Assistant Controller (Azalea Wang)

AKIRA • Chicago, IL

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Azalea Wang is seeking a highly analytical and operationally minded Assistant Controller to support and oversee the company's accounting operations. This role will manage the day-to-day accounting functions, including AR, AP, and the monthly close process, while ensuring accurate, timely financial reporting and strong internal controls.
The ideal candidate has a minimum of 7 years of progressive accounting experience, a strong operational background, a deep understanding of inventory in wholesale and or CPG/retail environments, and demonstrated experience managing a small team. This role requires strong systems expertise and the ability to partner cross-functionally to improve processes and drive financial visibility across the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA preferred but not required)
• 7+ years of accounting experience, preferably in wholesale footwear/apparel, retail or CPG
• Strong understanding of inventory accounting and cost of goods sold
• Experience managing direct reports
• Advanced Excel skills; strong ERP/system experience (NetSuite preferred)
• Proven ability to improve processes and implement controls
• Highly analytical with strong attention to detail
• Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
• Operational mindset with hands-on execution capability

Nice To Haves

• Understands high-volume transactional environments
• Has built or improved accounting processes
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial company
• Balances strategic thinking with strong execution

Responsibilities

• Responsible for Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable functions
• Manage and execute the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process
• Ensure accurate revenue recognition, inventory accounting, and expense accruals
• Maintain integrity of the general ledger and supporting workpapers
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial schedules
• Ensure accurate inventory accounting across stores and eCommerce
• Oversee inventory reconciliations, reserves, and shrink analysis
• Partner with operations and merchandising on inventory controls and reporting
• Support COGS analysis and gross margin reporting
• Prepare monthly financial statements and supporting schedules
• Perform detailed variance analysis (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow)
• Identify trends, risks, and opportunities in financial performance
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes
• Review work for accuracy and completeness
• Lead accounting system improvements and automation initiatives
• Optimize workflows to increase efficiency and reduce errors
• Ensure strong internal controls and documentation of processes
• Partner with IT and operations on system integrations and enhancements
• Collaborate with operations, merchandising, sales, and eCommerce teams
• Ensure accurate reporting of sales, inventory, and expenses
• Support leadership with ad hoc financial analysis

Benefits

• AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and a generous employee discount.
• We're committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

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