Controller, Accounting, Accounting Manager

Accountants One is working with a well‑established, mid‑sized law firm seeking a hands‑on Controller to manage the day‑to‑day accounting and financial operations of the firm. This role works closely with the Executive Director, reporting to the Managing Partner, and is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records and providing clear, consistent reporting to firm leadership.

This position is well-suited for someone who enjoys being deep in the details, takes ownership of daily financial activity, and brings structure and discipline to a professional services environment.

The Controller will oversee all accounting, financial reporting, and trust accounting functions for the firm. The focus of this role is execution: daily reconciliations, accurate reporting, compliance, and steady oversight of financial processes. The Controller will manage a small accounting team and serve as the primary point of contact for cash flow tracking, partner draws, financial reporting, trust account management, and coordination with outside accountants.

• Manage daily accounting activities, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and cash management.
• Perform daily bank and trust account reconciliations, ensuring accuracy across operating accounts, the firm’s single IOLTA trust account, and other bank accounts as requested.
• Process and track ACH payments, checks, and deposits.
• Oversee vendor payments and support the Executive Director with vendor coordination as needed.
• Maintain accurate accounting records in accordance with GAAP.

• Lead monthly close and prepare timely financial statements.
• Produce amonthly reporting package for firm leadership, including balance sheet, income statement, cash summary, and variance explanations.
• Prepare and maintain annual budgets and provide monthly actual vs. budget reporting.
• Coordinate with outside CPA firms for tax filings, year‑end reporting, and audit support.
• Support periodic compliance audits, including workers’ compensation audits.

• Maintain full responsibility for the firm’s IOLTA trust account, ensuring strict compliance with State Bar requirements.
• Monitor trust activity daily to prevent overdrafts, commingling, or posting errors.
• Process trust deposits and disbursements with proper documentation.
• Perform monthly trust ledger reconciliations and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Work closely with attorneys and administrative staff to ensure appropriate handling of client funds.
• Review billing, collections, and realization reports to ensure clean data and proper posting.
• Track daily cash activity and provide visibility into operating balances and partner‑related activity.
• Manage partner draws, distributions, and related reporting.

• Supervise a small accounting team, providing clear expectations and hands‑on guidance.
• Maintain and improve accounting workflows, policies, and internal controls.
• Evaluate and support accounting and time & billing systems;
  Aderant and Filevine experience a plus.
• Ensure processes are followed consistently before recommending improvements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (required).
• 6+ years of accounting experience within a professional services environment; law firm experience strongly preferred.
• Direct experience with trust accounting and IOLTA compliance.
• Strong working knowledge of monthly close, financial reporting, and bank reconciliations.
• Experience managing partner draws, retirement plan activity (including 401(k) disbursements), and compliance audits.
• Time & billing system experience required.
• Advanced Excel skills and comfort working in accounting systems.
• Clear communicator with a steady, practical management style.