Controller

Are you a strategic financial leader ready to shape the future of a premier, globally recognized professional services firm? We are seeking an experienced Controller to lead core accounting operations, general ledger management, and financial reporting functions. In this high-visibility role, you will drive continuous improvement across the finance unit, mentor a high-performing team across multiple locations (including global offices), and optimize system workflows using modern technology and automation. Working alongside executive leadership, you will serve as a trusted subject matter expert, safeguarding financial integrity while executing strategic initiatives in a fast-paced environment.

This position offers a hybrid work schedule with an onsite requirement of 3 days per week in either Washington, DC or New York, NY.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead full accounting operations, including general ledger management, monthly/year-end close, balance sheet and bank reconciliations, payroll accounting, fixed assets, internal controls, and external audits.

• Manage banking activities, cash forecasting, treasury initiatives, and relationships with financial institution representatives.

• Oversee accounting activities across international offices, ensuring full integration and alignment with global processes.

• Mentor and develop the accounting team to foster technical excellence, accountability, and process discipline across locations.

• Drive workflow optimization and automation, leveraging modern technology, ERP configurations, and emerging AI tools to reduce manual processes.

• Provide direct oversight of client trust accounting activities, ensuring regulatory compliance, timely resolutions, and effective stakeholder communication.

• Implement system-based and manual compliance protocols to safeguard the firm against errors, fraud, and irregularities.

• Serve as the primary accounting leader on cross-functional initiatives, firmwide system implementations, and process redesigns.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Industry Experience: Direct experience within a multi-state or global law firm, or a global professional services organization delivering complex, high-end services.

• Scale: Proven experience leading an accounting function within an enterprise generating $500M+ in revenue.

• Systems & Optimization: Demonstrated success optimizing complex ERP systems to scale across an enterprise (experience with 3E or Aderant is highly preferred).

• Leadership: Extensive management experience overseeing both direct and indirect reports across multiple offices.

• Executive Presence: Proven track record presenting to C-suite leadership with polished communication skills and meticulous attention to detail.

• Education & Credentials: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. Active CPA required; candidates with extensive global law firm experience may be considered with a CPA in progress or equivalent experience.