Chief Accounting Officer

Vaco is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) for one of our clients in Milwaukee, WI. The CAO will play a critical role in shaping the company's financial strategy, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and managing accounting functions across multiple entities.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Accounting Oversight & Leadership:
   • Lead and manage the accounting department (3-5) and 3rd party vendors.
   • Develop, implement, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
   • Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
2. Financial Reporting & Analysis:
   • Provide accurate and comprehensive financial reports to senior management, investors, and regulators as required.
   • Drive monthly and quarterly financial reporting processes, ensuring the timely delivery of accurate data to facilitate decision-making.
3. Collaboration & Stakeholder Management:
   • Work closely with the CFO, investment teams, and other senior executives to provide strategic financial insights and support investment decision-making processes.
   • Provide support and guidance to business units regarding accounting matters, including valuations, performance metrics, and regulatory issues.

Qualifications:

1. Education & Experience:
   • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (MBA, CPA, or equivalent advanced certification required).
   • Minimum of 10-15 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or executive role.
   • Extensive experience within an investment company, private equity, hedge fund, asset management, or related financial services industry.
   • Strong understanding of investment structures, financial markets, and accounting for complex transactions.
2. Technical Skills:
   • Deep knowledge of US GAAP and other regulatory frameworks relevant to the investment industry.
   • Proficiency in accounting software and financial systems (e.g., NetSuite, Sage).
   • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, with the ability to manipulate large data sets and perform in-depth financial analysis.
3. Leadership & Communication:
   • Proven ability to lead and develop high-performing teams, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
   • Strong organizational and problem-solving skills, with a strategic mindset and attention to detail.
   • Ability to communicate complex accounting and financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.

Vaco values a diverse workplace and strongly encourages women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply.