Accounting Manager

company information

fairlife, LLC is a Chicago-based dairy company that creates great-tasting, nutrition-rich and value-added products to nourish consumers.

With more than $1B in annual retail sales, fairlife’s growing portfolio of delicious, lactose-free, real dairy products includes: fairlife® ultra-filtered milk; Core Power® High Protein Shakes, a sports nutrition drink to support post-workout recovery; fairlife® nutrition plan™, a nutrition shake to support the journey to better health; and fairlife® Light Ice Cream.

A wholly owned subsidiary of The Coca-Cola company, fairlife, LLC has been recognized by both Fast Company and Nielsen for its industry leading innovation.

The company is driven by its values of caring for the people, animals, and planet it touches across its business. By providing nourishing products, implementing stringent care standards for animals, and stewarding efficient operations and responsible packaging, fairlife, LLC puts a focus each day on making a positive impact for all. 

To learn more about fairlife and its complete line of products, please visit fairlife.com.

job purpose:

The Accounting Manager is responsible for leading the monthly close process and ensuring financial statements are prepared in accordance with GAAP.  This position also has an important role in efficient master data maintenance, ensuring critical controls are in place.  Other key responsibilities include providing analytical input, recommending process improvements, and assisting with systems project activity as planned for a rapidly growing company. 

Accounting/Financial

• Own the monthly financial close process, across four plants, corporate departments, and two accounting systems (NetSuite and D365)
• Prepare, review, post journal entries and accruals
• Prepare the financial statement reviews, including trend analysis and commentary with high level drivers
• Comply with financial consolidation efforts with Coca-Cola North America (CCNA) and supporting documentation requirements
• Prepare and review monthly account reconciliations and weekly bank reconciliation
• Direct responsibility for the accounting, revised estimates, and annual budgeting for two non-bottling plants (Dexter and Indiana)
• Continue to develop Standard Operating Procedures to contribute to an effective and efficient system of internal controls
• Prepare quarterly and year-end schedules
• Assist with audits, as needed

Leadership

• Guide, coach, and develop two Staff Accountants
  • Staff Accountants responsibilities include journal entries, asset capitalizations, depreciation cycles, account and bank reconciliations, P&L trend analysis/commentary, reports for CCNA consolidation, regulatory reporting, permits/license renewals, and Indiana plant BOMs, inventory production and consumption reporting, and invoicing for select customers

Master Data

• Own master data processes and maintenance across two systems (NetSuite and D365)
  • Master data ownership includes general ledger accounts, vendors, items, spare parts, purchase prices, customers, pricing, and standard costs
• Trouble-shooting end user errors for potential master data issues; partner with IT resources as needed
• Ensure consistent data governance standards in place
• Continue to build efficient processes, including system uploads 

Other

• Recommend enhancements to current D365 implementation and assist in second phase of implementation
• Recommend process improvement and action plans
• Perform ad hoc financial analysis as required
• Perform other duties and participate in special projects as assigned

Experience/Education:

• B.S. in Accounting or Finance.  CPA and/or MBA a plus
• 7-10 years of financial experience; experience managing a staff
• CPG and/or experience in manufacturing environment required
• Strong analytical, systems, and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced entrepreneurial environment
• Ability to develop high levels of credibility and forge solid and positive professional relationships with subordinates, peers, and upper management
• Proficient in Microsoft products, database software and other applicable accounting and financial software and systems.  D365 experience preferred.
• Dairy experience a plus, not required

position location: Chicago, IL

reports to: Corporate Controller

travel requirements: < 10%

fairlife, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, veteran status, or any other category protected by law. All qualified applicants and employees will be given equal opportunity. Selection decisions are based on job-related factors.

In addition to its nondiscrimination commitment, the Company will also provide reasonable accommodation of qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on the Company. If you have a disability and would like to request accommodation in order to apply for a position with us, please email [email protected].