Assistant Controller

REPORTS TO: Controller, Finance 

STATUS: Full-time, Exempt 

Through artistic excellence coupled with innovative, relevant programming; initiatives to connect with and grow new audiences; engagement with communities to ignite creativity across Chicago; and a modernized Opera House that is the setting for truly great experiences, Lyric is leading the advancement of opera.  This collaborative vision will deliver ever more exciting, thought-provoking, and inclusive audience and community experiences – while increasing the gravitational pull of our art form, our company, and our city. 

The Assistant Controller is responsible for managing the accounting operations of Lyric and coordinating financial information for internal and external reporting.  This role will implement policies and procedures to ensure compliance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and maintain internal controls.  The Assistant Controller reports to the Controller and will supervise Accounts Payable, a Staff Accountant, and a Senior Accountant. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Demonstrate leadership in alignment with Lyric’s mission and vision. 
• Manage the general accounting functions for accounts payable, accounts receivable, contributions, leases, fixed assets, and concessions inventory.
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end general ledger close process.
• Ensure the integrity of the general ledger by reviewing journal entries and reconciling general ledger discrepancies.
• Be a pivotal contributor to interim and annual financial statement audits and annual informational return IRS Form 990.
• Lead the completion of tax returns and monitor changes in tax laws (IRS 990T, IRS 1099s, IRS 1042s, sales tax, restaurant tax, soda tax, MPEA tax, and amusement tax).
• Responsible for the hiring, training, and mentoring of accounting staff while promoting a collaborative, accountable, and learning-oriented culture.
• Perform periodic evaluation of internal controls and recommend improvements; investigate and implement initiatives designed to improve efficiency and quality within the department. 
• Research technical accounting issues to provide accounting guidance in adherence to US GAAP.
• Update and maintain documentation of accounting processes and procedures. 
• Responsible for staying up to date on applicable FASB, Federal, State, and other regulatory requirements for non-profit financial reporting.
• Assist the Controller in other projects as needed.
• Contribute to the overall success of Lyric by performing all other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting and 7+ years of advanced accounting experience required. 
• CPA designation required.
• Detailed knowledge of financial reporting, nonprofit accounting principles, FASB standards, and U.S. GAAP required. 
• 3+ years management experience required.
• Audit experience strongly preferred.
• Non-profit experience preferred.
• Proactive problem-solver capable of identifying issues and implementing solutions.
• Demonstrated success in financial process implementation and continuous improvement.
• Strong technological skills and ability to learn and efficiently use accounting software and other financial data systems.
• Ability to multitask and manage shifting priorities and deadlines, with attention to detail.
• Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work with a diverse group of colleagues and at all levels of the organization.
• Positive, energetic, self-motivated.

WORK CONDITIONS: 

• Ability to work some evenings or weekends during busy periods.
• Sitting for extended periods.
• Ability to perform essential functions of the job with or without accommodations. 

COMPENSATION: 

Application Deadline: August 4, 2025 (5:00pm CT)

Job Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Salary is $115,000-$125,000

Lyric Opera offers benefits including health, dental, vision 403B (no company match, 401(k) with company match, PTO (including sick, vacation, and personal days, and holidays), life/AD&D coverage, opportunities for professional development, and complimentary tickets.

Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, parental status, socio-economic status, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. We strongly encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.