Accounting Manager | Village of Willowbrook

The Village of Willowbrook is seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to serve as the Accounting Manager. The Accounting Manager is a professional-level position within the Finance Department of the Village of Willowbrook, Illinois.

This position is responsible for managing the day-to-day accounting operations of the Village, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all financial records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards (GASB). The Accounting Manager works closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to support the Village’s financial management, reporting, internal controls, compliance, and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

The following duties are illustrative and not exhaustive. Other duties may be assigned as required.

• General Ledger & Financial Reporting: Maintain and oversee the Village’s General Ledger, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with applicable accounting standards. Prepare, review, and post journal entries for all funds, including the General Fund, Water Fund, Motor Fuel Tax Fund, Capital Projects Fund, TIF Redevelopment Corridor Fund, and others. Review and reconcile all balance sheet accounts on a monthly basis. Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for review by the CFO and presentation to the Village Board. Support preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and related financial statements.

• Audit Preparation & Compliance: Serve as the primary point of contact for the Village’s external auditors; coordinate and manage all audit preparation activities. Compile audit schedules, supporting documentation, and work papers in advance of annual financial and compliance audits. Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations, including Illinois Municipal Auditing Law (65 ILCS 5/8-8), Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200), and GATA requirements. Monitor and respond to audit findings and implement corrective action plans as directed by the CFO.

• Accounts Payable, Payroll & Cash Receipts: Oversee and review the processing of accounts payable, ensuring accuracy, proper authorization, and timely payment and adherence in accordance with Village policies. Review payroll processing for accuracy and compliance with applicable federal and state tax requirements; serve as backup payroll processor as needed. File quarterly/annual tax reports for payroll and accounts payable. Oversee cash receipts functions, ensuring proper recording, classification, and timely deposit of all funds received. Review reconciliations of payroll liability accounts, vendor accounts, and bank accounts.

• Supervision & Staff Development o Directly supervise the Accounting Analyst (i.e. Accounts Payable, Cash Receipt, Payroll functions; provide day-to-day guidance, training, and performance oversight.  Review work products prepared by the Accounting Analyst for accuracy and completeness prior to submission or posting.  Foster a collaborative, professional, and high-performing work environment within and outside of the Finance Department.  Assist with the onboarding and training of new Village staff related to finance.

• Internal Controls & Financial Integrity  Conduct periodic reviews of internal controls across all financial processes; identify deficiencies and recommend improvements to the CFO. Ensure segregation of duties is maintained and documented throughout the general ledger, especially appropriate backup is attached to the Accounting Software and maintained for records purposes. Review and approve financial documents, purchase orders, and payment vouchers to ensure policy compliance prior to CFO authorization. Maintain and update written accounting policies and procedures as directed.

• Budget & Financial Analysis: Assist the CFO in the preparation and administration of the Village’s annual budget across all funds. Monitor budget-to-actual performance; prepare variance analyses and provide explanatory narratives for significant deviations, as requested. Prepare ad hoc financial analyses, projections, and reports as requested by the CFO or Village Administrator.

• Cash Flow & Investment Management: Monitor daily cash positions and prepare cash flow projections to support operational and investment decision-making. Assist the CFO with cash management strategies, including the coordination of fund transfers and investment activities in compliance with Village policy and state statute. Maintain accurate records of all investment transactions and reconcile investment balances monthly.

• Debt Management: Assist with the administration of Village debt obligations, including tracking principal and interest schedules, ensuring timely debt service payments, and maintaining debt records. Support the CFO in the issuance of new debt instruments, including preparation of financial data, coordination with bond counsel, and compliance with disclosure requirements. Maintain the Village’s debt compliance calendar and assist with required continuing disclosure filings.

• Other Responsibilities: Respond to financial inquiries from Village departments, elected officials, and external parties in a timely and professional manner. Attend Village Board meetings and Finance Committee meetings as required by the CFO (occasional). Assist with special projects, grant administration, pension reporting, and other duties as assigned. Qualifications & Ideal Candidate

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field is required. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) candidacy is strongly preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible accounting or financial management experience is required. Experience in governmental or public sector accounting, preferably with an Illinois municipality, is highly preferred. Prior supervisory or team leadership experience is preferred.

• Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Thorough knowledge of GAAP, GASB standards, and governmental fund accounting principles. Working knowledge and willingness to learn Illinois municipal finance law. Strong proficiency with financial management software and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. Demonstrated ability to prepare accurate financial reports, reconciliations, and audit work papers. Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail. Effective written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial audiences. High degree of integrity, professional ethics, and commitment to public service. Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work both independently and collaboratively. Desire to work in a team environment, which supports one another and helps each other grow.

• Salary & Benefits The salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $75,000 to $95,000, depending on qualifications. The Village offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:  Medical, dental, and life insurance; Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension; Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; Professional development opportunities. Employment is contingent upon successfully passing an employee reference check, criminal background check, and drug screening.