Controller

The Assistant Controller is a hands-on accounting professional responsible for supporting the day-to-day financial operations of the firm. Working closely with the CFO, this individual will be a doer first — someone who takes ownership of core accounting functions, ensures the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting, and actively contributes to budgeting, cash management, and internal controls. This is not a managerial role; the firm has an established accounting team in place. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, dependable, and comfortable rolling up their sleeves to get the work done. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Financial reporting and analysis Manage the end-to-end financial reporting process, including timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual closing procedures. Prepare and analyze financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, in compliance with GAAP. Assist the CFO with financial analysis, including variance analysis and performance metrics, to identify trends and assess financial health. Budgeting and forecasting Collaborate with department heads and the CFO on the annual budget and forecasting processes. Monitor budget performance, report on variances, and provide insights for corrective action. Develop and maintain financial forecasting models to support long-term financial planning. Operational Accounting Oversee and manage the general accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and the general ledger. Perform and support general accounting functions across accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and the general ledger, working alongside the existing accounting team. Ensure all accounting practices, record-keeping, and internal controls are compliant with legal guidelines and company policies. Maintain accurate records and follow established internal controls and accounting policies in compliance with legal and firm requirements. Administer and manage cash flow, including monitoring balances, preparing wire transfers, and tracking investments. Actively assist with cash flow activities, including monitoring account balances, processing wire transfers, and tracking investment positions. Coordinate and prepare for internal and external financial audits. Participate in audit preparation, including compiling workpapers and supporting schedules for internal and external auditors. CFO Support and Special Projects Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the accounting staff. Support the CFO on special projects, financial analysis, and ad hoc reporting as needed. Serve as a key business partner to the CFO, assisting with special projects, presentations, and financial strategy development. Communicate with firm leadership, lenders, and external auditors as needed; handle confidential financial information with discretion. Research complex accounting issues to ensure proper accounting treatment and compliance. Communicate with various stakeholders, including executives, stakeholders, and external auditors. Qualifications Education and experience Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance required (Finance considered with strong accounting focus) Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in accounting and finance, with leadership experience. Three to six years of hands‑on accounting experience; public accounting or industry background equally welcome Experience in a law firm or similar service industry is a plus. Experience in a law firm or professional services environment preferred; contingency‑fee firm experience a plus Skills and Abilities Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial software systems (e.g., QuickBooks On-Line). Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem‑solving skills. Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a finance team. Self-directed and comfortable working independently; willing to roll up their sleeves and take ownership of day-to-day accounting work. #J-18808-Ljbffr