The OpportunitySenior Staff Accountant | Controller Succession OpportunityWe're excited to offer you a unique opportunity to join W.F. Baird & Associates (Baird) as a
Senior Staff Accountant on our Madison, Wisconsin-based finance team. Openings like this are rare and play an important part in our long-term succession planning.
If you're an experienced accounting professional who enjoys improving processes, solving complex financial challenges, and wants to grow into a senior finance leadership role, this could be the opportunity you've been looking for.
This is a chance to create a clear, stable career trajectory within a supportive and growing organization. To be successful, you'll need to be based in the Madison, WI area and be comfortable with a hybrid schedule.
What You Will DoAs the
Senior Staff Accountant, you will play a key role in managing Baird's accounting operations while helping shape the future of our finance function. Working directly with the Controller/CFO, you'll gain exposure to every aspect of Baird's financial operations, from financial reporting and process improvements to strategic planning, budgeting, and system enhancements. This role is designed for someone who enjoys being hands-on while building the experience needed to grow into a senior finance leadership position over time.
Key Responsibilities- Process Improvement & Strategic Projects: Enhance accounting procedures, contribute to financial system implementations, and develop reporting standards.
- Reconciliations & Financial Reporting: Lead general ledger reconciliations, produce financial reports, and prepare audit-ready documentation.
- Governance & Compliance: Ensure compliance with GAAP/IFRS, tax requirements, and internal financial policies.
- General Accounting & Close: Develop and review journal entries, assist with revenue recognition, and provide financial insights.
- Payroll Administration & Processing: Manage payroll operations, ensure system accuracy, and coordinate with external providers.
- Accounts Payable & Receivable: Handle accounts payable and expense reimbursements, maintain invoices and collections, and collaborate with teams.
- Additional Duties: Lead cross-functional initiatives, provide accounting policy guidance, and offer training and technical support.
Succession Path & Development (Career Progression):You'll receive direct mentorship from our Controller/CFO while progressively taking on responsibilities such as budgeting, forecasting, strategic planning, ERP ownership, and supervising accounting staff. This role is intentionally designed to prepare you for future finance leadership opportunities within Baird.
What You Will Bring- Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration or related field
- 8+ years of progressively responsible accounting experience. Experience supporting multi-entity and/or international operations is a plus
- Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP & HRM systems for accounting and payroll
- Ability to synthesize and communicate complex financial data
- Deep understanding of GAAP and financial reporting standards
- A willingness to balance strategic initiatives with hands-on accounting responsibilities
Additional Preferred Qualifications That Make You Stand Out- Demonstrated ability to lead projects, meet deadlines, and manage competing priorities
- CPA designation (or equivalent); CMA, CGA, or CA is preferred
- Experience with ERP and HRIS platforms such as Deltek Vantagepoint, Rippling, or similar systems
- Understanding of international financial reporting and payroll compliance
