MD Chief Accounting Officer

CME Group • Chicago, IL

1d

About The Position

Chief Accounting Officer (CAO): We are seeking a highly experienced and hands-on Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) to lead our global accounting function. This is a critical leadership role responsible for the integrity of our financial reporting, internal controls, and overall accounting strategy. This role requires an individual who can operate with precision, ensure regulatory and reporting accuracy, and work collaboratively with colleagues to deliver on both routine and ad-hoc priorities. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in a large, complex, and regulated financial services environment, with a proven track record of managing a global team and navigating the intricacies of a publicly listed company as well as the ability to balance leadership oversight with practical, day-to-day execution. Role Summary: The CAO maintains overall responsibility for financial integrity and financial controls of the organization. The incumbent is responsible for maintenance of the books and records of CME Group and its global subsidiaries. The CAO is responsible for all external financial filings including SEC filings, statutory and regulatory financial filings. The CAO oversees the Sarbanes-Oxley control documentation and testing team which supports the CEO/CFO quarterly SEC certifications. The CAO also manages organizational transaction processing for billing, collection, cash application, payroll, accounts payable, travel & entertainment and procurement. The role is also responsible for assessment and review of actual and potential accounting implications of complex transactions and new accounting standards.

Requirements

• A minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in accounting , with a preference for candidates who have served as a in a senior leadership role such as Corporate Controller, Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) or VP of Finance for at least 5 years
• Experience in the above roles in a large, global, publicly listed financial services institution is required
• A Bachelor's degree in Accountancy, Finance or a related field is required
• Active CPA (Certified Public Accountant) designation is mandatory
• Deep knowledge of Accounting, Auditing, and SEC filings
• Strong understanding of Corporate Budgeting and Forecasting, and internal control frameworks
• Deep knowledge of GAAP, IFRS, and SEC reporting requirements
• Strong understanding of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance and internal control frameworks
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to manage a diverse, international team
• Technically strong in all aspects of accounting and financial reporting, have excellent written and verbal communication skills, and be equally comfortable dealing with members of the Board of Directors and staff.
• Strategic and analytical thinker with meticulous attention to detail. A proactive and results-oriented leader who can thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

Nice To Haves

• An MBA or advanced degree is preferred

Responsibilities

• Financial Reporting and Disclosure: Oversee the preparation and filing of all financial statements, including SEC filings. Ensure compliance with GAAP, IFRS, and other regulatory reporting requirements including preparation of the annual report, local statutory reports, financial regulatory filings, financial information in proxy, debt compliance reporting and other government filings.
• Financial Statements and Analysis: Maintains books and records of CME Group and subsidiaries, consisting of over 50 U.S., UK and other international subsidiaries of CME Group. This includes monthly, quarterly and annual financial statements. This also includes reviewing financial information on a regular basis and analyzing financial trends and relationships. Also presents financial information to the Board of Directors, Audit Committee and Senior Management.
• Accounting Operations: Lead and manage all aspects of the accounting function, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll. Optimize and enhance accounting processes, vendors and systems to improve efficiency and accuracy. Ensuring that day-to-day accounting functions are performed in a timely and accurate manner.
• Oversee Accounting Policy: Closing/Consolidation, and Valuations. Formulating, recommending, and auditing processes to ensure adequate financial control and that financial accounting and administrative practices are sound and conforming to company policies.
• Internal Controls and Compliance: Design, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls over financial reporting (SOX compliance). Ensure strict adherence to all regulatory and legal requirements, including those from the SEC, FASB, and other relevant bodies while supporting the CEO/CFO SEC certifications.
• Strategic Leadership: Serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, providing strategic guidance on accounting matters, mergers and acquisitions, and business initiatives. Partner with finance, legal, and operational teams to drive business objectives. Responsible for assistance on inorganic growth opportunities including due diligence, closing and financial integration.
• Team Leadership and Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global accounting team. Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Auditor and Regulator Relationship Management: Act as the primary liaison for external auditors, managing the annual audit process. Interact regularly with regulators to ensure compliance and maintain strong relationships.
• Committee Representative: Acts as a representative in various capacities, including Retirement Committee, Risk Management Team and Disclosure Team.

Benefits

• CME Group is committed to offering a competitive total rewards package for our employees that recognizes their contributions to the business and reflects our long-term investment in their future.
• Our compensation program also includes an annual target bonus opportunity for all employees, as well as the opportunity to become an owner in the company through our broad-based equity program.
• Through our benefits program, we strive to offer flexibility, value and choice. From comprehensive health coverage, to a retirement package that includes both a 401(k) and an active pension plan, to highly competitive education reimbursement provisions, paid time off and a mental health benefit, CME Group offers a holistic benefits package for our team and their dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Executive