Manager, Lease Accounting (Hybrid - Chicago/Nashville)

Our Customer is a leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessorize automobiles and other vehicles with operations in North America, Europe, and Taiwan. They offer their customers a broad range of replacement systems, components, equipment, and parts to repair and accessorize automobiles, trucks, and recreational and performance vehicles.

We are seeking a Lease Accounting Manager to manage the global lease process, including timely and accurate reporting, and ensuring adequate and proper financial reporting, adhering to US GAAP and internal controls.

Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for the global lease accounting function, ensuring consistent application of ASC 842 and other relevant standards.
• Own and maintain global lease accounting policies, procedures, and controls for accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
• Review and interpret complex lease arrangements, providing technical guidance on classification, measurement, and disclosure.
• Direct monthly, quarterly, and annual close activities, including review and approval of journal entries, reconciliations, and internal reporting.
• Oversee global lease schedules and ensure data integrity within the Lease Accounting Application.
• Partner with Real Estate, Legal, FP&A, Fleet and Logistics, and IT to ensure accurate lease data capture and compliance.
• Lead preparation and review of lease-related financial disclosures and audit deliverables.
• Manage and develop a global team of lease accountants, providing coaching, feedback, and career growth opportunities.
• Drive process standardization, automation, and system enhancements for global lease accounting operations.
• Monitor emerging accounting guidance and implement updates to global policies and processes.
• Act as the primary point of contact for senior finance leadership, external auditors, and internal control functions on lease accounting matters.
• Support enterprise-level initiatives, including M&A and divestitures, ensuring lease considerations are addressed.
• Champion a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous learning within the team.
• Manage and oversee staff workload, planning, scheduling, and reviewing work to meet quality standards.
• Responsible for hiring, training, performance reviews, corrective action, and team development.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
• 5+ years of related experience in accounting or lease accounting.
• CPA certification required.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and FASB regulations related to accounting.
• Ability to develop policies, document processes, and implement best practices.
• Advanced Excel and Microsoft Office skills (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, databases).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills for complex accounting matters.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to present, persuade, and resolve issues across departments.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with moderate to high complexity.
• Demonstrated leadership, motivational, and team-building skills.

Preferred:

• 3+ years of supervisory experience.
• Experience with FinQuery Lease software.
• Experience in a corporate accounting environment.

Physical Demands/Work Environment:

• Work is primarily sedentary; must be able to sit for extended periods and use a computer, keyboard, and mouse.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Periodic travel, including overnight stays, may be required.

Hours and Location:

• M-F 40 hours/week
• Hybrid in Chicago, IL, or Nashville, TN. Periodic travel required, including overnight stays as needed

Benefits:

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Paid Time Off
• 401 (k) with Generous Company Match
• Company Paid Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability
• Short-Term Disability
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Discounts