Accounting Manager

AKIRA Accounting Manager

In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 35+ stores across the United States, as well as a thriving eCommerce business (shopAKIRA.) AKIRA is extremely well-poised for sustained growth as we continue to build a nationally recognized brand. AKIRA's culture has one very large, distinct difference from other high fashion competitors : Other-Worldly Customer Service and Fanatical, Obsessive Attention to the consumer's needs and desires. The core principle for all employees at AKIRA is to Act and Think Like an Owner , and this belief can be reflected across all areas of the company.

The Position

Accounting Manager

Location :

Chicago, IL- Full-time Onsite

Position Summary :

The AKIRA Accounting Manager plays a key leadership role in overseeing daily accounting operations and ensuring accuracy, transparency, and compliance across all financial activities. This role will manage a growing team while developing and improving processes that align with company standards, U.S. GAAP, and regulatory requirements.

You'll be hands-on in preparing and analyzing financial reports, maintaining ledgers, managing audits, and driving continuous improvement within the accounting function - all while embodying the high-energy AKIRA spirit.

Essential Functions

Manage all accounting functions and develop, maintain, and improve accounting and financial procedures in compliance with internal policies, U.S. GAAP, and applicable regulations.

Supervise and mentor a small accounting team, fostering growth and building a high-performing department aligned with company expansion.

Ensure timely and accurate monthly and annual closing processes, including the preparation of U.S. GAAP-compliant financial statements.

Maintain the general ledger and oversee preparation and analysis of monthly financial statements.

Keep audit-ready books with consistent daily, weekly, and monthly reconciliations.

Perform monthly close activities, including journal entries, accrual analysis, and account reconciliations.

Maintain fixed asset schedules and reporting.

Manage cash flow and prepare cash forecasts.

Participate in annual budgeting and prepare periodic financial forecasts (Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow).

Analyze financial statements to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.

Prepare management presentations, financial analyses, and special projects as assigned.

Serve as an advisor to team members and other departments in developing and tracking KPIs.

Oversee compliance and reporting for local, state, and federal tax filings, including sales / use and payroll taxes across 15+ states.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting required.

Minimum 4+ years of accounting experience.

Intermediate to advanced Excel skills.

CPA designation or interest in pursuing CPA strongly preferred.

Experience with QuickBooks or similar accounting software.

Ideal Candidate

Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.

Highly organized and proactive with a strong desire to learn and grow.

Positive attitude with strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

Diversity & Inclusion :

At AKIRA we believe that treating everyone in a first-class manner is essential to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our values and our community. This is deeply rooted in our company's principles, culture, and fashion. We continuously strive to cultivate a company where employees feel a sense of belonging and contribute to a culture that values differences, ideas, and experiences. Our unique workforce is directly linked to our success and makes us stronger collectively.

Benefits and Perks :

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet, Life, LTD, FSA / HSA / Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and employee discount. We are committed to encouraging internal development and providing significant career enrichment opportunities. Most importantly, what has propelled AKIRA's growth and success over the years has been the dynamic culture within the company - if you're filled with passion, have a strong desire to get things done, and if you want to go to a place where you know your work matters and where you can implement your ideas and decisions, then AKIRA just might be the place for you.

Job Type : Full-time

At AKIRA, we are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. The starting pay for this position is $110,000 - $135,000 annually, and may be adjusted based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.