Accounting Manager - Chicago

About the role

Harrison LLP is seeking an Accounting Manager to join our Chicago office and partner directly with the Director of Finance. This is a hybrid, three (3) days per week in-office role responsible for strengthening and scaling the Firm’s finance function.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the Firm’s general ledger, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and integrity of financial data.
• Supervise and develop a team of four (Senior Accountant, Junior Accountant, AP Clerk, AR Clerk), providing guidance, mentorship, and performance oversight.
• Lead and manage core accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and review financial statements, ensuring timeliness and accuracy.
• Support the annual budgeting process, including preparation, tracking, and variance analysis.
• Evaluate existing accounting processes and workflows; identify inefficiencies and implement improvements to enhance accuracy and operational efficiency.
• Drive process implementation and continuous improvement initiatives, with a focus on building scalable, efficient, and well-documented workflows.
• Develop, document, and maintain internal controls and accounting policies aligned with best practices.
• Collaborate closely with the Director of Finance on financial reporting, forecasting, and strategic initiatives.
• Oversee and execute special projects, as assigned by the Director of Finance, supporting evolving firm priorities.
• Serve as a key point of contact for resolving accounting issues and answering complex financial questions.
• Support audit preparation and ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and internal controls.
• Step in tactically when needed while maintaining a focus on building sustainable, scalable processes.
• Drive continuous improvement across the finance function, bringing structure and clarity to evolving or ambiguous areas.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Experience overseeing general ledger, AP/AR functions, and financial reporting processes.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and full-cycle accounting operations.
• Experience supervising or mentoring accounting staff.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to “figure things out” in complex or ambiguous situations.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally.
• Natural curiosity and initiative, with a desire to understand not just tasks, but the “why” behind them.
• Comfort operating in evolving environments and building scalable solutions.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership.

Qualifications

• Experience in a law firm environment.
• Experience with Aderant or similar legal accounting systems.
• Demonstrated ability to improve processes, improve workflows, and drive operational efficiency.
• Natural curiosity and initiative, with a desire to understand not just tasks, but the “why” behind them.
• Comfort operating in evolving environments and building scalable solutions.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a strong sense of ownership.

Skills

• Strong organizational and attention to detail skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with Aderant or similar legal accounting systems.
• Experience improving processes and workflows.
• Experience in a law firm environment.

Benefits

Harrison LLP offers a comprehensive benefits package including personal time off, Firm paid holidays, medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).

Pay

$130,000 – $160,000 annually. Compensation decisions depend on a wide range of factors including but not limited to experience and training, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Schedule

This role will be eligible for a hybrid schedule with three days per week in our Chicago office.