Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager

Job Description

Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager / Business Developer - Chicago, IL

Who:
We are seeking an experienced audit professional with 5-10 years of audit and assurance experience and fluent German/English communication skills.

What:
You will lead audit engagements, support business development efforts to grow the German client base, and manage teams while delivering high-quality audit services to international inbound businesses.

When:
This is a full-time position available for immediate hire, with peak workload from January through mid-April.

Where:
Based in our confidential client's Chicago, IL office with moderate domestic and international travel.

Why:
This role offers the opportunity to manage complex engagements, expand international business relationships, and contribute to the growth of a rapidly developing practice.

Office Environment:
You will work in a collaborative, international-focused setting that values leadership, professional development, cross-border communication, and teamwork.

Salary:
Compensation is competitive and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Position Overview:

The Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager / Business Developer will oversee audit engagements for US-inbound international clients while also leading initiatives to expand the firm's German-speaking client base through networking, relationship building, and market outreach.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and maintain year-round relationships with client management.
• Set expectations for value and deliverables across multiple engagements.
• Perform and review audit procedures, with emphasis on complex and specialized areas.
• Plan engagement objectives that align with professional standards and risk considerations.
• Understand client industries, identify performance indicators, and monitor emerging technical and economic developments.
• Engage in business development to expand German-speaking client relationships.
• Foster team development by coaching, delegating effectively, and providing performance feedback.
• Use technology to enhance learning, collaboration, and service delivery.
• Maintain professional education and continually strengthen technical skills.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including tax professionals.
• Identify opportunities to add value and expand service offerings for clients.
• Build long-term internal and external networks.
• Travel moderately, especially during busy season.

Qualifications:

• 5-10 years of audit and assurance experience.
• BA/BS in Accounting or Master's in Accounting/Taxation.
• Fluent German written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong English communication, writing, and research skills.
• Leadership capability and dedication to teamwork.
• Integrity and commitment to a professional environment.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
• Interest in business development, networking, and presenting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• U.S. and/or German CPA license or equivalent certification.
• Experience with manufacturing and distribution clients.
• ProSystem fx Engagement and CCH Axcess experience.

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan with 3% employer-paid contribution.
• Medical, paid dental, vision, life, disability, and AD&D insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Generous PTO: 25 days for full-time employees.
• Paid holidays plus an additional day after the 4/15 deadline.
• Flexible work arrangements.
• Paid Day of Service annually.
• Paid parking or public transportation reimbursement.
• Mobile phone reimbursement.
• Tuition reimbursement and training opportunities.
• CPA exam support including paid exam days and a monetary passing bonus.
• Visa processing and relocation expenses for qualified candidates.

If you're interested in learning more about this opportunity or would like to discuss your qualifications, please apply now.