Jobs · Accounting · Illinois

Assistant Controller/ Accounting Manager

Bornquist Inc. · Northbrook, IL · 2 wk ago
On-siteAccountingFull-time

About the Role

The Assistant Controller supports the Controller in overseeing the company's accounting operations and financial reporting functions. This role is ideal for a highly skilled accounting professional who can operate with significant autonomy, contribute to strategic financial initiatives, and partner across the organization to strengthen financial processes and controls. The Assistant Controller plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information while driving process improvements, supporting compliance, and contributing to the organization's continued growth and success.

Responsibilities

  • Leads and manages all day-to-day accounting functions including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, cash management, and banking activities.
  • Drives execution of monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring deadlines are met and results are accurate.
  • Prepares and consolidates financial statements and supporting schedules, including balance sheets, income statements, cash flow reports, and variance analysis.
  • Reviews and ensures accuracy of account reconciliations, journal entries, and transactional outputs.
  • Implements and enforces accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls established by the Controller.
  • Builds and maintains budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support planning and decision-making.
  • Analyzes financial results, identifies trends, and provides recommendations to the Controller and management.
  • Coordinates and prepares audit schedules and supporting documentation; serves as a primary liaison during audit fieldwork.
  • Supports tax compliance by preparing required documentation and ensuring accurate reporting across payroll, sales/use, and other tax areas.
  • Monitors and manages receivables and payables processes to ensure effective cash flow and risk mitigation.
  • Identifies and drives improvements in accounting systems, workflows, and reporting processes.
  • Researches accounting issues and recommends appropriate treatment for Controller review and approval.
  • Acts as backup to the Controller, stepping into leadership responsibilities as needed.
  • Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

  • Supervises and oversees the daily work of Accounting Department staff, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable/Collections, and Bookkeeping functions.
  • Plans, assigns, and reviews work to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to deadlines.
  • Provides training, coaching, and performance feedback to team members.
  • Supports hiring and onboarding of accounting personnel.
  • Ensures alignment between accounting operations and cross-functional departments including Order Processing, Billing, Service, Purchasing, and Warehouse.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
  • 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including full-cycle accounting and financial reporting.
  • Prior experience in a senior accountant or accounting manager role strongly preferred.
  • CPA certification preferred (or actively pursuing).
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams).
  • Experience with ERP systems; Epicor Prophet 21 experience is a plus.

Skills

  • Strong working knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
  • Proven ability to lead the close process and produce accurate financial statements.
  • Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
  • Ability to analyze financial data and translate it into actionable insights.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage workflows and improve processes.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and cross-functional teams.
  • High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and accountability.

Competencies

  • Diversity: Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; educates others on the value of diversity; promotes a harassment-free environment; builds a diverse workforce.
  • Execution & Ownership Mindset: Takes responsibility for delivering accurate and timely financial results.
  • Analytical & Problem Solving: Gathers and analyzes data, identifies issues, and develops practical solutions.
  • Business Acumen: Understands operational impacts on financial performance and supports informed decision-making.
  • Leadership Development: Demonstrates readiness to take on increased responsibility and future ownership of the accounting function.
  • Communication: Clearly communicates financial information and recommendations to stakeholders.
  • Professionalism & Integrity: Maintains high ethical standards and accountability in all work.

Benefits

  • Medical (HMO, HSA & PPO options)
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Generous Profit Sharing and 401k Program
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Employee Discounts through ADP LifeMart/LifeCare
  • Paid Time Off

Physical Demands and Work Environment

  • Frequently required to stand, walk, and sit.
  • Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
  • Frequently required to talk or hear.
  • Frequently utilize visual acuity to read technical information, and/or use a keyboard.
  • Occasionally required to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds.
  • Occasionally required to bend, stoop, or kneel.

Similar jobs