Resume Writing Tips for Manager Accounts & Administration

Introduction

A resume for a Manager Accounts & Administration position must do more than list job duties. It should clearly demonstrate your ability to manage financial processes, lead administrative teams, and drive improvements that elevate organizational efficiency. Hiring managers look for applicants with a clear impact on business outcomes, proficiency in critical accounting and management tools, and a track record of measurable achievements. This blog deep dives into essential tips to help you create a compelling resume that stands out and passes Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).

1. Resume Summary

Your resume summary is your elevator pitch in written form—a concise paragraph that encapsulates your credentials, expertise, and value proposition. For a Manager Accounts & Administration resume, focus on your leadership experience, accounting proficiency, and administrative effectiveness.

Example: “Results-driven Manager of Accounts & Administration with 8+ years of experience in financial reporting, budget management, and process optimization. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams and implementing strategic initiatives that reduce costs by up to 15%. Proficient in SAP and QuickBooks with a strong ability to interpret financial data and streamline operations.”

2. Key Skills

Highlighting the right key skills is fundamental to catching a recruiter’s eye and passing ATS filters. Include a balanced mix of technical, managerial, and interpersonal skills.

• Financial Reporting & Analysis
• Budgeting & Forecasting
• Regulatory Compliance & Audits
• Team Management & Leadership
• Accounts Payable & Receivable
• Payroll Management
• Process Improvement
• ERP Systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
• Data-driven Decision Making
• Vendor & Stakeholder Management

3. Achievements vs. Responsibilities

While responsibilities describe your job scope, achievements demonstrate the impact you made in those roles. Employers value results-driven resumes that showcase how you contributed to business objectives through leadership and innovation.

For instance, rather than saying “Managed monthly financial statements,” write “Reduced month-end closing time by 20% through process improvements and automation, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.”

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each job application by closely reviewing the job description. Incorporate relevant keywords, industry jargon, and specific skills that the role emphasizes. Tailoring signals to recruiters and ATS that you are a perfect fit.

5. Tools

• SAP ERP
• Oracle Financials
• QuickBooks
• Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
• Microsoft Power BI
• Tableau
• Google Sheets
• Zoom & Microsoft Teams
• Workday
• JD Edwards

6. Metrics

• Cost savings percentage (e.g., “Achieved 15% annual cost reduction”)
• Process efficiency improvements (e.g., “Shortened invoice processing time by 30%”)
• Budget sizes managed (e.g., “Oversaw $5M operational budget”)
• Team size led (e.g., “Managed a team of 12 finance professionals”)
• Audit results (e.g., “Led audits resulting in zero non-compliance issues for 3 consecutive years”)

7. Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• Professional certifications such as CPA, CMA, or PMP (if applicable)

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional layout with clear headings and consistent fonts
• Utilize bullet points to increase readability and make key details stand out

9. Concise

Keep your resume to two pages maximum. Use concise language that packs a punch. Avoid clutter and redundancy. Each word should add value, painting a clear picture of your capabilities and achievements.

10. Bonus

• Include a professional LinkedIn URL and ensure your profile is up-to-date
• Add a section for “Professional Development” or “Training” showcasing ongoing learning and certifications

Examples

• “Implemented automated billing system that reduced errors by 25% and saved 10 hours weekly.”
• “Directed month-end closing procedures across multiple departments, achieving consistent early deadlines by 3 days.”

Conclusion

Crafting a compelling resume for a Manager Accounts & Administration role involves much more than listing experience. Showcasing your leadership, analytical prowess, and tangible impact reinforces your suitability for senior roles. Incorporate key skills, relevant tools, and metrics that quantify your achievements to create a resume that resonates with recruiters and ATS alike. This focused approach not only improves your chances of landing an interview but also positions you as a strategic asset ready to drive organizational success.