Audit Manager

About The JobLooking for a public accounting firm that trades rigid hierarchy for true collaboration?Based in Northbrook, IL, we are an established Chicago-area CPA and advisory firm with over 80 years of service. Recognized by The Wall Street Journal, Inc. Magazine, and Accounting Today, our firm combines deep technical expertise with a transparent, open-door environment that supports mid-sized privately held businesses, non-profits, and family offices.We are seeking an experienced Audit Manager to lead complex assurance engagements-including corporate, non-profit, and benefit plan audits-while mentoring rising staff and serving as a trusted advisor to client leadership.Key ResponsibilitiesEngagement Leadership: Oversee all phases of financial statement audits, reviews, compilations, and specialized engagements (ERISA/employee benefit plans, non-profits) in compliance with GAAP and AICPA standards.Proactive Client Advisory: Build strong, partner-level relationships with client stakeholders, providing actionable recommendations to optimize internal controls and financial operations.Transparent Communication: Lead client field interactions in a way that minimizes operational disruption while delivering thorough, on-time deliverables.Team Coaching & Development: Supervise, train, and mentor audit associates, fostering a collaborative environment where team members share ideas freely.Technical Quality & Compliance: Maintain strict adherence to quality standards, performing detailed reviews of workpapers and draft financial statements.QualificationsLicensure: Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license required.Experience:5+ years of progressive public accounting audit experience, including direct engagement management and team supervision.Specialized Knowledge: Strong working knowledge of GAAP and AICPA audit standards; experience with Employee Benefit Plan (EBP/ERISA) or non-profit audits is a strong plus.Education: Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; Master's in Accounting preferred.Communication & Leadership: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate technical financial insights clearly to business owners, lenders, and internal teams.Why Join Us?Unconventional, Collaborative Workplace: Enjoy an open-door, wall-free environment designed to encourage open dialogue, fast decision-making, and teamwork over rigid bureaucracy.Award-Winning Reputation: Be part of a firm recognized by top industry and national publications for client service and firm excellence.Diverse Client Portfolio: Gain exposure to dynamic, mid-market privately held companies across manufacturing, distribution, real estate, tech, and family offices.Work-Life Balance & Technology: Integrated cloud-based tech stack and structured workflows designed to prevent burnout.Comprehensive Compensation Package:Highly competitive base salary with annual bonus opportunities.Robust retirement plan options with firm matching/contributions.Comprehensive health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) package and paid firm holidays.100% firm-sponsored continuing professional education (CPE) and licensing support.