Jackie Elia, Accountant
“Clinical research” and “accounting” don’t often generate similar images in your mind, but at Medpace, it’s essential these two work together. As a full-service Contract Research Organization, teams across the company collaborate towards our shared mission in driving better outcomes. An essential function, who ensures we can continue our mission, is our Finance team. Organizing important financial records, managing funding, and accurately reporting large quantities of data are just some of the crucial responsibilities the group performs.
July’s Monthly Role Spotlight features a member of the Finance team: Accountant Jackie Elia. Jackie covers her experience from her internship to her education background to advice for aspiring finance professionals.
You began your Medpace career as an intern and later returned full-time. What drew you back after your internship?
The people at Medpace were the main reason that I chose to return full time. I appreciated that I was treated as an equal team member, even though I was just an intern. Everyone I met was happy to help me with anything I needed, both in and outside the workplace. I stayed in contact with many of my coworkers who gave advice and acted as mentors as I finished college. These relationships made me want to return to Medpace so that I could continue working with such a great group of people.
Describe your experience in the transition from your internship to your full-time role.
The transition from an intern to a full-time Accountant has been very smooth. My internship involved similar work to full-time Accountants, rather than just doing coffee runs. This experience allowed me to jump right into a full-time position, as I already knew many of our systems and processes. It was also helpful to have established relationships with everyone on the team so that I didn’t have to start fresh with a new set of people.
Why did you pursue this role?
Many accounting graduates pursue roles in public accounting, and, despite the pressure to conform, I knew that I did not want to pursue that path. Even though I didn’t choose a career traditionally known for helping people, I still wanted to make a difference in the world. As I researched Medpace and learned that they research the very conditions that many of my friends and family have been impacted by, I knew it would be a perfect fit.
What role does an Accountant play in clinical research?
While an Accountant is likely not the first job you think of when you hear the words “clinical research,” they do play an important role in research. Medpace’s Accountants ensure that financial information is accurately represented in Medpace’s financial statements. It is important that this information is reported accurately, as Medpace could face large consequences if not, which could negatively impact the functioning of clinical research. Our role as Accountants is to ensure that research can be completed without such roadblocks.
Why should someone consider a path as an Accountant at Medpace?
Anyone pursuing a job in the accounting field, especially new graduates, should consider applying to Medpace. The accounting department at Medpace provides great support for those just beginning their career, including training on systems and processes applicable to the general accounting field. While you learn a lot in college, nothing compares to real world experience. Medpace ensures that new employees feel supported and welcomed in their transition into the workforce.
In your own words, what are three key job responsibilities?
The main responsibilities of an Accountant at Medpace are ensuring that financial records are represented accurately, reconciling such records, and supporting local and external accountants. Accountants must ensure that financial records comply with U.S. requirements as well as local requirements in the many foreign countries Medpace operates. Accountants must also show compliance with these requirements by reconciling and providing support for changes to the financial records. Additionally, compliance with such requirements involves providing information and performing tasks for local and external accountants.
Find your career.
At Medpace, candidates with a variety of backgrounds have the opportunity to make an impact on people around the world. Browse open Accountant positions and start turning your passion into progress.
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