Simplex Trading is seeking a motivated, detail-oriented Senior Accountant to join our Finance team in our Chicago, Illinois office. This is a full-time, in-office position. The Senior Accountant will play a critical role in maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the firm’s financial records, supporting regulatory compliance, and driving process improvements across our accounting function. The ideal candidate has experience in a broker-dealer or financial services environment, a strong command of GAAP, and a proactive mindset for identifying and implementing efficiencies.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

General Ledger & Month-End Close

• Own and execute the monthly and quarterly close process, including journal entries, account payable, account reconciliations, and variance analysis
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accuracy and completeness of all financial data
• Coordinate with Accountant, operations and trading teams to reconcile trade invoicing

Regulatory Reporting

• Maintain working knowledge of applicable SEC and FINRA financial responsibility rules,  including SEC Rules 15c3-1, and ensure the firm remains in compliance.  Prepare monthly and quarterly FINRA reporting in a timely and accurate manner.
• Liaise with external auditors, regulators, and compliance personnel as needed

Tax Preparation & Compliance

• Assist in the preparation of federal, state, and local tax returns and estimated tax payments
• Support the annual tax provision process and maintain tax-related workpapers and documentation
• Coordinate with external tax advisors on tax planning and compliance matters
• Monitor changes in tax legislation relevant to broker-dealers and proprietary trading operations

Financial Statements & Reporting

• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP
• Support the preparation of management reports and financial analysis for senior leadership
• Assist in the annual audit process, serving as a primary contact for external auditors and preparing audit schedules and supporting documentation
• Ensure financial reports are completed accurately and on schedule

Technology & Process Improvement

• Own the firm's credit card spend and expense reimbursement program, including policy enforcement, employee communication and monthly reporting.
• Identify opportunities to streamline and automate accounting processes
• Participate in the evaluation and implementation of accounting systems and technology 
• Document accounting policies and procedures and recommend improvements to enhance internal controls
• Collaborate cross-functionally with technology and operations teams on finance-related system initiatives

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 4-7 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within a broker-dealer, proprietary trading firm, or regulated financial services environment
• Willing to sit for FINRA licensing exams to ensure regulatory compliance with the scope of the role
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards
• CPA license (active)

Preferred

• Experience with options, derivatives, or equity securities accounting, a plus
• Exposure to process automation tools or accounting system implementations such as Claude, NetSuite or Intacct
• Public accounting experience is a plus