Technical Accounting Manager

Morningstar•Chicago, IL

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Role: Morningstar is seeking a Technical Accounting Manager to join our global Finance organization, which is focused on business partnership, innovation, automation, and process improvement. The Technical Accounting Manager is responsible for providing technical accounting research on complex issues and supporting the organization in interpreting and implementing new accounting standards. This role acts as a subject matter expert, collaborating with the controllership, financial planning and analysis, financial reporting, audit, and business teams to address technical accounting matters. This position reports to the Director – Financial Reporting. This is a full-time role based in our Chicago office. We are operating in a hybrid environment where we are in-office 4 days/week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting is required.
CPA is required.
Minimum of 5-7 years of accounting experience, including experience with a Big 4 accounting firm (National Office experience preferred) and/or related SEC reporting experience at a large, multi-national, publicly held corporation.
Big 4 public accounting experience is preferred.
Strong knowledge of US GAAP, including SEC reporting requirements.
Ability to multi-task and manage shifting priorities and deadlines, with attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of large and small cross-functional teams.
Proven ability to build relationships with team members, business leaders, and global accounting functions.
Forward thinking attitude with a continuous improvement mindset.
Excellent documentation skills for developing audit work papers and completing SOX reviews.
Strong skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office programs (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Word).

Responsibilities

Research, interpret, and apply accounting standards and interpretive guidance to complex and/or non-routine transactions (e.g., acquisitions, divestitures, significant investments).
Prepare technical accounting memos and documentation to support accounting decisions and present conclusions to senior management and external auditors.
Advise finance and business teams on the accounting implications of new or potential business initiatives, contracts, and transactions.
Monitor changes in accounting standards and assess their impact on Morningstar’s financial statements and accounting policies.
Inform and support various stakeholders throughout the implementation of new accounting standards.
Assist in the preparation and review of financial statements and disclosures for accuracy and completeness, with dedicated responsibility for the disclosure checklist and the following areas: investments, goodwill, intangibles, and significant accounting policies.
Benchmark peer company filings to inform and enhance financial statement disclosures.
Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes and controls related to technical areas.
Support the external audit process by providing technical guidance and responding to auditor inquiries.
Assist with special or ad hoc projects as needed.

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