Director of Assurance

We are seeking an entrepreneurial and highly strategic Assurance Leader (Senior Assurance Manager or Assurance Director) to lead and expand our Manufacturing & Distribution (M&D) practice in the Chicago market. As an Assurance Leader, you will serve as the primary advisor for a diverse portfolio of middle-market and enterprise-level manufacturing and distribution clients. You will be responsible for driving growth, directing complex audit and assurance engagements, and leading a high-performing team of assurance professionals. This is a premier opportunity for a seasoned leader to leverage deep industry expertise to scale a localized practice while utilizing the resources of a national firm. Key Responsibilities Client Service & Strategic Advisory Serve as the lead assurance advisor and engagement leader for closely-held and publicly-traded M&D clients. Direct high-level audit, review, compilation, and financial reporting engagements, focusing on industry-specific technical accounting and auditing complexities (e.g., inventory valuation and accounting, revenue recognition under ASC 606, lease accounting under ASC 842, and complex supply chain accounting). Advise client executive teams and audit committees on accounting standards implementation, internal controls framework design, debt covenant compliance, and financial reporting risks during corporate restructurings, M&A due diligence, and capital raises. Navigate financial reporting considerations for clients with global supply chains, including international financial reporting standards (IFRS), consolidated reporting, and cross-border audit coordination. Business Development & Growth Drive top-line practice revenue by generating new assurance business within the greater Chicago area and the Midwest M&D corridor. Leverage existing professional networks and cultivate relationships with lenders, private equity sponsors, attorneys, and industry associations to build a robust deal pipeline. Expand services within the existing client base by identifying opportunities for risk advisory, internal audit co-sourcing, SOC reports, and ESG reporting. Represent the firm as an industry thought leader through speaking engagements, webinars, and publications on emerging GAAP/assurance trends. Leadership & Team Development Mentor, train, and develop a team of Assurance Managers, Senior Associates, and Staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence, accountability, and continuous learning. Oversee engagement economics, including budgeting, realization, billing, collections, and team utilization to ensure optimal profitability. Champion firm initiatives regarding quality control, risk management, diversity, equity, and inclusion, while driving high team retention and morale. Qualifications Experience: Minimum of 8–10+ years of progressive audit and assurance experience in public accounting, with a significant and proven focus on the Manufacturing & Distribution sector. Credentials: Active CPA license required. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance. Master’s degree in Accountancy (MAcc) or MBA preferred. Track Record: Demonstrated success in business development, audit engagement oversight, and client retention at the Senior Manager or Director level. Technical Skills: Deep expertise in US GAAP, GAAS, PCAOB standards, internal control evaluations (ICFR), and sector-specific financial accounting provisions. Leadership: Exceptional communication, executive-level presentation skills, and the ability to interact effectively with client C-suites and Boards of Directors. What We Offer Highly competitive compensation package (base salary + performance bonus). Comprehensive benefits suite including top-tier health, dental, and vision insurance. Flexible hybrid work environment. Dedicated marketing, technical accounting desk, operational, and recruiting support to help you scale your practice. Executive leadership development and clear partner track/career advancement pathways. #J-18808-Ljbffr MDS Search