Assistant Controller / Accounting Manager

Bornquist, one of the premier Manufacturer’s Reps in the Chicagoland area, has built dominant brand name recognition for every product that it represents in the Commercial, Industrial, HVAC, and Plumbing markets in Northern Illinois. We offer competitive pay, benefits, and a friendly work environment for all employees. We focus on professional development by providing the necessary training for all employees to remain up-to-date on all our manufacturers and current technologies.

We believe our employees and customers will recognize us as a leader in our industry and a valuable resource!

We invite you to apply to be a part of our winning team!

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer: disability/veteran.

Benefits: Medical (HMO, HSA & PPO options), Dental, Vision, Generous Profit Sharing and 401k Program, Short Term & Long Term Disability, Employee Assistance Program, Employee Discounts through ADP LifeMart/LifeCare, Paid Time Of

Position Summary:

The Assistant Controller supports the Controller in overseeing the company's accounting operations and financial reporting functions. This role is ideal for a highly skilled accounting professional who can operate with significant autonomy, contribute to strategic financial initiatives, and partner across the organization to strengthen financial processes and controls. The Assistant Controller plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information while driving process improvements, supporting compliance, and contributing to the organization's continued growth and success.

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Leads and manages all day-to-day accounting functions including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, cash management, and banking activities.
• Drives execution of monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring deadlines are met and results are accurate.
• Prepares and consolidates financial statements and supporting schedules, including balance sheets, income statements, cash flow reports, and variance analysis.
• Reviews and ensures accuracy of account reconciliations, journal entries, and transactional outputs.
• Implements and enforces accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls established by the Controller.
• Builds and maintains budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support planning and decision-making.
• Analyzes financial results, identifies trends, and provides recommendations to the Controller and management.
• Coordinates and prepares audit schedules and supporting documentation; serves as a primary liaison during audit fieldwork.
• Supports tax compliance by preparing required documentation and ensuring accurate reporting across payroll, sales/use, and other tax areas.
• Monitors and manages receivables and payables processes to ensure effective cash flow and risk mitigation.
• Identifies and drives improvements in accounting systems, workflows, and reporting processes.
• Research accounting issues and recommends appropriate treatment for Controller review and approval.
• Acts as backup to the Controller, stepping into leadership responsibilities as needed.
• Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Supervise and oversees the daily work of Accounting Department staff, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable/Collections, and Bookkeeping functions.
• Plans, assigns, and reviews work to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and adherence to deadlines.
• Provides training, coaching, and performance feedback to team members.
• Supports hiring and onboarding of accounting personnel.
• Ensures alignment between accounting operations and cross-functional departments including Order Processing, Billing, Service, Purchasing, and Warehouse.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including full-cycle accounting and financial reporting.
• Prior experience in a senior accountant or accounting manager role strongly preferred.
• CPA certification preferred (or actively pursuing).

Computer skills required:

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, Teams).
• Experience with ERP systems; Epicor Prophet 21 experience is a plus.

Other Skills Required:

• Strong working knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Proven ability to lead the close process and produce accurate financial statements.
• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
• Ability to analyze financial data and translate it into actionable insights.
• Demonstrated ability to manage workflows and improve processes.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with all levels of management and cross-functional teams.
• High level of professionalism, attention to detail, and accountability.

Competencies:

• Diversity - Demonstrates knowledge of EEO policy; Shows respect and sensitivity for cultural differences; Educates others on the value of diversity; Promotes a harassment-free environment; Builds a diverse workforce.
• Execution & Ownership Mindset – Takes responsibility for delivering accurate and timely financial results.
• Analytical & Problem Solving – Gathers and analyzes data, identifies issues, and develops practical solutions.
• Business Acumen – Understands operational impacts on financial performance and supports informed decision-making.
• Leadership Development – Demonstrates readiness to take on increased responsibility and future ownership of the accounting function.
• Communication – Clearly communicates financial information and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Professionalism & Integrity – Maintains high ethical standards and accountability in all work.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Frequently required to stand, walk, and sit.
• Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
• Frequently required to talk or hear.
• Frequently utilize visual acuity to read technical information, and/or use a keyboard.
• Occasionally required to lift or carry items up to 25 pounds.
• Occasionally required to bend, stoop, or kneel.