Accounting Manager

Morningstar • Chicago, IL

4d • $121,400 - $186,150 • Hybrid

About The Position

Morningstar is seeking an Accounting Manager to oversee monthly close processes, research and resolve accounting issues, ensure SOX compliance, and partner with auditors. This role involves managing accounting staff, supporting M&A activities, preparing financial analyses, and identifying opportunities for process improvement and automation, including AI-driven enhancements. The manager will also collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement new technologies and tools.

Requirements

• CPA designation
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience (public accounting and/or publicly held company)
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial reporting
• Demonstrated experience reviewing work and mentoring team members
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong documentation skills for routine and complex transactions (audit-level support)
• Strong understanding of SOX/internal controls and ability to guide others
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office / Co-Pilot

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee monthly close processes, including preparation, review and approval of journal entries and account reconciliations
• Research and resolve day-to-day general ledger accounting issues, and assist with the resolution of significant, complex, transactions to ensure proper application of GAAP
• Review general ledger activity and investigate variances or unusual transactions
• Ensure continued compliance with SOX/internal control requirements and proactively identify control enhancements
• Partner with internal and external auditors to support quarterly and year-end audits, including managing audit requests
• Assist in the creation of accounting policies and procedures
• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, providing guidance on technical accounting and process execution
• Manage team priorities and workload while promoting a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development
• Support M&A activities, including purchase accounting and post-acquisition integration activities
• Prepare and review periodic and ad-hoc financial analyses to provide performance analysis and drive actionable insights
• Leverage data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improved financial performance
• Identify and implement opportunities to standardize streamline and automate accounting processes
• Partner with cross functionals teams to identify opportunities for AI-driven enhancements within accounting processes
• Partner with cross functional teams to implement new technologies and tools
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned

Benefits

• 100% 401k match up to 6% of salary
• Stock Ownership Potential
• Company provided life insurance - 1x salary + commission
• Comprehensive health benefits (medical/dental/vision) including potential premium discounts and company-provided HSA contributions (up to $500-$2,000 annually) for specific plans and coverages
• Additional medical Wellness Incentives - up to $300-$600 annual
• Company-provided long- and short-term disability insurance
• Trust-Based Time Off
• 6-week Paid Sabbatical Program
• 6-Week Paid Family Caregiving Leave
• Competitive 8-24 Week Paid Parental Leave
• Adoption Assistance
• Leadership Coaching & Formal Mentorship Opportunities
• Annual Flex Stipend - $1000 annually to cover personal education & well-being expenses
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Charitable Matching Gifts program
• Dollars for Doers volunteer program
• Paid volunteering days
• 15+ Employee Resource & Affinity Groups

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager