Director, Lease Accounting

Summary

CRESA is seeking a dynamic Director of Lease Accounting to lead client-facing lease accounting operations. This role is critical in ensuring the accurate application of lease accounting standards (ASC 842/IFRS 16) and delivering best-in-class service to our corporate occupier clients. The ideal candidate will have deep technical accounting knowledge, a strong background in real estate lease administration or lease accounting, and a proven ability to partner effectively with Lease Administration, Transaction Management, Legal, and Client Accounting teams.

Essential duties and responsibilities

• Direct the end-to-end lease accounting function for CRESA’s select client account(s), ensuring compliance with ASC 842 and IFRS 16.
• Serve as the primary accounting liaison to Lease Administration and the client, ensuring data integrity, and seamless flow of information between operational and      financial systems.
• Oversee the use and optimization of lease accounting platforms (e.g., CoStar, etc.) for client portfolios.
• Lead all lease-related accounting activities including ROU asset/liability recognition, lease modifications, terminations, remeasurements, and reconciliations.
• Provide subject matter expertise and technical guidance to internal stakeholders and clients on complex lease structures and their accounting treatment.
• Partner with CRESA’s client team(s) to support outsourced lease accounting solutions, including onboarding, process improvement, and audit support.
• Collaborate with Real Estate, Legal, and Transaction Management teams to review lease agreements for accounting impact prior to execution.
• Drive process enhancements and automation opportunities to improve accuracy, scalability, and efficiency in lease accounting operations.
• Support internal and client financial audits by preparing documentation, reconciliations, and technical memos.
• Mentor and lead a team of accounting professionals and contribute to CRESA’s culture of excellence, service, and innovation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA required)
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience with at least 5 years in lease accounting
• In-depth knowledge of ASC 842 and IFRS 16 lease accounting standards
• Experience working for or with real estate service providers, REITs, or large occupiers of commercial space
• Strong collaboration history with Lease Administration, Real Estate Operations, and Transaction Management teams
• Hands-on experience with lease accounting systems such as CoStar
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical concepts to non-accountants
• Proven leadership ability, including team development, cross-functional influence, and client engagement

Preferred Experience:

• Commercial Real Estate
• Experience supporting third-party lease administration or client accounting programs
• Familiarity with global accounting standards and multi-national portfolios
• SOX compliance and internal controls implementation