Accounting Manager / Controller

Location: Austin, TX (Hybrid/Remote; Texas-based preferred) Engagement Type: Full-Time Consulting Assignment (Minimum 12 Months) Position Overview Cherry Bekaert is seeking an experienced Accounting Manager or Controller-level professional to support a high-profile law firm client based near Austin, TX. This consultant will serve as a key accounting leader during a critical transition period, working closely with the client's executive leadership and existing finance team. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting professional who thrives in complex environments, enjoys untangling operational accounting challenges, and possesses the interpersonal skills necessary to navigate a sensitive organizational transition. The engagement is expected to last at least 12 months and may ultimately evolve into a longer-term consulting relationship or permanent opportunity. Position Summary The Accounting Manager/Controller Consultant will act as the primary bridge between the law firm's leadership, incumbent finance personnel. The individual will become deeply involved in day-to-day accounting operations, document and transition institutional knowledge, improve accounting processes, and help create timely, accurate financial reporting. A significant portion of the role will involve learning and documenting existing accounting procedures, supporting the completion and cleanup of historical accounting records, enhancing month-end close processes, and facilitating a smooth transition of accounting responsibilities over time. Key Responsibilities Serve as the primary accounting liaison among client leadership and the finance function. Develop a comprehensive understanding of the firm's accounting operations, reporting requirements, and financial processes. Assist with the cleanup, reconciliation, and completion of historical accounting records and financial reporting. Support the accurate and timely month-end and year-end close processes. Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvements related to accounting operations, reporting, and internal controls. Document critical accounting procedures, workflows, and institutional knowledge. Work closely with existing finance leadership to facilitate knowledge transfer and succession planning. Coordinate with external tax professionals and other advisors to ensure financial information is complete and accurate. Analyze complex transactions and provide guidance on appropriate accounting treatment. Assist with cash management, banking activities, reconciliations, and financial reporting. Provide financial insights and reporting to client leadership and key stakeholders. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. 7+ years of progressive accounting experience. Prior experience in an Accounting Manager, Assistant Controller, Controller, or similar leadership role. Strong operational accounting background with the ability to work independently and solve complex accounting issues. Experience managing month-end close, general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and financial reporting. Demonstrated ability to organize and improve accounting processes in a changing environment. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder management abilities. Ability to navigate sensitive situations with professionalism, discretion, and diplomacy. Preferred Experience within a law firm or legal services environment. Knowledge of law firm accounting practices, including: Case cost accounting Capitalization of case-related expenditures Trust accounting and IOLTA accounts Contingency-fee accounting environments Experience supporting accounting transitions, succession planning, or organizational change initiatives. Prior consulting or outsourced accounting experience. CPA designation preferred but not required. Ideal Candidate Profile The successful candidate will be a hands-on accounting leader who is comfortable rolling up their sleeves and working through accounting details while simultaneously helping improve the overall finance function. This individual must possess: Strong technical accounting and operational finance capabilities. High emotional intelligence and professional maturity. The ability to gain trust and collaborate with long-tenured employees. Confidence to lead without creating unnecessary disruption. A consultative and solution-oriented approach to problem solving. #J-18808-Ljbffr HRB