Assistant Controller (Azalea Wang)Location: Chicago, IL- Full-time Onsite
Position Summary:Azalea Wang is seeking a highly analytical and operationally minded Assistant Controller to support and oversee the company's accounting operations. This role will manage the day-to-day accounting functions, including AR, AP, and the monthly close process, while ensuring accurate, timely financial reporting and strong internal controls.
The ideal candidate has a minimum of 7 years of progressive accounting experience, a strong operational background, a deep understanding of inventory in wholesale and or CPG/retail environments, and demonstrated experience managing a small team. This role requires strong systems expertise and the ability to partner cross-functionally to improve processes and drive financial visibility across the organization.
Key ResponsibilitiesAccounting Operations- Responsible for Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable functions
- Manage and execute the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process
- Ensure accurate revenue recognition, inventory accounting, and expense accruals
- Maintain integrity of the general ledger and supporting workpapers
- Review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial schedules
Inventory & Retail Accounting- Ensure accurate inventory accounting across stores and eCommerce
- Oversee inventory reconciliations, reserves, and shrink analysis
- Partner with operations and merchandising on inventory controls and reporting
- Support COGS analysis and gross margin reporting
Financial Reporting & Analysis- Prepare monthly financial statements and supporting schedules
- Perform detailed variance analysis (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow)
- Identify trends, risks, and opportunities in financial performance
- Support budgeting and forecasting processes
Team Management- Review work for accuracy and completeness
Systems & Process Improvement- Lead accounting system improvements and automation initiatives
- Optimize workflows to increase efficiency and reduce errors
- Ensure strong internal controls and documentation of processes
- Partner with IT and operations on system integrations and enhancements
Cross-Functional Partnership- Collaborate with operations, merchandising, sales, and eCommerce teams
- Ensure accurate reporting of sales, inventory, and expenses
- Support leadership with ad hoc financial analysis
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA preferred but not required)
- 7+ years of accounting experience, preferably in wholesale footwear/apparel, retail or CPG
- Strong understanding of inventory accounting and cost of goods sold
- Experience managing direct reports
- Advanced Excel skills; strong ERP/system experience (NetSuite preferred)
- Proven ability to improve processes and implement controls
- Highly analytical with strong attention to detail
- Strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally
- Operational mindset with hands-on execution capability
Ideal Candidate Profile- Understands high-volume transactional environments
- Has built or improved accounting processes
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial company
- Balances strategic thinking with strong execution
Benefits & Perks:We offer competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and a generous employee discount. We're committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.
Job Type: Full-TimeWe are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.
