Find Jobs
Find Jobs Near You – Available Work in Your Location
Skip to job details
C
Confidential
Accounting Manager
Career Insights for Accounting Manager
See where this job fits in the broader career landscape. Knowing your career path helps you see what's possible from here.
Scorecard
Based on Illinois data
Review key factors to help you decide if this role fits your goals. How is this calculated?
What they do
An Accounting Manager manages the accounting department of a company or organization. Directs the accounting staff that prepare financial statements and business activity and forecasting reports and tax filings. Monitors accounting data. Implements and manages accounting policies and procedures. Advises management with regard to finance decisions.
$149,009 / year median in Illinois
-14% projected decline
Job Description
Accounting Manager Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Accounting Manager to serve as a key financial leader and strategic business partner within a growing organization. This role is responsible for financial management, reporting accuracy, internal controls, cash flow oversight, and operational decision support. The ideal candidate combines strong technical accounting expertise with a hands-on, business-oriented mindset. This individual will drive financial performance, accountability, process improvement, and operational excellence while partnering closely with leadership across the organization. Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations Lead the preparation, review, and analysis of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP and company policies. Prepare and analyze P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow reports. Perform variance analysis and identify key drivers impacting financial performance. Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic and operational decision-making. Present financial results and key business insights to leadership. Accounting & Controls Manage and oversee the month-end and year-end close processes. Ensure accuracy and completeness of journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules. Drive improvements in accounting processes, reporting efficiency, and financial visibility. Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance. Support internal and external audits and implement recommendations as needed. Perform risk assessments and identify opportunities for control enhancements. Coordinate with external tax advisors regarding income tax filings and related compliance matters. Ensure compliance with financial reporting and statutory requirements. Manage sales and use tax compliance activities. Oversee fixed asset accounting, including capitalization, depreciation, and asset disposals. Support inventory counts and related audit procedures. Finance Business Partnership Serve as a trusted financial advisor to operational leadership. Provide actionable insights to improve profitability, margins, and working capital performance. Translate operational metrics into meaningful financial indicators. Develop business cases, ROI analyses, and capital expenditure evaluations. Partner with operations, supply chain, sales, and marketing teams to improve business performance. Support pricing strategies, contract reviews, and cost analysis initiatives. Budgeting, Forecasting & Planning Lead the annual budgeting process. Develop and maintain forecasts for revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Identify business risks and opportunities and recommend corrective actions. Support long-range financial planning initiatives. Cash Flow & Working Capital Management Monitor and improve working capital performance, including inventory, receivables, and payables. Develop and maintain cash flow forecasts. Identify opportunities to strengthen liquidity and optimize capital utilization. Leadership & Team Development Lead, mentor, and develop accounting team members. Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Serve as a liaison between operational teams and finance leadership. Drive process improvement initiatives, automation efforts, and ERP optimization projects. Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. CPA designation strongly preferred. Experience 6+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience. Minimum of 2 years in an Accounting Manager, Controller, Finance Manager, or similar leadership role. Experience managing financial reporting, month-end close, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow, internal controls, and audits. Experience in a multi-entity, manufacturing, distribution, project-based, or similar operational environment preferred. Experience working in a fast-paced, growth-oriented organization preferred. Technical Skills Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements. Experience with ERP systems (NetSuite preferred). Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills. Experience with Power BI or other business intelligence/reporting tools is a plus. Preferred Competencies Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and business partnering abilities. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. High level of integrity, accountability, and professional judgment. Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on operational excellence. Experience with job costing, work-in-process (WIP) accounting, and project-based financial management is a plus.