Manager, Accounting Job at Chicago Blackhawks in Chicago

Overview

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Job Title: Manager, Accounting

Department: Finance

Reports To: Manager, Accounting

Location: Chicago / United Center (In-Office)

Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm / Monday - Friday

Status: Full-time Exempt

# Direct Reports: 2

Compensation: The annual budgeted salary range for this position is $85,000 - $95,000, with the final offer commensurate with experience and qualifications

The Chicago Blackhawks is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at all levels. All individuals, regardless of personal characteristics, are encouraged to apply. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion or religious creed, color, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state, local law, ordinance, or regulation and will not be discriminated against on these bases. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Role Summary

The Manager, Accounting is a key member of the accounting and finance team responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity and timeliness of the financial reporting process for the organization. The role manages the day-to-day accounting operations, supports monthly close processes and ensures compliance with GAAP and league reporting requirements. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic fast-paced sports environment and brings both technical accounting expertise and strong operational awareness.

How You’ll Contribute

Commercial

• Think creatively to reduce expenses and manage accounting policies and procedures
• Embrace new and innovative technology opportunities to streamline processes and provide a forward-thinking approach to all areas
• Develop and strengthen relationships with department heads

Operational

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations for Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, Fifth Third Arena, Rockford IceHogs, Chicago Steel, including accounting system management, general ledger maintenance, accounts payable and accounts receivable oversight
• Lead and manage monthly close processes; prepare and review journal entries and account reconciliations
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP
• Prepare and review internal and external reporting packages, including league submissions
• Coordinate with cross-functional departments (e.g., ticketing, sponsorship, hockey operations) to ensure accurate revenue and expense recognition
• Work closely with auditors and the league office to manage audit and compliance filings
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in accounting operations
• Maintain and enhance internal control procedures and ensure compliance with organizational policies
• Utilize and optimize team’s ERP system (i.e., NetSuite) for reporting and automation
• File Sales & Use Tax and Amusement Tax with city, county, and state for all entities
• Supervise Coordinator, Accounts Payable and Staff Accountant
• Assist in special projects such as system implementations or new business initiatives

Leadership

• Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and high performance
• Drive alignment between department goals and organizational objectives, setting priorities and empowering staff to achieve results

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field required
• 5-7 years of progressive accounting experience, ideally including public accounting or sports/entertainment industry experience
• Prior experience managing or mentoring junior staff required
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, internal controls and financial statement preparation
• Advanced proficiency with Excel and strong proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite)
• CPA preferred
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines
• Detail oriented with excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Strong interpersonal and proactive communication skills
• Passion for sports and understanding of the business of professional athletics a plus
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays, as may be dictated by game and event schedule

What It’s Like Working Here

The Chicago Blackhawks experience isn’t just on the ice. Our office, located in the United Center, promotes a fun, engaging, fast-paced and collaborative atmosphere where we can celebrate both hockey and each other. Our commitment to curating an environment where all individuals feel empowered to bring their best self to work each day can be seen throughout our organization. Whether you are a job seeker looking to join the organization, a current member of our amazing team, or someone looking to help support our mission, our goal is the same – to reimagine the potential of hockey through memorable, inclusive experiences.

Perks And Benefits

Competitive total rewards package, full benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, paid life insurance), employee assistance program (EAP), comprehensive PTO package, social events, volunteer opportunities, and learning and development. Employer-paid breakfast, lunch, parking, on-site gym and training classes, employee ticket program, and more.

The Team

The Chicago Blackhawks started their journey as one of the NHL’s “Original Six” professional ice hockey teams in 1926. Members of the Central Division in the NHL’s Western Conference and six-time Stanley Cup Champions, the team calls the United Center home.

Each day the Team works to uphold our mission to reimagine the potential of hockey. At its core, the team and greater organization uphold its mission through its core values centered around integrity, curiosity, empathy, collaboration, and originality. They are fiercely dedicated to evolving and delivering new and legendary fan experiences and captivating new and diverse audiences, both on and off the ice. As part of their unwavering commitment to drive impact and purpose in the Chicago community, the organization opened the Fifth Third Arena (the team’s official practice facility and community space for youth hockey development), continues to make expansions to the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, and acquired the AHL team the Rockford IceHogs.

The Chicago Blackhawks continue to grow in its commitments to honor and celebrate Black Hawk's legacy by offering our platforms, making meaningful contributions, collaborating with Native American people, and reimagining ways to support the many Native American people and communities they live amongst and alongside. They engage in this work through their formal partnership with Black Hawk’s ancestral tribe, the Sac and Fox Nation of Oklahoma, which the tribe established with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2021.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Strategy/Planning and Information Technology

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