Accounting Manager

Position Overview

AKIRA opened its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago in 2002 and now operates 40+ stores across the United States and a thriving eCommerce business at  The company is poised for sustained growth and is known for its other‑worldly customer service and obsessive attention to consumer needs. The core principle for all employees is to act and think like an owner.

Accounting Manager

Chicago, IL – Full‑time on site

The AKIRA Accounting Manager leads daily accounting operations, ensuring accuracy, transparency and compliance across all financial activities. The role manages a growing team, develops and improves processes aligned with company standards, U.S. GAAP, and regulatory requirements. The manager prepares and analyzes financial reports, maintains ledgers, manages audits, and drives continuous improvement while embodying the high‑energy AKIRA spirit.

• Manage all accounting functions and maintain, develop and improve accounting and financial procedures in compliance with internal policies, U.S. GAAP and applicable regulations.
• Supervise and mentor a small accounting team, fostering growth and building a high‑performing department aligned with company expansion.
• Ensure timely and accurate monthly and annual closing processes, including the preparation of U.S. GAAP‑compliant financial statements.
• Maintain the general ledger and oversee the preparation and analysis of monthly financial statements.
• Keep audit‑ready books with consistent daily, weekly and monthly reconciliations.
• Perform monthly close activities, including journal entries, accrual analysis and account reconciliations.
• Maintain fixed asset schedules and reporting.
• Manage cash flow, prepare cash forecasts, participate in annual budgeting and prepare periodic financial forecasts (Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Cash Flow).
• Analyze financial statements to identify trends, variances and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare management presentations, financial analyses and special projects as assigned.
• Serve as an advisor to team members and other departments in developing and tracking KPIs.
• Oversee compliance and reporting for local, state and federal tax filings, including sales/use and payroll taxes across 15+ states.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting required.
• Minimum 4+ years of accounting experience, preferably 2+ years in a managerial role.
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills.
• Mid‑size company experience preferred.
• CPA designation or strong interest in pursuing CPA strongly preferred.
• Experience with Net Suite or similar accounting software.

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Highly organized and proactive with a strong desire to learn and grow.
• Positive attitude with strong interpersonal and relationship‑building skills.
• Strong and proven leadership skills to develop a team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full‑time employees, including medical, dental, vision, pet insurance, life, LTD, FSA/HSA, dependent care FSA, flex transit (CTA), 401(k) and a generous employee discount. The company is committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.

At AKIRA, we are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications and other job‑related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.

Full‑time