Accounting Manager / Controller

A well-established, independent insurance brokerage is seeking an experienced Accounting Manager / Controller to oversee its accounting operations and support the continued success of the business. This is an excellent opportunity for an accounting professional with a strong background in insurance agency accounting who enjoys a hands-on role with broad responsibilities across financial operations, reporting, and process improvement. This individual will assume responsibility for the accounting function as part of a planned leadership transition and will work closely with agency leadership to ensure accurate financial reporting, efficient processes, and strong operational controls.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including payroll, operating disbursements, receipts, bank accounts, and monthly close.

• Manage insurance agency accounting functions, including carrier statement reconciliations and timely payments for agency-billed business.

• Oversee producer commission calculations, processing, and related accounting activities.

• Manage bookkeeping, account reconciliations, and general ledger accuracy.

• Oversee management reporting and support financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.

• Develop and improve procedures for collecting client receivables and maintaining accurate financial records.

• Partner with agency leadership to strengthen accounting processes, internal controls, and operational consistency.

• Identify opportunities to leverage technology and improve accounting workflows and agency operations.

• Supervise accounting tasks performed by other team members.

• Coordinate with external accounting professionals on tax and accounting matters.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with increasing levels of responsibility.

• Significant experience in insurance agency accounting is required, particularly with carrier payables, producer commissions, and bookkeeping.

• Working knowledge of insurance agency accounting processes, including agency-billed business and carrier reconciliations.

• Experience with monthly financial close, bank reconciliations, management reporting, and general ledger accounting.

• Experience supporting budgeting, financial planning, and process improvement initiatives.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a hands-on environment.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with agency leadership and external partners.

• Experience with Applied Epic is highly desirable.

• A proactive, detail-oriented approach with an interest in improving accounting processes and leveraging technology.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary of $100,000–$120,000, depending on experience, with flexibility for exceptional candidates.

• Hybrid work schedule with three days onsite in Chicago.

• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Short- and long-term disability coverage.

• 401(k) plan with employer matching.

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Job Summary

A well-established insurance agency is seeking a hands-on Controller to support financial operations and partner closely with leadership. This role is ideal for someone who is comfortable managing day-to-day accounting activities while also providing strategic financial insights, reporting, and process-improvement support.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day accounting operations, including commissions, carrier payables, collections, and account reconciliations.
• Oversee agency bill workflows and carrier remittances within a pay-when-paid structure.
• Handle complex cash flow accounts with accuracy and accountability.
• Partner with leadership on financial visibility, reporting, and operational decisions.
• Identify opportunities to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance workflows.
• Act as a liaison for agency management software, exploring system capabilities, efficiencies, and emerging tools.
• Assist in resolving discrepancies, managing collections, and maintaining strong client/account relationships.
• Stay informed on industry trends and bring relevant insights back to leadership.
• Support across functions as needed in a hands-on, team-oriented capacity.

Qualifications/Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Prior experience within the insurance industry; agency experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of insurance accounting operations.
• Hands-on, detail-oriented approach with the ability to manage both tactical and strategic responsibilities.
• Familiarity with agency management software.
• Technically capable and open to leveraging systems to improve efficiency.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage discrepancies and complex account activity.
• Comfortable working in a small, close-knit office environment.
• Collaborative, low-ego, team-first approach.
• Naturally curious and interested in improving processes and exploring new ideas.

Compensation Package

• Base salary range ($125K – $160K) plus bonus opportunity.
• Additional retirement/profit-sharing benefits may be available.
• On-site work environment.

Disclaimer: Please note that this job description may not cover all duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the role, and it is subject to modification at the employer's discretion.

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