Accounting Manager Full-Time Accounting and Finance Aurora, IL Company Overview Our client is a smaller, middle-market, family-owned services organization located in Chicago's western suburbs. The business emphasizes long-term customer relationships, reliable service delivery, and disciplined financial management. Its accounting and finance functions support continued growth through accurate reporting, effective internal controls, and practical financial insights that guide ownership and operational decisions.

Position Summary:

The Accounting Manager oversees daily accounting operations, manages two direct reports, and leads the preparation of accurate, timely financial statements in accordance with

U.S. GAAP.

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the position maintains general ledger integrity, coordinates financial close activities, and strengthens accounting procedures and internal controls. The role combines hands-on accounting responsibilities with staff mentorship and collaboration across the business. The Accounting Manager supports budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management while providing meaningful analysis of revenue, operating expenses, and profitability. The position promotes financial accountability and develops efficient processes that support the company's long-term objectives.

Position Responsibilities:

Leads monthly, quarterly, and annual close activities , including journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation, ensuring accuracy and adherence to established deadlines. Oversees general ledger accounting and transactional processes, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll-related entries, fixed assets, prepaids, and accruals, maintaining compliance with U.S. GAAP and company policies. Manages revenue recognition and billing-related accounting, including unbilled receivables and deferred revenue as applicable, ensuring financial results accurately reflect customer agreements and service delivery. Supervises and mentors two direct reports through clear assignments, workload planning, ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and cross-training, strengthening technical skills and individual accountability. Partners with the Director of Finance and department leaders on annual budgets, financial forecasts, and cash flow projections, providing reliable inputs and clear explanations of performance against plan. Analyzes revenue , labor costs, operating expenses, and profitability by customer, service line, or business unit, providing insights that support pricing, resource allocation, and operational improvements. Maintains effective internal controls , monitors receivables and collection trends, and coordinates supporting schedules and documentation for external accountants, tax advisors, and banking relationships. Improves accounting procedures , ERP utilization, and financial reporting workflows, reducing manual effort, strengthening data accuracy, and supporting efficient operations as the business grows.

Key Qualifications and Attributes:

Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance; a CPA designation is preferred. A minimum of five years of progressive accounting experience, including at least two years of supervisory or team leadership experience; service industry experience is preferred. Demonstrates a thorough understanding of U.S. GAAP, financial statement preparation, general ledger accounting, and internal controls, with the ability to research and resolve accounting issues. Applies practical knowledge of service-based revenue recognition, customer billing, receivables, accrued expenses, and labor cost accounting to maintain accurate financial records. Maintains strong organizational skills and attention to detail, consistently meeting monthly and quarterly deadlines while balancing hands-on responsibilities, staff oversight, and process improvements. Contributes budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and variance analysis experience, translating financial information into practical insights for business leaders. Uses ERP platforms, financial reporting systems, and advanced Microsoft Excel capabilities to reconcile information, improve reporting accuracy, and streamline accounting processes. Demonstrates effective mentorship , sound judgment, discretion, and clear communication with ownership and financial and operational stakeholders; experience in a privately held, family-owned business is preferred.

Compensation:

$110,000 - $130,000 plus bonus potential