Firm Principal - Accounting

About Decimal

Decimal is a franchise network of operator-owned accounting firms. We built the technology, processes, and infrastructure we had when we were running a firm, then made it available to independent accountants who want to grow without giving up ownership.

This role is with a Columbus-based Decimal franchise. We’re looking for someone who wants the accountability of running a firm without spending years building the infrastructure to make it possible. You get real ownership of the practice and a client base to grow, backed by systems that most independents spend a decade cobbling together. The franchise owner is hiring a Principal to run this practice: client delivery, operations, and growth.

Job Summary

We are seeking a Principal who will run this franchise location. This is not a senior manager role inside a large firm. You take on the client relationships and the accountability of running a practice. You get the technology stack, specialized teams, and network that most independent firms spend years trying to build on their own. Early on, the role covers firm management, client delivery, and business development. As the team grows, you shift toward leadership and strategy, operating within Decimal’s standards.

Key Responsibilities:

Firm Management & Operations

• Set the culture for the franchise, with Decimal’s values as the baseline.

• Oversee financial health: budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, and profitability.

• Ensure compliance with tax regulations and labor laws.

• Build relationships with clients, referral partners, and local contacts that lead to new business.

• Manage payroll, benefits, and operational processes.

• Maintain clear documentation of decisions, client interactions, and procedures.

• Participate in the Decimal franchise network and keep your team connected to it.

Client Delivery & Team Leadership

• Lead Accounting Managers and Delivery Support.

• Conduct performance reviews and support professional development.

• Own client onboarding and hold it to Decimal’s standards.

• Spot operational problems and fix them.

• Give the team guidance on compliance and day-to-day operations.

• Act as the primary escalation point for client issues.

Technical Oversight

• Review and sign off on complex client engagements.

• Keep the firm compliant with GAAP, IRS requirements, and applicable standards.

• Guide use of accounting platforms such as QuickBooks Online, Xero, Bill.com, Ramp and related tools.

Sales & Business Growth

• Build client relationships and win new business through direct outreach and referrals.

• Match the pace of new business to what the team can actually deliver.

• Work with Decimal corporate on marketing and local growth strategies.

• Manage local advertising, sponsorships, and community presence

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA preferred.

• 7+ years of experience in accounting, advisory, or financial services

• Track record managing client relationships directly.

• Experience reviewing and signing off on complex engagements.

• Experience managing teams that include managers or senior staff.

• Business development or sales experience, including client expansion and proposal work.

Skills & Abilities

• Solid working knowledge of GAAP, IRS regulations, and accounting standards.

• Strong communicator who can advise clients and think beyond the immediate task.

• Financial oversight skills: budgeting, cash flow, and profitability analysis.

• Comfortable with cloud-based accounting platforms and using technology to cut manual work.

• Location: Columbus, IN (candidates must be based in or willing to relocate to the Columbus area).

Decimal’s Values

👍 Do the right thing

🙌 Default to transparency

🤗 Move fast, make things better

🤝 Win together

Decimal is full of passionate people who are driven in a variety of disciplines—and each of them brings their unique perspective to everything they do. We hope you’re feeling excited about the role and our team! Even if you don't feel that you meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We're eager to meet people that believe in Decimal’s mission and can contribute to our team in a variety of ways—not just candidates who check all the boxes. We want people to feel comfortable expressing their true selves and to come, stay and do their best work here.

Creating a safe and inclusive workplace is critical to the success of our company and of our employees, so it’s our aim to recruit, hire and promote without bias against race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, veteran status or any other status protected by applicable law. As we learn and as we grow, we’re committed to ensuring that these ideals are at the forefront of everything we do.