Accounting Manager
Chicago Public Media is one of the nation’s largest local nonprofit news organizations. Home to WBEZ 91.5FM, the Chicago Sun-Times, and Vocalo, we reach more than 3.3 million people weekly across broadcast, print, and digital platforms. As a mission-driven, 100% community-funded newsroom powered by nearly 97,000 members, we aspire to be the most trusted news source for understanding the people, events, and ideas shaping Chicago.
About the role
The Accounting Manager is a hands-on, highly analytical individual with a strong foundation in not-for-profit and/or public accounting. This role leads daily accounting operations, ensuring compliance and control while bridging technical GAAP requirements with day-to-day operational excellence. The Accounting Manager oversees the general ledger, drives month-end close cycles, and ensures audit readiness. This position supervises three direct reports—an Accounting Supervisor and two Staff Accountants—and collaborates across all levels of the organization to support compliance with agency and programmatic requirements.
The ideal candidate is a disciplined, analytical thinker who investigates the "why" behind financial data, identifies trends and anomalies, and translates them into actionable insights. This role requires strong communication skills to convey financial narratives clearly and concisely.
Responsibilities
- Maintain the general ledger by monitoring and ensuring accuracy of accounting transactions, journal entries, and reconciliations performed by the team.
- Lead the month-end close process, ensuring adherence to a prescribed close calendar.
- Oversee the close of Accounts Payable and Fixed Assets subledgers.
- Lead monthly departmental review meetings to analyze variances, establish accruals, and document corrections for financial reporting.
- Partner in preparing monthly financial statements and variance analysis for the CEO’s financial reporting package.
- Ensure readiness for CPM’s annual financial audit, tax filings, and regulatory and grantor reporting.
- Assist with corporate sponsorship financial operations as needed.
- Participate in ACH approval and initiate wire transfers as needed.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of not-for-profit and/or public accounting experience with increasing levels of responsibility, including management of direct reports.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related field.
- CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
Skills
- Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting.
- Proficiency in Sage Intacct, Limelight, and advanced MS Excel.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for all organizational levels.
- Intellectual curiosity, initiative, and a strong work ethic.
- Collaborative team player with a positive attitude.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to assess data accuracy and integrity.
- Problem-solving skills in a dynamic environment.
- Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- High level of discretion to maintain confidentiality.
Pay
The expected pay range for this position is $88,000 to $115,000 per year.
Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Paid vacation and holidays.
- Life insurance and disability coverage.
- Retirement savings plan.
- Commuter benefits plan.
Chicago Public Media fosters a collaborative, innovative culture that values diverse ideas and experiences. We are committed to supporting employees and their families through a broad and generous benefits package.