Manager, Financial Accounting

Cars Commerce • Chicago, IL

2d • $104,100 - $130,150

About The Position

Cars Commerce is seeking a Manager, Financial Accounting to support its Accounting team. Reporting to the Director, Financial Accounting and Transformation, this role helps drive an accurate and timely month-end close, supports SEC filings, and partners on finance initiatives to modernize financial infrastructure and processes. The ideal candidate is a technically strong accountant with public company experience and a focus on process improvement.

The role leads financial close and reporting activities, supports technical accounting and SEC compliance, and coordinates with auditors and internal stakeholders. It also manages and develops accounting professionals and contributes to finance transformation initiatives, including system testing, upgrades, and the development of reporting tools.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA certification.
• At least 7 years of progressive financial accounting experience with increasing responsibility.
• Strong technical knowledge of US GAAP and SOX internal controls.
• Experience supporting SEC reporting, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team.
• Proficiency with AI tools such as Claude, Gemini, or ChatGPT for technical research, workflow efficiency, and financial narrative writing.
• Advanced Excel and Google Suite skills.
• Exceptional analytical skills and high attention to detail.
• Clear and effective written and verbal communication.
• Collaborative, approachable, self-directed approach and a strong sense of ownership.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt quickly in a fast-moving environment.

Nice To Haves

• Big 4 or mid-tier public accounting experience combined with a corporate accounting background.
• Exposure to ERP systems and financial transformation or process improvement initiatives.
• PeopleSoft experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring financial statements are prepared accurately and on time in accordance with US GAAP and SEC rules and regulations.
• Prepare and review consolidated financial statements, journal entries, and account reconciliations.
• Assist in preparing and reviewing SEC filings, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and related earnings materials.
• Prepare supporting materials for Executive Leadership Team, Audit Committee, and Board of Director presentations.
• Coordinate with internal and external auditors on quarterly reviews and the annual audit.
• Execute and maintain internal controls over financial reporting in compliance with SOX requirements.
• Support treasury operations through daily cash reporting and share repurchase tracking, including automated report generation.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on evolving GAAP guidance, including interpretations for SaaS arrangements, cloud computing, and M&A integration accounting.
• Lead cross-functional implementation efforts for new accounting standards and translate technical requirements into operational procedures.
• Review and approve high-risk journal entries and team workpapers for accuracy, GAAP adherence, and audit readiness.
• Provide feedback and mentoring to team members on complex accounting judgments and documentation standards.
• Collaborate with external auditors on judgmental accounting areas and provide supporting documentation.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a team of accounting professionals, supporting performance and professional growth.
• Build cross-functional relationships across Finance, FP&A, Legal, and other departments to support accurate financial reporting.
• Support the design and testing of financial reporting processes, including System Integration Testing (SIT) and User Acceptance Testing (UAT).
• Partner with IT, Finance leadership, and external consultants to ensure accounting requirements are captured and satisfied in system upgrades.
• Drive development of financial reports, dashboards, and analytical tools to improve team efficiency and insight.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision healthcare plans.
• New hire stipend for home office setup.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid holidays, floating holiday, volunteer day, and recharge day.
• Some roles may be eligible for bonus and/or equity programs, depending on level and role.

What This Job Offers

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