The Accounting Manager reports to the Assistant Controller and is responsible for leading the corporate accounting staff through the monthly and annual financial close process. This individual plays a critical role ensuring the financial statements are appropriately stated, and documented controls are executed in a timely manner. The corporate accounting team is responsible for organizing the annual external audit and related financial statements and footnote disclosures. This position is responsible for accounting research as it applies to changes in GAAP or company accounting policies. The role and responsibilities of this position include the following:

• Maintains up to date knowledge of GAAP and tax as it pertains to the Firm’s accounting operations and ensures any new pronouncements/regulations are effectively incorporated into the corporate accounting operations. Assists ensuring staff have the appropriate accounting and tax knowledge to perform their jobs. Provides technical guidance to others as needed.
• Research any technical issues that arise and maintain documentation of accounting policies utilized by the Firm (revenue recognition, intercompany transactions, tax transactions, etc.)
• Lead the maintenance of the GL for multiple international entities including an understanding of the conversion from local currency to USD consolidated.
• Manage the preparation of the Firm’s annual audited financial statements and footnotes, including coordinating the completion of the firm-wide financial audit, including relevant audit schedules.
• Assist with the transition of the accrual financials in the accounting system, identify any process improvements and lead the changes.
• Manage the preparation of stand-alone financial statements for specific offices on an accrual basis including accurate accounting of currency impact for stand-alone financials. 
• Lead the accounting of lease transactions in accordance with ASC 842 in the financial accounting system.
• Manage a team of accountants responsible for general ledger maintenance, fixed asset recording, balance sheet account reconciliation, foreign exchange, accounting controls, and financial analysis including monthly account analysis.
• Manage the timely preparation and analysis of monthly cash basis and annual accrual financial statements, including review of monthly financial results.
• Ensure all general ledger transactions are properly recorded on a timely basis, and that all balance sheet accounts are regularly reconciled, reviewed and adequately documented.
• Oversee the management of the fixed asset area including review of capital expenditure purchases, forecasting of expenditures, and record keeping of asset inventory.
• Oversee the journal entry process including all payroll journal entries for all domestic and foreign locations;
• Responsible for review of team’s work and ensuring deliverables to management are error free and meet deadlines.
• Responsible for staff development including, training on systems, policies and procedures. Provide regular feedback and coaching, including hiring and retention of staff.
• Ensure adequate internal controls and procedures are in place and working effectively for any area of responsibility.
• Responsible for the analysis, management and implementation of financial initiatives in relation to any area of responsibility.
• Assist in the Firm-wide annual budget and projection process and monthly financial reporting process.
• Understand the service business needs of multiple departments and develop a strong understanding of Firm operations and the law firm industry.
• Complete special projects as assigned and provide direction to staff.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. If an estimated salary range for this role is available, it will be provided in our Target Salary Range section. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education and/or Experience: 

Required:

• Bachelor of Science and/or Master’s degree in Accountancy
• Current CPA with minimum of 10 years of relevant accounting experience
• Experience managing a team and developing staff
• Experience performing and managing accounting activities such as complex account reconciliations and analysis, preparation of financial statements, and application of accounting policies
• Experience working on a large ERP accounting platform and partnering with IT systems in maintaining the inter-workings of the system
• Knowledge of payroll recording, including payroll taxes and benefits
• Ability to interact effectively with other departments and lead change
• Up-to-date knowledge of and ability to research GAAP and related guidance

Preferred:

• Professional Service industry experience

Other Skills and Abilities

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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