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Job Summary: This role is part of the Chicago-based Accounting Team with responsibilities that include the following: leading the Lodge Accounting Team, reviewing and assisting in the preparation of the monthly, quarterly, and year-end financials, schedules and reconciliations. Provide mentorship for the Lodge Accounting Team, fostering a culture that is reflective of Great Wolf's Values. Analyzing and recording recurring, non-recurring and/or technically complex business transactions. Developing, maintaining and monitoring accounting policies and procedures. Serve as lead on various accounting operational projects in addition to daily responsibilities. This leader will report to the VP, Controller, and will be based out of Great Wolf's Corporate Headquarters based in Chicago, IL.Responsibilities:Team Leadership:Lead and mentor the Lodge Accounting Team, fostering a culture that is reflective of Great Wolf's Values. The role has two direct reports at the manager level, and 10 indirect reports at the staff and senior levels.Provide training and development opportunities to ensure staff proficiency and professional growth.Produce and analyze weekly/monthly KPIs, dashboards and analytics to measure and improve performance.Financial Management:Guide the accounting/financial operations of 21 operating properties, with 1 additional property being added by early 2025, with a growth-oriented mindset to plan and accommodate additional operating expansion in the future.Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting for each property.Analyze operating performance against budgets and forecasts.Develop and implement financial policies and procedures to ensure consistency across properties.Systems and Processes:Ensure data consistency and integration across all properties.Identify and drive process standardization, optimization, and consistent reporting and analysis of shared services activities for operating properties.Identify and implement changes to reduce cycle time and improve efficiency and accuracy.Oversee the implementation and maintenance of accounting systems and software.Stakeholder Communication:Build and maintain relationships with on-property Directors of Finance and Regional Directors of FinanceCommunicate financial results and performance metrics to senior management and stakeholders.Liaise with external partners, including auditors, banks and regulatory agencies.Plan, organize and coordinate the month-end and year-end close process, including year-end external auditCompliance and Controls:Develop, refresh and maintain accounting policies and procedures.Ensure compliance with accounting standards, regulatory requirements and company policies.Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure the integrity of financial records.Coordinate and support internal and external audits.Required Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or related field.CPA certification requiredExperience: Demonstrated experience as a people manager. Minimum of 10 years of accounting experience, with experience in a leadership role (5+ years in a leadership role strongly preferred)Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Proficiency in accounting software and financial reporting systems. Excellent communication and leadership abilities.Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of hospitality industry financial practices, GAAP, and regulatory requirements.Proficient in using accounting software and highly skilled in Microsoft Excel - macros, v-lookups, and pivot tablesHigh level of organization and ability to manage and develop a teamAbility to work from our Chicago Corporate Headquarters on a hybrid-remote work schedule (M/F optional work from home and T/W/TH in-office)Preferred Qualifications:    Experience with hotels and/or theme parks preferredExperience in a shared service environment and the ability to occasionally travel