Accounting Manager
23 hours ago
Elgin
STRM is partnering with a fast-growing industrial and janitorial supply distributor based in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. Our client is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented, and forward-thinking Accounting Manager with a path to Controller to join our team. This is a key leadership role with direct exposure to ownership and a unique opportunity to help build a modern, technology-driven finance function. Growth Opportunity (Accounting Manager Track): We are excited to hire a high-potential Accounting Manager who is motivated to grow into a Controller role within 35 years. This role offers hands-on exposure to all aspects of the finance function and direct mentorship from ownership. Job Description: • Own monthly financial close, reporting, and accuracy, • Prepare and analyze financial statements, • Improve visibility into margins, profitability, and cost drivers, • Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management, • Oversee accounting, AP, AR, and billing functions, • Handle commission questions, disputes, and sales-related financial issues, • Work directly with a large, dynamic sales team (~130 reps), • Improve internal processes, controls, and accountability, • Optimize and manage ERP system (Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central), • Lead implementation of automation and AI tools across finance, • Support cloud-based workflow transitions and system improvements, • Assist with special financial and operational projects as needed Relevant Skills: • Attention to Detail You take pride in clean, accurate financials and strong controls, • Quantitative Orientation You can interpret financial data, identify trends, and drive decisions, • Process Improvement Mindset You look for ways to make systems faster, cleaner, and more scalable, • Natural Communicator You can work effectively with both accounting staff and sales teams, • Problem Solver You are comfortable handling ambiguity, disputes, and edge cases, • Technology Forward You are curious and comfortable using modern tools, including AI Relevant Experience & Education: • Strong accounting background (CPA preferred but not required), • Experience in distribution, manufacturing, or similar environment preferred, • ERP experience required (Business Central or Dynamics NAV a plus), • Strong Excel and financial modeling skills, • Prior leadership or team management experience preferred, • Candidates must be willing to learn the business deeply and grow into increased responsibility What We Offer: • Competitive compensation: $100,000 $180,000 + bonus potential, • Clear path to Controller / CFO-level leadership, • Direct access to ownership and decision-making, • Opportunity to modernize and shape the finance function, • Fast-paced, entrepreneurial work environment, • Professional growth tied to company expansion What Success Looks Like (First 12 Months): • Faster, cleaner monthly financial reporting, • Improved commission clarity and fewer sales disputes, • Better visibility into product and customer profitability, • Implementation of 23 meaningful automation or efficiency improvements, • Stronger structure across accounting, AP, and AR teams Benefits: • 401(k), • Dental insurance, • Health insurance, • Health savings account, • Opportunities for advancement, • Paid time off, • Professional development assistance, • Tuition reimbursement, • Vision insurance Elgin, IL (on-site preferred, some flexibility)