Staff Accountant

The Big Ten Conference is seeking candidates for a Staff Accountant. This position plays a key role within the Conference's finance department. The Staff Accountant assists with day-to-day financial operations, ensuring the integrity of accounting information while providing timely financial reporting.

The ideal candidate for this position is an entry-level Certified Public Accountant (license attained or in progress) with a strong foundation in accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance with 1-3 years of tangible experience.

Candidates interested in a career in sports that lack relevant accounting or finance experience will not be considered for this role.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Manage day-to-day accounting processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)

• Assist with the preparation and review of monthly financial results with the Finance team

• Assist with the annual financial statement audit, preparing necessary schedules and collaborating with external auditors

• Assist with budget preparation and monthly departmental reporting

• Support member institutions through the Conference’s centralized distribution process, ensuring timely, compliant execution.

• Collaborate with other departments to support financial initiatives and provide financial insights

• Assist in implementing and maintaining accounting systems and processes that improve efficiency and accuracy

• Assist the treasury and tax functions, including generating periodic investment reporting, ensuring tax compliance and driving efficiencies with external partners

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, financial policies, and regulatory requirements

• Foster a culture of inclusion to support a diverse environment

This job description is not an exhaustive list of all functions that the employee may be required to perform, and the employee may be required to perform additional functions and other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field is required

• CPA license, or pathway towards attaining it, is highly preferred

• 1-3 years of professional accounting experience is required. Non-profit experience is a plus

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Demonstrated passion for intercollegiate athletics

• Ability to maintain punctual attendance and timely correspondence

• Commitment to travel, work evenings, weekends, and non-traditional hours

The Big Ten Conference is the strongest, most historic brands in all of collegiate sports. We offer a unique and dynamic workplace, a strong office culture, and a robust compensation and benefits package. This in-person position is based out of the Conference's Rosemont, IL headquarters.

The Big Ten Conference is a proud equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to equal employment opportunities regardless of age, race, ethnicity, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status or civil partnership/union status, veteran status, citizenship, pregnancy, genetic information, physical or mental disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.