Accounting Manager

Client Challenge

Grand Rapids, Michigan

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Accounting, Accounting Close, Accounting Policies, Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Automation, Billing, Business Growth, Business Support, Cash Applications, Coaching, Communication Skills, Continuous Improvement, Credit Analysis, Credit Risk, Dental Insurance, Detail Oriented, Distribution Services, Documentation, ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), Employee Assistance Plan, Establish Priorities, Finance, Financial Management, Financial Operations, Financial Reporting, Financial Risk, Financial Transactions, General Ledger Accounting, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Insurance Documentation, Journal Entries, Leadership, Logistics, Mentoring, Microsoft Excel, Onboarding, Operational Improvement, Operational Support, Operations, Organizational Skills, Partner Sales, People Management, Performance Analysis, Performance Metrics, Philosophy, Problem Solving Skills, Process Improvement, Process Management, Reconciliation, Risk Management, Sales Operations, Servant leadership, Supply Chain, Team Player, Third-Party Logistics (3PL), Time Management, Vision Plan, Warehousing
LOCATION
Grand Rapids, Michigan
POSTED
2 days ago
The Accounting Manager is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of the accounting department while developing a high-performing team that delivers accurate, timely, and reliable financial information. This role oversees the core accounting functions, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Billing, Customer Credit, and Month-End Close, while driving continuous process improvement and maintaining strong internal controls.
 
As a leader at ALS, you'll build and develop your team through our Lead, Manage, Hold Accountable (LMA) philosophy, ensuring employees have the tools, direction, and support to succeed. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you'll help strengthen financial operations that support the continued growth of our family-owned, industry-leading logistics company.
 
Top Responsibilities:
  • Lead, Manage, Hold Accountable (LMA) – Develop, coach, and hold the accounting team accountable while fostering employee growth and engagement.
  • Manage Finance Core Processes – Own and improve accounting processes by monitoring KPIs, identifying opportunities, and driving continuous improvement.
  • Oversee Daily Accounting Operations – Ensure accurate and timely processing of Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Billing, Cash Applications, and other daily financial transactions.
  • Manage Customer Credit & Onboarding – Lead customer credit reviews, onboarding documentation, AR insurance coordination, and credit risk management while partnering with Sales and Operations.
  • Support the Month-End Close – Coordinate assigned portions of the month-end and year-end close process, review journal entries and reconciliations, and ensure deadlines are consistently met.
What You'll Do:
  • Lead, mentor, and develop members of the accounting team.
  • Conduct regular one-on-one meetings, performance discussions, and annual development planning.
  • Establish clear performance expectations and monitor departmental KPIs.
  • Oversee Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Billing, Cash Applications, and General Ledger activities.
  • Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reporting schedules.
  • Support month-end and year-end close activities while ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
  • Maintain strong internal controls and compliance with accounting policies.
  • Manage customer credit approvals, onboarding documentation, and AR insurance requirements.
  • Partner with Sales, Operations, and Leadership to support business growth while minimizing financial risk.
  • Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through automation, standardization, and process improvements.
  • Assist with audit preparation and provide requested financial documentation.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of progressive accounting experience.
  • 3+ years of supervisory or management experience.
  • Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), financial reporting, and internal controls.
  • Experience leading Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Billing, and Month-End Close activities.
  • Experience working with ERP systems.
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Preferred:
  • Experience within logistics, transportation, distribution, manufacturing, or another high-volume transactional environment.
  • Experience leading process improvement initiatives and implementing KPIs.
What Makes You Successful:
  • You thrive in this role if you are:
  • A servant leader who enjoys coaching and developing others.
  • Highly organized and able to prioritize multiple deadlines.
  • Detail-oriented while maintaining a big-picture mindset.
  • Comfortable making decisions using financial data and business insight.
  • Passionate about continuous improvement and operational excellence.
  • Collaborative and able to build strong relationships across departments.
  • Accountable, dependable, and driven to improve both people and processes.
Why ALS?
 
Automated Logistics Systems (ALS) is a family-owned, Top 100 third-party logistics provider that has been delivering innovative transportation, warehousing, and supply chain solutions since 1927. Our people-first culture is built on teamwork, accountability, continuous improvement, and developing employees for long-term success.
When you join ALS, you're joining a company that values your ideas, invests in your growth, and provides opportunities to make a meaningful impact on both our customers and our team.
 
Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Quarterly bonus opportunity
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) with Company Safe Harbor Contribution
  • Paid Time Off
  • Nine Paid Holidays
  • Life & Disability Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Family-oriented culture with opportunities for career growth

About the Company

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Client Challenge