Role Overview
Morningstar is seeking a Senior Accountant to join the Americas Revenue and Receivables team. In this role, you will manage and oversee revenue recognition and accounts receivable processes for transaction-based revenue, including DBRS, and license-based revenue streams. You will collaborate across departments to assess, improve, and strengthen revenue and receivables processes while supporting the close, financial reporting, accounting compliance, and process improvement activities.
This role is based in Chicago and operates in a hybrid environment, with in-office presence required four days per week.
*NOTE: We’re not considering candidates who require sponsorship now or in the future.
Key Responsibilities
Revenue Recognition
Ensure accurate and timely revenue recognition in accordance with company policies and U.S. GAAP.
Review and analyze contracts to determine the appropriate revenue recognition treatment.
Prepare and maintain revenue schedules and reconciliations.
Partner with FP&A, Sales, Shared Services, Internal Audit, and Legal teams to address revenue-related matters.
Accounts Receivable Management
Collaborate with the Americas Accounts Receivable and India Shared Services teams on AR processes, including invoicing, collections, and reconciliations.
Monitor aging reports and follow up on overdue accounts and unapplied cash.
Implement and maintain credit policies and procedures.
Resolve customer billing inquiries and disputes.
Process Improvement and Analytics
Develop and maintain month-end revenue reporting and analytics, providing actionable insights into revenue performance, key drivers, and variances.
Document current processes and recommend enhancements.
Identify and implement process improvements and automation initiatives.
Lead or participate in cross-functional projects that improve efficiency and scalability.
Stay current on industry best practices and integrate relevant improvements into operations.
Financial Reporting
Perform reconciliations to ensure the completeness and accuracy of billings for each reporting period.
Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, financial statement schedules, and other month-end close deliverables.
Assist with quarterly, annual, financial, and regulatory reporting requirements.
Compliance and Controls
Ensure compliance with internal controls and SOX requirements.
Develop and document accounting policies and procedures.
Conduct regular reviews to confirm adherence to compliance standards.
Identify and implement process and control enhancements.
Audit Support
Coordinate with internal and external auditors and support audit procedures.
Prepare audit schedules and provide supporting documentation.
Address audit findings and help implement corrective actions.
Support a smooth audit process through clear communication and timely follow-up.
Team Collaboration
Work closely with cross-functional teams to resolve accounting issues and support business operations.
Provide guidance and training to junior team members.
Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure alignment on financial matters.
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field; CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
Minimum of five years of experience in accounting or a related role.
Experience with revenue recognition (ASC 606) and accounts receivable accounting.
Familiarity with SEC reporting and SOX compliance.
Prior public accounting or financial services experience preferred.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Excellent communication and documentation skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Experience with Salesforce and Oracle is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits
At Morningstar we believe people are at their best when they are at their healthiest. That’s why we champion your wellness through a wide range of programs that support all stages of your personal and professional life. Here are some examples of the offerings we provide:
Financial Health
Physical Health
Comprehensive health benefits (medical/dental/vision) including potential premium discounts and company-provided HSA contributions (up to $500-$2,000 annually) for specific plans and coverages
Additional medical Wellness Incentives - up to $300-$600 annual
Company-provided long- and short-term disability insurance
Emotional Health
Trust-Based Time Off
6-week Paid Sabbatical Program
6-Week Paid Family Caregiving Leave
Competitive 8-24 Week Paid Parental Leave
Adoption Assistance
Leadership Coaching & Formal Mentorship Opportunities
Annual Flex Stipend - $1000 annually to cover personal education & well-being expenses
Tuition Reimbursement
Social Health
Charitable Matching Gifts program
Dollars for Doers volunteer program
Paid volunteering days
15+ Employee Resource & Affinity Groups
Total Cash Compensation Range
$95,275.00-139,741.66
Inclusive of annual base salary and target incentive
Morningstar's hybrid work environment gives you the opportunity to collaborate in-person each week as we've found that we're at our best when we're purposely together on a regular basis. In most of our locations, our hybrid work model is four days in-office each week. A range of other benefits are also available to enhance flexibility as needs change. No matter where you are, you'll have tools and resources to engage meaningfully with your global colleagues.
