Contoller

We are a national, multi-state insurance defense litigation firm with approximately 300 employees seeking a Controller! The Controller is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting operations of the law firm, ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and the effective management of financial resources. This role provides strategic financial guidance to firm leadership and manages accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, trust accounting, budgeting, payroll, and financial analysis.

CPA's are preferred.

• Direct and manage all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
• Monitor firm profitability, attorney productivity, realization rates, and other key performance indicators.
• Develop and maintain financial forecasts, budgets, and cash flow projections.
• Analyze financial results and provide recommendations to improve financial performance.

• Oversee attorney trust accounts (IOLTA and client trust accounts) and ensure compliance with state bar regulations.
• Maintain internal controls to safeguard firm assets and client funds.
• Ensure adherence to accounting standards, tax regulations, and legal industry requirements.
• Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting.
• Supervise billing, collections, and revenue recognition processes.
• Work closely with partners and practice groups to improve billing efficiency and collection cycles.
• Monitor accounts receivable aging and implement collection strategies.
• Ensure accurate matter setup, billing rates, and expense allocation.

• Partner with firm leadership to support long-term financial planning and growth initiatives.
• Evaluate investment opportunities, financing alternatives, and capital expenditures.
• Provide financial analysis for mergers, acquisitions, office expansions, and other strategic initiatives.
• Develop policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency.

• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting and finance staff.
• Establish departmental goals and performance metrics.
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with attorneys, administrators, and external service providers.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• MBA or advanced degree is a plus.

• 7+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
• 3+ years of leadership experience overseeing accounting teams.
• Experience with in a law firm, professional services firm, or legal industry strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of law firm accounting systems, billing platforms, and trust accounting requirements.

• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
• Extensive knowledge of law firm financial operations, including trust accounting and legal billing.
• Advanced proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Legal practice management software (e.g., Clio, Pro Law, Aderant, Elite 3E)
• Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, Quick Books, or comparable accounting systems
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools

• Ability to sit for extended periods and…