Senior Accountant, Revenue and Receivables

The Role:
Morningstar is looking for a Senior Accountant to join our Americas Revenue and Receivables team and will report to the Accounting Manager- Licensed Based Revenue. In this role, you will be responsible for managing and overseeing the revenue recognition and accounts receivable processes for licensed-based revenue streams. You will work collaboratively with multiple departments to understand, assess, and improve the revenue and receivable processes. You will play an integral role with our close and financial reporting process, accounting standards compliance, and process improvements.
This role is based in Chicago or Toronto and operates in a hybrid environment, with in-office presence required three days a week
Key Responsibilities:
Revenue Recognition:

• Ensure accurate and timely revenue recognition in accordance with company policies and U.S. GAAP.
• Review and analyze contracts to determine appropriate revenue recognition treatment.
• Prepare and maintain revenue schedules and reconciliations.
• Collaborate with sales and legal teams to address revenue-related issues

Accounts Receivable Management:

• Collaborate with the America Accounts Receivable and India Shared Services team on AR processes including invoicing, collections, and reconciliations.
• Monitor aging reports and follow up on overdue accounts.
• Implement and maintain credit policies and procedures.
• Resolve customer billing inquiries and disputes.
• Ensure appropriate AR reserve balances.

Financial Reporting:

• Perform certain reconciliations to ensure completeness and accuracy of billings for each period.
• Prepare and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, financial statement schedules, and other requirements of month-end close process.
• Assist in quarterly and annual financial and regulatory reporting.

Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with internal controls and SOX requirements.
• Develop and document accounting policies and procedures.
• Conduct regular reviews to ensure adherence to compliance standards.
• Identify and implement process/control enhancements

Audit Support:

• Coordinate with internal and external auditors and assist in audit procedures.
• Prepare audit schedules and provide supporting documentation.
• Address audit findings and implement corrective actions.
• Liaise with internal and external auditors to ensure smooth audit processes.

Process Improvement:

• Identify and implement process improvements and automation initiatives.
• Evaluate current processes and recommend enhancements.
• Lead or participate in cross-functional projects to improve efficiency.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and integrate them into operations.

Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with various departments to resolve accounting issues and support business operations.
• Provide guidance and training to junior team members.
• Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to ensure alignment on financial matters.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field; CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
• Continuing education and professional development in accounting and finance.
• Minimum of 5+ years in public accounting or industry, with experience in financial statement preparation and regulatory filings.
• Experience with revenue recognition and accounts receivable processes.
• Familiarity with SEC reporting and SOX compliance.
• Prior public accounting experience preferred.
• Skills:
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
  • Familiarity with sales CRM and accounting software (e.g., Salesforce, Oracle, FCCS, Workiva, SideTrade, Blackline, Tableau).
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Morningstar's hybrid work environment gives you the opportunity to work remotely and collaborate in-person each week. We've found that we're at our best when we're purposely together on a regular basis, at least three days each week. A range of other benefits are also available to enhance flexibility as needs change. No matter where you are, you'll have tools and resources to engage meaningfully with your global colleagues.