Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager / Business Developer

Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager / Business Developer - Chicago, IL

Who: We are seeking an experienced audit professional with 5–10 years of audit and assurance experience and fluent German/English communication skills.

What: You will lead audit engagements, support business development efforts to grow the German client base, and manage teams while delivering high-quality audit services to international inbound businesses.

When: This is a full-time position available for immediate hire, with peak workload from January through mid-April.

Where: Based in our confidential client’s Chicago, IL office with moderate domestic and international travel.

Why: This role offers the opportunity to manage complex engagements, expand international business relationships, and contribute to the growth of a rapidly developing practice.

Office Environment: You will work in a collaborative, international-focused setting that values leadership, professional development, cross-border communication, and teamwork.

Salary: Compensation is competitive and includes a comprehensive benefits package.

Position Overview:
The Bilingual (German/English) Audit Manager / Business Developer will oversee audit engagements for US-inbound international clients while also leading initiatives to expand the firm’s German-speaking client base through networking, relationship building, and market outreach.

Key Responsibilities:
- Build and maintain year-round relationships with client management.
- Set expectations for value and deliverables across multiple engagements.
- Perform and review audit procedures, with emphasis on complex and specialized areas.
- Plan engagement objectives that align with professional standards and risk considerations.
- Understand client industries, identify performance indicators, and monitor emerging technical and economic developments.
- Engage in business development to expand German-speaking client relationships.
- Foster team development by coaching, delegating effectively, and providing performance feedback.
- Use technology to enhance learning, collaboration, and service delivery.
- Maintain professional education and continually strengthen technical skills.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including tax professionals.
- Identify opportunities to add value and expand service offerings for clients.
- Build long-term internal and external networks.
- Travel moderately, especially during busy season.

Qualifications:
- 5–10 years of audit and assurance experience.
- BA/BS in Accounting or Master’s in Accounting/Taxation.
- Fluent German written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong English communication, writing, and research skills.
- Leadership capability and dedication to teamwork.
- Integrity and commitment to a professional environment.
- Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.
- Interest in business development, networking, and presenting.

Preferred Qualifications:
- U.S. and/or German CPA license or equivalent certification.
- Experience with manufacturing and distribution clients.
- ProSystem fx Engagement and CCH Axcess experience.

Benefits:
- 401(k) plan with 3% employer-paid contribution.
- Medical, paid dental, vision, life, disability, and AD&D insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Generous PTO: 25 days for full-time employees.
- Paid holidays plus an additional day after the 4/15 deadline.
- Flexible work arrangements.
- Paid Day of Service annually.
- Paid parking or public transportation reimbursement.
- Mobile phone reimbursement.
- Tuition reimbursement and training opportunities.
- CPA exam support including paid exam days and a monetary passing bonus.
- Visa processing and relocation expenses for qualified candidates.

If you’re interested in learning more about this opportunity or would like to discuss your qualifications, please apply now.