Assistant Controller - Accounting Operations

DRW•Chicago, IL

3d•$130,000 - $170,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Controller – Accounting Operations will be a proactive leader who values accuracy, efficiency and teamwork and who embraces continuous improvement to drive measurable results. This role will be responsible for leading and developing a team as well as fostering relationships with functions across the organization.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field; CPA or equivalent preferred.
10+ years of progressive accounting experience with at least 4–5 years focused on accounts payable or procure‑to‑pay in a multi‑entity, global environment.
Prior experience in a supervisory or team lead role; experience as an AP manager, senior accountant or assistant controller preferred.
Strong working knowledge of accounting principles, month‑end close and internal controls.
Hands‑on experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and AP automation tools; proven track record implementing process improvements.
Excellent analytical, problem‑solving and organizational skills; ability to manage multiple priorities and handle high‑pressure, time‑sensitive requests.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills; ability to influence change across regions and functions.
Detail oriented, process-driven and committed to continuous improvement.
Flexibility to work across time zones; occasional travel may be required

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee all accounts payable activities globally, including invoice processing, approvals, vendor payments, expense reimbursements, credit memos and vendor reconciliations, ensuring timely execution.
Implement and drive global process standardization and automation initiatives to streamline workflow, reduce manual effort, improve controls and improve vendor/service levels.
Oversee operating expense accrual process. Analyze expense trends, identify unusual items or variances and recommend corrective actions.
Review monthly operating expense activity for accuracy and appropriate GL coding by partnering with internal stake holders.
Manage and support ad hoc high‑priority requests (e.g., business questions, audit inquiries, one‑off payments) with urgency and accuracy.
Supervise, mentor and regional AP teams; allocate resources and set clear performance expectations.
Collaborate with Procurement, Tax, and cross‑functional stakeholders to resolve issues and continuously improve full cycle AP processes.
Lead ERP/AP system improvements, rollouts or upgrades working with IT and vendors to support overall accounting operations.
Manage vendor relationships and resolve escalated disputes or discrepancies quickly and gracefully; ensure excellent vendor service and timely resolution.
Document policies and procedures over AP and operating expenses; ensure compliance with corporate policies, local regulations and audit requirements.