Head of Accounting - Broker Dealer

Head of Accounting | Technical Accounting & Financial Reporting

Onsite - Chicago Loop

We’re partnering with a high-growth, complex financial services organization seeking a strategic and hands‑on Head of Accounting to lead technical accounting, accounting policy, and financial reporting across a dynamic global environment.

This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who thrives in fast‑paced, evolving businesses and can translate complex transactions into practical accounting guidance, scalable policies, and audit‑ready execution. The ideal candidate brings deep US GAAP expertise, strong IFRS exposure, regulatory accounting experience, and the leadership presence to influence senior stakeholders across Finance, Legal, Compliance, Risk, and Operations.

• Lead the firm’s technical accounting function across complex transactions, new products, and strategic business initiatives
• Research and interpret US GAAP and IFRS guidance, providing clear and commercially practical accounting conclusions
• Own global accounting policies, technical memos, and position papers
• Partner cross‑functionally on new business activities, legal entity structures, and intercompany arrangements
• 1 high level direct report
• Oversee high‑quality financial reporting and disclosures under US GAAP and IFRS
• Drive accounting treatment across areas, including:
  • Consolidation
  • Revenue recognition
  • Leases
  • Share‑based compensation
  • Impairment analyses
• Serve as the lead accounting contact for external auditors and technical accounting discussions

• Lead accounting support for US regulatory reporting within a regulated environment
• Ensure compliance with broker‑dealer and/or regulated entity accounting requirements
• Partner with Compliance and Legal on examinations, regulatory inquiries, and reporting obligations
• Monitor emerging accounting and regulatory developments and lead implementation efforts

• Strengthen accounting controls, governance frameworks, and review procedures
• Drive automation, process improvements, and scalable reporting infrastructure
• Build, mentor, and develop a high‑performing accounting team
• Act as a trusted advisor to executive leadership on technical accounting matters and business decisions

• 12+ years of progressive experience in technical accounting, financial reporting, controllership, or accounting advisory
• CPA required or Series 27 license strongly preferred
• Strong background within financial services, banking, broker‑dealer, fintech, asset management, or other highly regulated environments
• Deep expertise in US GAAP with strong IFRS exposure
• Experience supporting US regulatory accounting/reporting requirements
• Proven ability to lead complex accounting issues across multiple stakeholders
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to simplify complex accounting matters for senior leadership
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence across Finance, Legal, Compliance, Risk, and executive teams

• High‑impact leadership role with direct exposure to executive leadership
• Opportunity to shape accounting strategy, policy, and infrastructure in a growing organization
• Fast‑paced, intellectually challenging environment with significant visibility
• Strong mix of strategic influence and hands‑on execution