An accountant is a financial professional who manages, analyzes, and reports an organization's financial data, ensuring accuracy, compliance with regulations (like GAAP/IFRS), and providing insights for strategic decisions. Key duties include preparing financial statements, managing accounts payable/receivable, processing payroll, handling taxes, conducting audits, and reconciling accounts to maintain financial health and support growth. They act as stewards of financial information, using skills in technology, attention to detail, and communication to guide businesses.