Accounting Manager

This is a tactical, hand-on role overseeing daily accounting operations with focus on month-end close execution, balance sheet integrity, producer-related reporting, and commission calculations. Partnering with cross-functional teams, including regional and local leadership and operations, to interpret financial results and support decision-making.

OVERVIEW

Accounting Manager
Location: Hybrid - Grand Rapids, MI

About Alera Group

Founded in 2017, Alera Group has grown to become the 14th largest broker of U.S. business. We serve clients across Employee Benefits, Property & Casualty Insurance, and Financial Services. With offices nationwide, we combine national strength with local service through a deeply collaborative approach.



The Accounting Manager is responsible for the accurate and timely execution of accounting and financial reporting activities for various offices within the Midwest Region. This is a tactical, hand-on role overseeing daily accounting operations with focus on month-end close execution, balance sheet integrity, producer-related reporting, and commission calculations.



Why Alera Group

• Make an Impact: Your work supports businesses and individuals in protecting what matters most.

• Grow With Us: We invest in development, mentorship, and long-term career growth.

• The Collaborative Way: We believe in accountability, teamwork, and shared success across all offices and lines of business.

• National Strength. Local Heart: Scale, resources, and expertise - with relationships that feel personal.

RESPONSIBILITIES

What You'll Do
Responsibilities for this role include:

• Supporting strategic finance initiatives that drive operational excellence, scalability, and organizational growth
• Partnering with cross-functional teams, including regional and local leadership and operations, to interpret financial results and support decision-making
• Managing month-end close activities, including journal entries, balance sheet reconciliations, bank reconciliations, intercompany transactions, and financial statement analysis
• Supporting office-level reporting of new business, lost business, variance analysis, and related financial inputs
• Preparing and calculating commission payables and producer book reporting
• Leading budgeting, forecasting, benchmarking, and ad hoc financial analysis
• Analyzing financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement
• Ensuring compliance with company policies, U.S. GAAP, and applicable regulatory and audit requirements
• Supporting audit and tax processes through preparation of schedules, documentation, and coordination with external auditors
• Supporting Finance transformation efforts, including accounting system migrations, AMS consolidations and process standardization initiatives
• Assisting with financial integration of newly acquired firms
• Driving process improvements, close efficiencies, and automation initiatives
• Providing oversight and development support for accounting team members as needed
• Contributing to a collaborative culture that supports colleagues across Alera Group's national network
• Supporting broader regional finance initiatives and special projects as needed

QUALIFICATIONS

What You Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements
• Experience in a corporate accounting, public accounting, or multi-entity environment
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel

What Sets You Up for Success

• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast-paced environment
• Strong sense of accountability and ownership for accuracy, deadlines, and outcomes
• Curiosity and willingness to continuously improve accounting processes and controls
• Strategic thinking with the ability to balance detailed execution and broader business impact
• Commitment to supporting a performance-based and client-focused culture
• Comfort leading and developing team members while driving consistent execution

Preferred Qualifications

• Supervisory or people-management experience
• Experience in the insurance industry
• Experience with ERP systems such as NetSuite or Workday
• Understanding of internal controls and audit support