Accounting Manager

OVERVIEW

Accounting Manager

Location:

Hybrid - Grand Rapids, MI

About Alera Group

Founded in 2017, Alera Group has grown to become the 14th largest broker of U.S. business. We serve clients across Employee Benefits, Property & Casualty Insurance, and Financial Services. With offices nationwide, we combine national strength with local service through a deeply collaborative approach.

The Accounting Manager is responsible for the accurate and timely execution of accounting and financial reporting activities for various offices within the Midwest Region. This is a tactical, hand-on role overseeing daily accounting operations with focus on month-end close execution, balance sheet integrity, producer-related reporting, and commission calculations.

Why Alera Group

* Make an Impact:
Your work supports businesses and individuals in protecting what matters most.

* Grow With Us:
We invest in development, mentorship, and long-term career growth.

* The Collaborative Way:
We believe in accountability, teamwork, and shared success across all offices and lines of business.

* National Strength. Local Heart:
Scale, resources, and expertise - with relationships that feel personal.

RESPONSIBILITIES

What You'll Do

Responsibilities for this role include:

* Supporting strategic finance initiatives that drive operational excellence, scalability, and organizational growth

* Partnering with cross‑functional teams, including regional and local leadership and operations, to interpret financial results and support decision‑making

* Managing month‑end close activities, including journal entries, balance sheet reconciliations, bank reconciliations, intercompany transactions, and financial statement analysis

* Supporting office‑level reporting of new business, lost business, variance analysis, and related financial inputs

* Preparing and calculating commission payables and producer book reporting

* Leading budgeting, forecasting, benchmarking, and ad hoc financial analysis

* Analyzing financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement

* Ensuring compliance with company policies, U.S. GAAP, and applicable regulatory and audit requirements

* Supporting audit and tax processes through preparation of schedules, documentation, and coordination with external auditors

* Supporting Finance transformation efforts, including accounting system migrations, AMS consolidations and process standardization initiatives

* Assisting with financial integration of newly acquired firms

* Driving process improvements, close efficiencies, and automation initiatives

* Providing oversight and development support for accounting team members as needed

* Contributing to a collaborative culture that supports colleagues across Alera Group's national network

* Supporting broader regional finance initiatives and special projects as needed

QUALIFICATIONS

What You Bring

* Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

* 5+ years of progressive accounting experience

* Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements

* Experience in a corporate accounting, public accounting, or multi‑entity environment

* Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

* Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

* Ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional stakeholders

* Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel

What Sets You Up for Success

* Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced environment

* Strong sense of accountability and ownership for accuracy, deadlines, and outcomes

* Curiosity and willingness to continuously improve accounting processes and controls

* Strategic thinking with the ability to balance detailed execution and broader business impact

* Commitment to supporting a performance‑based and client‑focused culture

* Comfort leading and developing team members while driving consistent execution

Preferred Qualifications

* Supervisory or people‑management experience

* Experience in the insurance industry

* Experience with ERP systems such as Net Suite or Workday

* Understanding of internal controls and audit support

* CPA or progress toward CPA…