Controller

The Accounts Payable Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the firm's accounts payable function — connecting the dots across payments, invoices, and vendor records with an exceptional level of accuracy and care. This role demands a highly meticulous, detail-obsessed professional who treats every invoice, code, and entry as consequential. The right candidate is process-driven to their core, has worked through month-end close, understands the grind to reach financial closure, and holds themselves to an exceptionally high standard of organization and precision. They bring strong accounting fundamentals — G/L coding, P&L expense classification, accrual vs. cash-basis reporting — and the discipline to execute those fundamentals flawlessly, every time. This role works closely with firm leadership to maintain rigorous financial controls, airtight workflows, and vendor accountability. Key Responsibilities Accounts Payable Operations Oversee the end-to-end accounts payable process with meticulous attention to every step — invoice intake, coding, approval routing, and payment processing Scrutinize all vendor invoices for accuracy, proper authorization, and strict alignment with vendor contracts and rate cards; nothing gets through without thorough review Leverage AI and automation tools to cross-check invoices against rate cards, systematically flag discrepancies, and enforce billing accuracy Manage payment cycles (checks, ACH, wires, credit cards) with zero tolerance for errors or missed deadlines Monitor accounts payable aging with precision — track every open item, follow up relentlessly, and drive disputed items to resolution Maintain and continuously strengthen internal controls to prevent errors, duplicate payments, or fraud Accounting & Month-End Close Own or actively participate in month-end close — this person has been in the weeds, knows what it takes, and doesn't drop the ball under deadline pressure Ensure meticulous coding of all expenses to the correct G/L live accounts and accurate P&L classifications — no miscodings, no shortcuts Reconcile accounts payable subledger to the general ledger monthly with a zero-discrepancy standard Apply a thorough understanding of accrual-basis vs. cash-basis reporting to ensure financial statements reflect reality accurately Support year-end close, audits, and financial reviews — organized, well-documented, and audit-ready at all times Vendor Management Manage vendor onboarding and maintenance with careful attention to W-9 collection, record accuracy, and completeness Serve as the primary point of contact for vendor inquiries — responsive, organized, and thorough in issue resolution Maintain a tightly organized repository of vendor contracts, service agreements, rate cards, and recurring subscriptions Reconcile vendor statements with a fine-toothed comb — investigate every discrepancy, no matter how small Manage 1099 preparation and year-end vendor reporting with exacting accuracy and on-time delivery Process Improvement & Leadership Develop, document, and rigorously enforce AP policies and procedures — build structured, repeatable workflows and hold the team accountable to them Identify and implement opportunities to improve efficiency through automation, AI-assisted tools, and system enhancements Train and supervise AP staff (if applicable), modeling and reinforcing a culture of precision, organization, and ownership Collaborate with department leaders to support budgeting, expense management, and financial planning Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (preferred) 5+ years of accounts payable experience, with prior supervisory or managerial experience preferred Demonstrated hands-on experience with month-end close — must have worked through or directly closed the books Exceptional attention to detail — this is non-negotiable; errors and oversights are not acceptable in this role Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple deadlines, competing priorities, and a high volume of transactions without things falling through the cracks Strong working knowledge of G/L coding, P&L expense classification, and accrual vs. cash-basis accounting Familiarity with AI tools or automation for invoice validation and rate card cross-checking is a strong plus Experience in a law firm or professional services environment strongly preferred Strong knowledge of AP best practices, internal controls, and 1099 reporting requirements Proficiency with accounting systems and AP software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP, or similar) Proven track record of driving processes to full closure — relentless follow-through, even under the pressure of month-end deadlines Excellent written and verbal communication skills; professional and precise in all vendor and internal interactions We’re committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team through a robust and thoughtfully designed benefits package, including: 401(k) with Employer Match – Plan for your future with confidence and company support. Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance – Comprehensive coverage to keep you and your family healthy. Short-Term, Long-Term Disability & Life Insurance – Financial protection for life’s unexpected events. Paid Parking – Convenient and covered, so you can focus on your day. Generous Paid Time Off – Ample time to rest, recharge, and take care of personal matters. Employee Referral Program – Earn rewards for introducing talented individuals to our team. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Confidential resources for personal and professional support. Employee Discount Program – Access to exclusive savings on a variety of products and services. Compensation will be $130k-$200k #J-18808-Ljbffr