Director of Accounting Operations/Assistant Controller

SUMMARY

The Director of Accounting Operations/Assistant Controller will play a key leadership role within the finance team, overseeing critical financial processes for a large, publicly traded asset manager. This individual will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of the monthly close process, coordinating compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) requirements, managing the company's Travel and Entertainment (T&E) policy and continuing to improve efficiencies in the corporate accounting group. This role requires deep expertise in corporate accounting, internal controls, and financial reporting in a global environment.

 

As an onsite/hybrid employee, you are expected to be in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES           

The individual will be involved in the following critical activities:

• Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process utilizing Floqast to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statements for US and foreign subsidiaries.
• Collaborate with various departments, including fund accounting, legal, and tax, to gather necessary financial data.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards (GAAP/IFRS) and corporate policies.
• Drive continuous improvement and reduce cycle time in the monthly close process through the increased utilization of technology and tools.
• Coordinate and oversee SOX compliance efforts across the corporate accounting team.
• Ensure adequate documentation of internal controls over financial reporting.
• Serve as the key liaison between internal and external auditors regarding SOX processes.
• Identify and implement process improvements to strengthen internal controls.
• Manage the company’s Travel & Entertainment (T&E) policy, ensuring adherence to internal guidelines and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Manage T&E vendor relationships.
• Monitor expense reports for accuracy, compliance, and proper approvals.
• Conduct periodic reviews of T&E policy for relevance and recommend updates as necessary.
• Explore automation of approvals for out of policy requests
• Lead and mentor a team of accounting professionals, providing guidance, development, and performance management.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and accountability within the corporate accounting team.
• Collaborate with fund accounting, tax, legal, and other departments to ensure alignment on financial reporting, compliance, and operational matters.
• Act as a key point of contact for external auditors, providing necessary documentation and explanations during the audit process.

 

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; CPA or equivalent certification required.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including experience at a publicly traded company with at least 5 years in a leadership role demonstrating strong managerial skills and team development.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, and SOX compliance requirements.
• Experience working in asset management, financial services, or a similar industry is preferred.
• Proven track record in managing financial close processes and overseeing compliance initiatives.
• Experience with managing global entities and foreign subsidiaries is a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across functions and geographies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a high attention to detail.
• Proficiency in financial systems including PeopleSoft, OneStream and Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with Concur or other Travel & Expense reporting systems.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a dynamic environment, showing flexibility and adaptability.

 

In terms of cultural fit, the successful candidate will be self-motivated and energized by working amongst a group of thoughtful, smart and successful colleagues. He or she will enjoy being part of an organization focused on excellence and will be a naturally collaborative person who enjoys interacting with individuals at all levels. Additionally, he or she will be a strong team player with a proactive approach and the ability to exercise discretion and judgment.

 

It is expected that the annual base salary range for this Chicago based position will be $160,000 - $210,000. Actual base salary may vary based on factors such as individual's experience, skills, and qualifications for the role.  Employees may be eligible f