Audit Manager

The Bryar Group • North Suburbs, Illinois • Full Time

Posted on Sat, May 2, 2026

Job Description

Audit Manager – Private Equity Operating Company Vertical
Compensation: ~$130K base + performance bonus
Work Arrangement: Hybrid preferred (3+ days in-office); open to remote for the right candidate
Why Now: Immediate hiring need to support rapid growth and expansion of a dedicated Private Equity vertical
Start Date: ASAP

About the Opportunity

A growing middle-market accounting platform is building a specialized Private Equity operating company vertical and is seeking an Audit Manager to play a key role in its expansion. This is an opportunity to work closely with leadership while gaining deep exposure to private equity-backed portfolio companies in high-growth industries.

The role blends technical audit execution with advisory-style client interaction, particularly with businesses that may lack mature audit processes. You’ll be part of a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where adaptability and hands-on problem-solving are essential.

What You’ll Do

• Manage and execute 10–12+ audit engagements annually for PE-backed operating companies
• Oversee audits across industries including software/SaaS, services, and healthcare/dental
• Handle multiple concurrent engagements with shifting timelines and deadlines
• Act as a hands-on advisor to clients with limited GAAP knowledge or audit readiness
• Navigate incomplete or evolving client data and maintain audit quality under pressure
• Collaborate with leadership on developing and scaling the Private Equity vertical
• Support business development initiatives tied to private equity relationships
• Mentor and develop junior staff while contributing to team structure and processes

What Makes This Role Exciting

• Opportunity to help build and shape a high-growth Private Equity vertical
• Direct exposure to PE-backed portfolio companies in dynamic, scaling industries
• High visibility with firm leadership and opportunity to influence direction
• Mix of audit leadership and advisory-style client engagement
• Fast-paced, high-impact environment with strong internal support
• Opportunity to develop niche expertise in a growing segment of the market
• Potential to grow alongside the vertical as the team expands

About You

• 6–10+ years of public accounting audit experience (Manager level preferred)
• Strong technical expertise in GAAP and audit procedures
• Experience managing multiple engagements with competing deadlines
• Ability to work effectively with less structured or evolving client environments
• Strong project management and client communication skills
• Hands-on, adaptable, and solutions-oriented mindset
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; CPA preferred or required

Additional Advantages

• Experience auditing private equity-backed operating companies
• Background in software, SaaS, healthcare services, or recurring revenue models
• Experience at middle-market accounting firms 
• Exposure to acquisition or roll-up environments
• Experience contributing to or building a niche/vertical practice

Why Join Us

• Be part of a strategic, high-priority growth initiative within the firm
• Work closely with leadership and gain meaningful visibility
• Engage with high-growth companies in a dynamic private equity ecosystem
• Join a collaborative, entrepreneurial culture with strong support
• Access clear opportunities for advancement as the vertical scales

This is a strong opportunity for an Audit Manager looking to move beyond traditional engagement execution and step into a role with broader impact. You’ll gain exposure to private equity-backed businesses, develop niche expertise, and help build a practice that is positioned for significant growth.

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