Senior Manager of Accounting Operations

Job Details

Description

Our client in downtown Chicago is looking for a Senior Manager of Accounting Operations. The Senior Manager of Accounting Operations will oversee the Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) functions to ensure efficient and accurate financial operations. In this influential leadership role, we seek a strategic leader with exceptional analytical skills, keen attention to detail, and the ability to effectively manage both processes and a team. The Senior Manager will continuously evaluate, improve and enhance departmental processes, striving to improve quality, productivity and efficiency.

Position Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead and mentor direct reports, including the Collections Manager, AP Manager and Accounting Specialist, offering strategic guidance on high-level projects while ensuring overall effectiveness and efficiency of the department
• Manage the training and integration of new team members, identifying opportunities for promotion or professional growth
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external clients, promptly addressing any AP or AR issues as they arise

Financial Oversight:

• Work directly with the Collections Manager to review accounts receivable aging reports, monitoring overdue balances and tracking collection efforts and application of client payments
• Oversee the invoice and payment processes, working with the AP Manager, ensuring effective management of team workflows and clear, consistent communication
• Analyze trends and provide actionable insights to improve Firm financial performance on client collections
• Establish goals and KPIs for the AP and AR functions, regularly monitoring progress and providing weekly reporting to key stakeholders
• Manage the month-end close process for A/P and A/R functions, ensuring thorough and accurate reconciliations of related accounts

Process Improvement & Compliance:

• Identify and execute strategic process enhancements and industry best practices to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the accounts receivable and payable operations
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures for AP and AR, providing ongoing to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures
• Establish and execute communication plans for Firm-wide processes or procedural changes
• Conduct annual reviews to establish priorities and goals for the AP and AR teams, aligning their objectives with the Firm’s strategic plan and overall direction Accounting and Finance groups

Audit & Compliance:

• Ensure timely fulfilment of all audit requirements pertaining to accounts payable and receivable requests
• Work with the AP management team on vendor W-9 documentation, annual 1099 reporting, unclaimed property review and reporting
• Ensure confidentiality and data security at all times

Technology and Innovation:

• Leverage technology and automation to streamline processes and reduce manual work
• Stay updated on industry best practices and integrate them into departmental operations

Skills & Competencies:

• Experience in managing a full-cycle high volume accounts payable and accounts receivables teams, with a track record of proven leadership and implementing process improvements
• Demonstrate exceptional organizational, time management and execution skills
• Analytical skills and a basic understanding of accounting principles
• Proven ability to be self-motivated, proactive, resourceful, work well under strict deadlines and exhibit a team player attitude
• Ability to analyze/interpret data and take appropriate action
• Exhibit strong leadership and initiative, fostering positive relationships and effective communication across all levels of the organization
• Possess sound judgment and strong decision making abilities, with excellent interpersonal skills and the capability to express ideas clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally
• Skilled in delivering constructive feedback to foster career development and professional growth
• Experience in developing and documenting policies and procedures, as well as managing implementations and process solutions
• Be a leader who can act, lead and operate independently with minimal daily direction to accomplish objectives
• Uphold the highest standards of ethics and confidentiality at all times
• Maintain a positive attitude and professional disposition

Qualifications & Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required with at least 10 years of experience in accounting operations, with a focus on AP and AR
• Experience managing a full-cycle high volume accounts payable team with proven leadership and process improvement skills
• Position also requires the ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines

Software Skills:

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

• Experience with Elite financial system (Enterprise or 3E) or other major accounting software
• Experience with Chrome River and collections software (preferred)
• Excellent Microsoft Excel and Word skills required