Accounting Manager – Process Improvement & SOX

Accounting Manager – Process Improvement & SOX Chicago, IL | Hybrid

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A large, publicly traded global manufacturing organization is seeking an Accounting Manager to serve as the strategic bridge between its Corporate Accounting and SOX Compliance teams and its operational finance organization — translating corporate accounting directives into practical workflows while ensuring uncompromising US GAAP and SOX compliance across a complex, multi-site environment.
This is a unique role for a commercially-minded Big 4 CPA who thrives at the intersection of technical accounting, internal controls, and operational process improvement — with the presence and judgment to stand before senior leadership and defend operational accounting perspectives.
What You'll Do:Lead end-to-end SOX process management and coordination across operational sites — ensuring local control owners understand, execute, and document key controls effectivelyLiaise with the Internal Control team on identified control gaps — engaging appropriate operational contacts and driving timely remediationPartner with Corporate Accounting on the rollout and practical implementation of new accounting policies — translating technical requirements into actionable operational guidelinesStandardize core accounting and reporting workflows across manufacturing and distribution locations in partnership with local operational finance and plant leadershipDrive continuous improvement in balance sheet reconciliation workflows and manual journal entry processes — resolving aging bottlenecks and establishing clean documentation standardsProvide practical US GAAP guidance across revenue recognition, lease and CapEx governance, and inventory cost accounting to ensure compliant and efficient operationsTravel 10–30% for site visits to operational plants, distribution facilities, and corporate meetings
What We're Looking For:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; Active CPA required5–8+ years of progressive accounting, internal controls, and assurance experienceBig 4 or top national public accounting firm experience — auditing publicly traded manufacturing, industrial, or complex distribution clients requiredProven SOX 404 compliance experience including control deficiency remediation and operational process standardizationExpert knowledge of US GAAP standards including ASC 606, ASC 842, ASC 330, and ASC 360Strong SAP ECC/SAC experience preferred; advanced Excel and Google Sheets skills required xzbcwsv High emotional intelligence with proven ability to build consensus between conflicting corporate and operational prioritiesExecutive presence with the ability to present and defend accounting positions to CFO and Director-level leadership
Why This Role Stands Out: Unique strategic role at the intersection of Corporate Accounting, SOX, and operational finance Real influence over process standardization and compliance across a large, multi-site organization High visibility to CFO and senior leadership with meaningful technical accounting authority Publicly traded global manufacturer — complex, interesting work across multiple business lines Competitive compensation including 401(k), ESPP, medical, dental, vision, and paid parental leave Hybrid flexibility in Chicago with site visit travel component