Accounting and Operations Manager (Chicago)

A Chicago-based law firm is seeking an organized and detail-oriented Accounting and Operations Manager to oversee a broad range of financial and operational functions. This individual will play an important role in supporting the firm’s day-to-day business operations, with responsibility for bookkeeping, accounts payable, payroll, reconciliations, invoicing, financial reporting, and other administrative processes. The position requires a highly dependable professional who can work independently, manage competing priorities, and maintain accurate and confidential financial information. The ideal candidate will have strong accounting fundamentals, excellent organizational skills, and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing operational needs. Prior experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial operations, particularly within a professional services or law firm environment, is preferred. This position offers a salary range of $80,000 - $90,000 based on experience and a comprehensive and competitive benefits package, including health insurance, generous PTO, and a 401(k) plan.

Responsibilities of the Accounting and Operations Manager:

• Oversee daily bookkeeping responsibilities, maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring transactions, supporting documentation, and other accounting information are properly recorded and organized.
• Manage accounts payable and related financial activity, including processing invoices, paying credit card bills, tracking receipts, preparing invoices, and coordinating payments in a timely manner.
• Complete recurring bank and credit card reconciliations, review financial activity for accuracy, and follow up on discrepancies or outstanding items to ensure records remain current.
• Process payroll and assist with other ongoing accounting responsibilities, maintaining accurate information and ensuring recurring financial activities are completed according to established schedules.
• Prepare and maintain financial reports, budgets, spreadsheets, and other accounting documentation while supporting the firm’s ongoing financial planning and reporting processes.
• Handle various financial and administrative tasks, including check deposits, wire confirmations, W-9 requests, insurance reimbursement invoices, year-end distributions, and other accounting-related needs.
• Coordinate with attorneys, firm leadership, internal staff, and outside accounting professionals as appropriate to support financial and operational processes while maintaining discretion and confidentiality.

Qualifications of the Accounting and Operations Manager:

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, with the ability to manage financial records, transactions, reconciliations, and documentation carefully within a professional and deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to independently prioritize multiple responsibilities and consistently follow through on recurring and time-sensitive tasks.
• Professional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with attorneys, firm leadership, colleagues, and external professionals.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative environment, taking ownership of responsibilities and proactively addressing operational or accounting needs as they arise.
• Previous experience in accounting, bookkeeping, financial administration, or operations is preferred, with experience supporting a law firm or other professional services organization considered a plus.
• Working knowledge of accounting principles, bookkeeping procedures, financial reconciliations, payroll, invoicing, financial reporting, and Microsoft Excel is preferred.
• Demonstrated discretion and sound judgment when handling confidential financial information, along with the flexibility and willingness to take on a varied range of accounting and operational responsibilities within a growing law firm.

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