Business Director

• Working with Office Manager, process and track client invoices, vendor payments, and waivers of lien in a timely and accurate manner.
• Reconcile accounts and maintain clean, organized AP/AR and other financial records using our project accounting software (Deltek Vantagepoint experience is a strong plus).
• Proactively manage financial databases in Vantagepoint, Excel and other platforms, identifying and resolving discrepancies as they arise.
• Analyze financial data and produce reports and projections to assist partners with strategic planning for the firm.
• Interface with WJW’s accounting firm for year-end and quarterly reports as well as provision of documents for tax filing.
• Undertake special finance projects, audits, and year-end reporting as needed.

• Coordinate the preparation of sensitive documents such as contracts.
• Research and compile information in support of strategic initiatives, business development, and special projects.
• Renew business licenses and insurance policies in coordination with partners.
• Serve as the main point of contact with corporate counsel.
• Coordinate generation of Certificates of Insurance.
• Serve as primary liaison to 3rd-party consultants including: I.T., phone, and security alarm.
• Interface with WJW’s internal Tech Committee and 3rd-party I.T. consultant to identify and help implement firm-wide hardware and software upgrades, and maintain the firm’s file server.
• Work with Office Manager to maintain oversight of physical office environment:
  • Serve as primary liaison to the office landlord.
  • Manage small-scale office space improvements
  • Ensure that the physical environment of the office is maintained in a professional manner.
  • Offsite storage management.
  • Maintain master office lists, records, and key tracking documents.

• ​​Assist partners in fostering an inclusive studio culture.
• Process payroll and employee benefits through 3rd party vendors.
• Coordinate employee expense reimbursement processing.
• Manage annual update to employee handbook.
• In coordination with the Office Manager, assist with hiring and onboarding of new employees.
• Keep abreast of Federal, State, and Chicago HR requirements and employer obligations.
• Manage annual performance review processes, in coordination with partners.
• Work with Office Manager to maintain staff accreditations:
  • Manage renewals of professional licenses.
  • Maintain records of professional continuing education requirements.

• Work with partners, Office Manager, and Marketing Assistant to provide support as needed for various marketing endeavors.
  • Help organize and maintain marketing materials, project portfolios, and digital files.
  • Oversee and maintain the company website.

• Four-year degree and minimum of 6 years of experience in bookkeeping, office administration, or a similar role, ideally in a professional services environment.
• Previous experience in project-based accounting is a strong plus, as is familiarity with Deltek Vantagepoint or similar solutions.
• CDFO certification preferred.
• Familiarity with Mac OS preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace is required.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with a professional and approachable presence.
• Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with integrity.
• Self-motivated, with a demonstrated penchant for ownership and follow-through.
• WJW works in-office on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday each week, with the option to work from home on Monday and Friday. 

• $85,000-$105,000
• Company-paid medical, dental and vision insurance; IRA; transit benefits; short and long-term disability; paid parental, family, and medical leave.

Benefits: 

Company-paid medical, dental and vision insurance; IRA; transit benefits; short and long-term disability; paid parental, family, and medical leave.

Salary:

$85,000-$105,000