous-learning culture where team input, innovation and professional learning opportunities are valued.
• Drive innovation and process improvements through combining best practices in accounting with cloud-based tools, AI, and ML to streamline and automate manual work.
• As a key stakeholder, ensure the work of Controller team aligns with and supports the strategic objectives and directives of the Finance & Actuarial Product Operating Model team.
• Develop and maintain policies, processes, and procedures for the shared service center, ensuring compliance with corporate standards and best practices and sharing across the Controller team.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders across the organization, including, but not limited to leaders in the Controller, Treasury, POM (Product Operating Model), FP&A, Investments, General Counsel, and Procurement teams.
• Recruits, develops, and sustains a high-performing team while promoting a culture of shared accountability, operational excellence, and partnership across the organization.
• Models Thrivent’s leadership competencies – Model the Way, Deliver Outcomes and Rally the Team by demonstrating resiliency, working together to make the best decisions, and holding yourself and others accountable.
• Supports and/or develops an environment in which Thrivent employees and colleagues are focused on continuous improvement, exceptional employee engagement, and an unwavering commitment to our clients. Shapes and/or supports a culture that represents the Thrivent purpose, promise and values, ensuring that Thrivent’s trust and reputation remain strong with its clients.
• Understands enterprise and division strategy and applies that knowledge to their work.

Required:

• Proven experience creating a culture of continuous improvement, with demonstrated ability to identify, drive, implement process improvements, lead teams through change, and understand and influence data needs for financial reporting.
• Technical proficiency in accounting principles, financial reporting, and relevant accounting software and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, finance, or related field required.
• 7+ years finance/accounting experience or other similar experience.
• 3+ years managerial experience, across multiple disciplines.
• Demonstrated success in providing consultative support to business leaders to meet their reporting and operational needs.

Preferred:

• Self-starter who is passionate about building and scaling processes.
• Advanced degree in finance or professional designation (e.g., CPA, CMA, MBA).
• Financial services experience.