Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

Controller at Balch & Bingham LLP

Balch & Bingham LLP – Birmingham, AL

The Controller is a key member of the firm’s administrative leadership team, responsible for overseeing accounting and financial operations for the firm. This role ensures accurate financial reporting, maintains robust internal controls, manages the firm’s budgeting and forecasting processes, and provides strategic financial insight to support firm leadership in decision‑making. The ideal candidate will bring both technical accounting expertise and a strong understanding of the business dynamics within a law firm or professional services environment.

• Oversee all general ledger and accounts payable functions.
• Prepare, analyze, and provide narrative for monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Develop and monitor internal controls to safeguard firm assets and ensure compliance with firm policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage tax and governmental reporting and requirements, including but not limited to attorney dues and licenses, property taxes and state partnership taxes, firm tax returns, 1099 reporting and K‑1 statements.
• Maintain Fixed Asset System and calculate depreciation.
• Serve as the administrator on firm bank accounts and credit cards, oversee balances and required maintenance.
• Lead the annual budgeting process in collaboration with firm leadership and department heads.
• Provide monthly budget‑to‑actual variance reports with analysis and recommendations.
• Forecast firm cash flow and monitor working capital needs.
• Supervise and develop accounting staff, promoting a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Foster collaboration with other administrative departments.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a management role.
• Prior experience in a law firm or professional services organization highly desirable.
• Knowledge of financial and accounting operations, reporting standards, compliance regulations, and financial analysis.
• Experience with legal accounting software (e.g., Elite 3E, Aderant, or similar) preferred.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.

• Seniority level:
  Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type:
  
  Full‑time
• Job function:
  Finance
• Industry: Law Practice

Balch & Bingham LLP is an equal employment opportunity employer. Balch & Bingham LLP provides equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment. All applicants and employees will be treated in a non‑discriminatory manner, without regard to age, color, disability, gender (including gender identity or expression), genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status or any classification protected by federal, state or local law.