Accounting Project Lead

Zurich North America is currently looking for an Accounting Project Lead based out of our North American Headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois. In this highly visible role, you will be collaborating with various leaders / process owners / suppliers across the Finance organization to understand accounting and financial reporting challenges and requirements while assisting in the delivery of general accounting daily processing and month-end closing activities to ensure they are completed in line with business objectives.
As the Accounting Project Lead, you will also be responsible for the following:
Translating information into proposed solutions and requirements involving process optimization, automation, and is actively involved in the governance of offshoring/outsourcing operations to ensure maximum efficiency
Leading the implementation of small to medium projects and supporting the Accounting operation on larger initiatives
Documenting and updating process changes to reflect current processes and contributing to continuous improvement
Performing in a governance role for outsourced / offshore general accounting operations by:
Developing and maintaining relationships with suppliers
Maintaining and improving operations
Monitoring financial reporting and performance
Ensuring processes are compliant with contractual obligations and business objectives
Participating in the development of transition plans
Implementing and training activities for offshore and outsourced teams
Acting as the subject matter expert in general accounting principles by conducting account reconciliation reviews and initiating changes to ensure the quality of the balance and financial records
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's Degree and 6 or more years of experience in the Accounting or Finance area
OR
High School Diploma or Equivalent and 8 or more years of experience in the Accounting or Finance areas
AND
Experience using accounting and treasury principles
Preferred Qualifications:
Degree in Accounting strongly preferred
Knowledge and experience with Business Process Offshoring / Outsourcing
Advanced knowledge and understanding of accounting principles
Ability to quickly assess and solve problems
Experience building cross-functional partnerships and assembling and leading project teams globally
Insurance industry experience
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Effective negotiation and influencing skills
Experience with core process redesign and continuous improvement methodologies
Experience leading workstreams/projects
Experience with change management tools/methodologies
Excellent Microsoft Office skills
As a condition of employment at Zurich, employees must adhere to any COVID-related health and safety protocols in place at that time (https://www.zurichna.com/careers/faq).
A future with Zurich. What can go right when you apply at Zurich?
Now is the time to move forward and make a difference. At Zurich, we want you to share your unique perspectives, experiences and ideas so we can grow and drive sustainable change together. As part of a leading global organization, Zurich North America has over 150 years of experience managing risk and supporting resilience. Today, Zurich North America is a leading provider of commercial property-casualty insurance solutions and a wide range of risk management products and services for businesses and individuals. We serve more than 25 industries, from agriculture to technology, and we insure 90% of the Fortune 500®. Our growth strategy is not limited to our business. As an employer, we strive to provide ongoing career development opportunities, and we foster an environment where voices are diverse, behaviors are inclusive, actions drive equity, and our people feel a sense of belonging. Be a part of the next evolution of the insurance industry. Join us in building a brighter future for our colleagues, our customers and the communities we serve. Zurich maintains a comprehensive employee benefits package for employees as well as eligible dependents and competitive compensation. Please click here to learn more.
As a global company, Zurich recognizes the diversity of our workforce as an asset. We recruit talented people from a variety of backgrounds with unique perspectives that are truly welcome here. Taken together, diversity and inclusion bring us closer to our common goal: exceeding our customers' expectations. Zurich does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other legally protected status. EOE disability/vet
Zurich does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or employment agencies. Any unsolicited resume will become the property of Zurich American Insurance. If you are a preferred vendor, please use our Recruiting Agency Portal for resume submission.
Location(s): AM - Schaumburg
Remote Working: Hybrid
Schedule: Full Time
Employment Sponsorship Offered: No
Linkedin Recruiter Tag: #LI-MF1 #LI-ASSOCIATE #LI-HYBRID