Controller/CFO
Position Overview
A growing and highly respected law firm is seeking a Controller to lead all accounting, finance, and operational finance functions. This individual will serve as the senior financial leader of the organization while remaining heavily involved in the day-to-day accounting operations and financial management of the firm.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on accounting and finance professional who thrives in a lean environment, can effectively manage both strategic and operational responsibilities, and has experience supporting a professional services or legal organization.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all accounting and finance functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, billing, collections, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
- Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
- Prepare and present financial statements, cash flow reports, budgets, forecasts, and management reporting packages
- Monitor firm profitability, utilization, realization, and overall financial performance
- Manage banking relationships, treasury activities, and cash management
- Oversee attorney trust accounts and maintain compliance with IOLTA requirements
- Develop and maintain accounting policies, internal controls, and financial procedures
- Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and external service providers
- Partner with firm leadership on financial planning, operational initiatives, and business growth strategies
- Evaluate and improve accounting systems, reporting capabilities, and financial processes
- Supervise accounting and administrative personnel
- Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and legal industry best practices
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- CPA strongly preferred
- 7+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience
- Prior law firm or professional services accounting experience strongly preferred
- Experience with IOLTA/trust accounting highly preferred
- Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, billing, and collections
- Demonstrated ability to lead accounting operations while remaining hands-on
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills
- Experience with legal billing, accounting, and practice management systems preferred
Preferred Background
- Law Firm Controller
- Controller within a professional services organization
- Trust Accounting Experience
- Accounting Manager or Assistant Controller with significant law firm experience
- Finance leader seeking broader responsibility and ownership of a finance function
Ideal Candidate
This role is best suited for a hands-on finance leader who enjoys being deeply involved in the daily operations of the business. The successful candidate will be comfortable overseeing trust accounting, managing billing and collections, preparing financial reports, leading a small team, and serving as a trusted advisor to firm leadership. Success in this position will come from strong execution, attention to detail, operational excellence, and a willingness to roll up your sleeves.
FAQs
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