Kearney Controller presso Kearney

We are seeking an experienced Controller to lead the accounting function and ensure the accuracy, integrity, and efficiency of all financial processes. This individual will oversee end-to-end accounting operations, manage internal controls, drive process improvements, and partner with business leaders to provide financial insights. The Controller will bring a proven record of excellence, deep technical accounting expertise, and strong leadership capabilities to a dynamic environment. 

We want to hear from you if you: 

• Hold a BS/BA in Accounting or Finance; CPA required. 
• Have a minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting and controllership experience. 
• Are based in the Chicagoland area and able to work in the downtown Chicago office at least one day per week.  
• Have experience working in accounting for a professional services organization (preferred); experience in public accounting. 
• Have experience managing complex accounting environments, preferably in a cross-border, international, or multi-entity organization. 
• Have people management experience is preferred.  
• Possess strong technical accounting knowledge—US GAAP required; IFRS is a plus. 
• Are experienced with SAP or other ERP systems (strongly preferred). 
• Have experience working with shared service center operations. 
• Have excellent analytical, problem-solving and leadership skills. 
• Are an excellent communicator and a self-starter.  
• Thrive in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. 
• Have advanced proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). 

Key Responsibilities 

Financial Leadership & Oversight 

• Lead and manage all aspects of the accounting function, including balance sheet, general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets. 

• Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting in compliance with US GAAP and applicable local regulations. 

• Ensure proper revenue recognition, expense accruals, balance sheet reconciliations, and intercompany eliminations. 

• Partner with regional and global finance teams and shared service centers to ensure alignment, efficiency, and accuracy across entities. 

• Oversee accounting processes and ensure accuracy of output for US and Canada-based entities, including: 

• Review month-end P&L reports, ensuring accuracy of compensation expense, and review key entries such as leases, prepaids, depreciation and accrued expenses. 

• Support the North America unit finance team to understand their revenue and WIP balances and make adjustments as necessary. 

• Analyze results against prior months, plan/forecast, and global accounting guidance, and identify and correct discrepancies. 

• Advise on accounting-related matters. 

• Ensure accuracy of US and Canada balance sheets, and the regular performance of controls such as reconciliations to source documentation.  

Controls & Compliance 

• Establish, document, and maintain robust internal controls and accounting policies consistent with global standards and best practices. 

• Ensure full compliance with internal audit requirements, external audit standards, and corporate governance policies. 

• Lead and coordinate annual external financial audits and related statutory filings. 

• Support tax and regulatory compliance activities, including 1099 reporting and government surveys. 

Process & Systems Improvement 

• Design, implement, and continuously improve accounting processes and controls, leveraging SAP and other financial systems. 

• Collaborate with global teams to enhance automation, reporting accuracy, and data integrity. 

• Drive efficiency in offshore and shared service operations, ensuring accountability and quality of deliverables. 

 Strategic Partnership & Analysis 

• Provide financial analysis and insights to support executive decision-making. 

• Partner with FP&A, Treasury, and other business units to ensure consistent, data-driven, financial management and cash forecasting. 

• Lead and support strategic projects, including system implementations, M&A due diligence, and process reengineering initiatives. 

 What We Can Offer You 

Every day, our people work to be the difference for our clients, our communities, and our colleagues. Helping them make an impact, they are sustained by a competitive remuneration package plus comprehensive benefits and perks, including but not limited to: 

• Generous retirement/pension savings contributions 

• Comprehensive medical insurance for employees and their families 

• Structured and on-the-job learning and development opportunities 

• Personalized career journeys to pursue your personal and professional goals 

 Controller compensation range: $155K-$165K. It is important to note that at Kearney, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the top of the range for their role. Individual salaries within each range are determined through a wide variety of factors, including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, and skills. Kearney reviews compensation regularly and may adjust base salaries to reflect market competitiveness. In addition to salary, individuals may be eligible for a discretionary performance bonus. Our full suite of benefits includes paid time off, paid sick leave, 401(k) match and profit sharing, medical, dental, and vision coverage, healthcare concierge services, backup child/adult care, annual employer HSA contributions, a home office stipend, subsidized gym membership, an annual wellness program, and leaves of absence when needed to support employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.