Job Description
Opportunity : Regional Accountant MHR Sonic of Phoenix, LLC (“ SOP ”) — A full-time salaried position with benefits. About Our Company SOP is the shared accounting office for a portfolio of SONIC Drive-In franchise restaurants spanning multiple states. An affiliate of MHR Enterprises, LLC, SOP provides payroll processing, accounting, tax compliance, and financial reporting services for over 200 locations. Headquartered in Phoenix, AZ with a presence in Oklahoma City, OK, SOP operates as a close-knit team of accounting and payroll professionals committed to delivering accurate, timely financial information to our operating partners. Our organization is guided by core values established by its founders: People & Passion, Servant Leadership, a Partner Store Focus, unwavering Integrity & Trust, and Open Communication. These principles empower partners and team members alike, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment where input is valued and excellence is celebrated. We’re in an exciting period of growth — investing in new tools, refining processes, and strengthening the connection between our accounting office and the partners we serve. Job Summary The Regional Accountant serves as the primary accountant for an assigned portfolio of SONIC Drive-In restaurants across multiple states — responsible for the full accounting lifecycle – from the first transaction to the final financial statement. This is not a support role; you are the accountant of record for your portfolio. That means full ownership of general ledger accounting, accounts payable, monthly and year-end close, balance sheet and bank reconciliations, journal entries, and financial reporting — with operating partners counting on you to deliver accurate, timely numbers every period. The ideal candidate is self-directed and comfortable working independently across a high volume of entities in a fast-paced environment, without waiting to be told what needs attention. This role reports to the SOP Controller and works alongside a team of accountants and payroll specialists. With demonstrated performance and initiative, this position offers the opportunity to take on expanded responsibilities — including involvement in process improvement initiatives, technology rollouts, and cross-functional projects — as the team continues to evolve. Some travel between Oklahoma City and Phoenix will be required. Primary Responsibilities Manage full-cycle accounting for an assigned group of franchise restaurant locations across multiple states Perform monthly close procedures and ensure accurate, consistent, and timely delivery of financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet, and Statement of CF) to operating partners Complete bank reconciliations and balance sheet account reconciliations Process and review accounts payable, ensuring proper coding, approvals, and timely payment Prepare and input journal entries with appropriate supporting documentation Assist with year-end close procedures, including preparation of schedules, required tax compliance reporting, and workpapers Communicate proactively with operating partners regarding financial results, open items, and deadlines Prepare and file sales tax returns across multiple states, ensuring compliance with applicable nexus obligations and deadlines for each jurisdiction in the assigned portfolio Participate in process improvement initiatives as the team enhances its use of Restaurant365 (" R365 ") and other financial tools Record and reconcile intercompany transactions across multiple entities, ensuring accuracy between store-level and SOP accounts Monitor AP aging, serve as a point of contact for vendor relationships, and ensure timely resolution of outstanding balances Maintain organized records in accordance with company policies and audit standards Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field 3+ years of accounting experience, preferably in a multi-entity or multi-location environment Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage competing deadlines across multiple entities Strong written and verbal communication skills High attention to detail and accuracy Preferred Qualifications Experience in restaurant, franchise, or hospitality accounting Experience with R365 or similar restaurant accounting platforms CPA or CPA-track Familiarity with payroll processing and payroll tax compliance Familiarity with AI tools (e.g., Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini) for enhanced productivity and analysis <