Senior Accountant

Our client in the Chicago Loop is looking for a dynamic and ambitious Senior Accountant to join their team, collaborating closely with our Management team (Controller, FP&A Director, and CFO) to assess, propose, and drive the adoption of optimal practices in our daily operations. This role presents a unique opportunity for a highly motivated individual with a keen eye for detail and strategic thinking to contribute significantly to our growth. As the Senior Accountant, you will play a pivotal role as a key member of their team, leading crucial tasks such as maintaining the general ledger, reviewing and preparing monthly financial statements, conducting reconciliations and analyses of general ledger accounts, providing mentorship to the staff accountant, and shouldering additional responsibilities outlined below. In addition, your expertise will be particularly invaluable as they navigate through the implementation of our new accounting system, presenting an exciting opportunity for you to contribute to the success of this transformative phase and grow with our firm. This position is ideal for someone who is eager to advance their career.

• As Senior Accountant your duties will include but not be limited to: Prepare and analyze financial statements.
• Generate and present financial reports to management and other stakeholders.
• Participate in the month-end and year-end closing processes.
• Prepare manual and automated journal entries.
• Conduct in-depth financial analyses to support decision-making.
• Prepare ad hoc reports and work with CFO, Controller, Practice Leaders and Department Directors.
• Prepare monthly Balance Sheet accounts reconciliations.
• Work with Risk Department to implement and monitor internal controls and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and corporate policies.
• Prepare documentation for external tax advisors to facilitate the preparation of corporate and partnership tax filings.
• Review of externally prepared tax returns to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Conduct research, analysis, and preparation of state, local, and international tax filings to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
• Assist in annual conversion of modified cash basis accounting to accrual accounting for statutory audits, including preparing adjusting journal entries, reconciliations, and support to external auditors.
• Coordinate with various departments across the firm to gather audit support, communicate with auditors, and timely provide deliverables.
• Facilitate the preparation and review of domestic and international financial statements.
• Skills & Competencies: Knowledge of accounting theory and practices for professional service firms.
• Account analysis and reconciliation skills.
• Uphold ethical standards in financial reporting and decision-making.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling financial information.
• Navigate complex financial issues and solve problems efficiently.
• Adapt to changes in accounting standards, regulations, and corporate structures.
• Prioritize tasks and manage time effectively to meet deadlines.
• Handle multiple responsibilities concurrently.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to junior accounting staff.
• Lead and contribute to the development and improvement of accounting processes.
• Effectively communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and provide financial insights.
• Qualifications & Required Experience

: Bachelor's degree in finance or accounting required.

• MBA or other advanced degree in finance or accounting is encouraged.
• CPA highly encouraged.
• Minimum five years of experience within an accounting and finance function required.
• Position also requires the ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines.

Computer Skills:

• To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:

Experience with 3E and Elite Accounting Systems, and business analytic tools strongly preferred.

• Excellent Microsoft Office software skills