Accounting Manager (Closely Held Business)

SVA Careers•Brookfield, WI

About The Position

SVA is seeking an Accounting Manager to join its growing Closely Held Business team in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The role offers exposure to several industries and client-facing work, along with opportunities to share accounting knowledge with junior staff and develop through personalized mentoring and learning. The position is highly visible and impactful both within SVA and for its clients. The manager coordinates client engagements from start to finish, supervises client work products, maintains ongoing client relationships, and serves as the primary contact for new client onboarding. The role also assigns and reviews staff work, supports staff development and retention, and participates in hiring and performance evaluation activities. Professional development includes mentoring staff, participating in firm and community activities, expanding client services, and contributing to training and publications. The workload is approximately 60–70% client work, 20–30% supervision and leadership, and 10% professional, personal, and business development. Work typically requires 55 or more hours per week during busy season, including weekends, and 40–45 hours per week during non-busy season. The role is based in Wisconsin.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field.
Minimum of 6 years of experience in public accounting.

Nice To Haves

CPA, EA, or equivalent certification.

Responsibilities

Coordinate all phases of client engagements from start to finish while ensuring budget allocations are achieved.
Supervise the preparation of all work products provided to clients.
Maintain continuous contact with clients throughout the business year and develop a thorough understanding of their businesses.
Serve as the main contact for new client onboarding.
Maintain confidentiality of client information in accordance with applicable laws and regulations and follow SVA policies and procedures.
Assign work to staff members based on their knowledge and capabilities.
Prepare and discuss staff performance evaluations.
Train staff, provide guidance and direction, and give constructive feedback on work papers.
Lead staff development and engagement, support retention, conduct stay interviews, and work with leadership to address themes.
Participate in interview panels and provide individualized recognition to staff.
Transfer client relationships to junior staff when appropriate to ensure work is performed at the right level.
Align with firm strategy and communicate developments to staff.
Work with a mentor to continue developing a career path.
Participate in or lead SVA and community events and professional, civic, or charitable organizations.
Participate actively in a business or industry association and use internal and external learning opportunities.
Mentor multiple members of the accounting staff.
Expand services for existing clients and achieve client retention, cross-selling, and upselling goals.
Develop and present internal and external training, including writing articles for publication.
Perform other duties as assigned.