Controller National Insurance Defense Law FirmThe Opportunity:We are a national, multi-state insurance defense litigation firm with approximately 300 employees seeking a Controller! The Controller is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting operations of the law firm, ensuring the accuracy of financial reporting, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and the effective management of financial resources. This role provides strategic financial guidance to firm leadership and manages accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, trust accounting, budgeting, payroll, and financial analysis. CPA's are preferred.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management & Reporting- Direct and manage all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
- Monitor firm profitability, attorney productivity, realization rates, and other key performance indicators.
- Develop and maintain financial forecasts, budgets, and cash flow projections.
- Analyze financial results and provide recommendations to improve financial performance.
Trust Accounting & Compliance- Oversee attorney trust accounts (IOLTA and client trust accounts) and ensure compliance with state bar regulations.
- Maintain internal controls to safeguard firm assets and client funds.
- Ensure adherence to accounting standards, tax regulations, and legal industry requirements.
- Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting.
Billing & Revenue Management- Supervise billing, collections, and revenue recognition processes.
- Work closely with partners and practice groups to improve billing efficiency and collection cycles.
- Monitor accounts receivable aging and implement collection strategies.
- Ensure accurate matter setup, billing rates, and expense allocation.
Strategic Planning- Partner with firm leadership to support long-term financial planning and growth initiatives.
- Evaluate investment opportunities, financing alternatives, and capital expenditures.
- Provide financial analysis for mergers, acquisitions, office expansions, and other strategic initiatives.
- Develop policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency.
Leadership & Team Management- Lead, mentor, and develop accounting and finance staff.
- Establish departmental goals and performance metrics.
- Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with attorneys, administrators, and external service providers.
QualificationsEducation- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
- CPA designation strongly preferred.
- MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
Experience- 7+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
- 3+ years of leadership experience overseeing accounting teams.
- Experience within a law firm, professional services firm, or legal industry strongly preferred.
- Knowledge of law firm accounting systems, billing platforms, and trust accounting requirements.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities- Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
- Extensive knowledge of law firm financial operations, including trust accounting and legal billing.
- Advanced proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
- Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Preferred Systems Experience- Legal practice management software (e.g., Clio, ProLaw, Aderant, Elite 3E)
- Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, QuickBooks, or comparable accounting systems
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools
Physical Requirements- Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer.
- Occasional lifting of files and office materials up to 20 pounds.
Success Metrics- Accurate and timely financial reporting.
- Compliance with trust accounting and regulatory requirements.
- Improved collection rates and reduction in aged receivables.
- Effective budget management and cash flow optimization.
- Strong internal controls and successful audit outcomes.
Ideal Candidate Profile:- Strategic, business-oriented finance leader with strong executive presence
- Comfortable advising and influencing firm owners and senior partners
- Able to communicate complex financial concepts clearly to non-financial stakeholders
- Hands-on, collaborative, and solutions-focused leadership style
- High level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism
What We Offer:- Direct collaboration and strategic partnership with executive leadership
- Salary range depending on depth and years of experience
- Annual performance bonuses based on organizational and individual results
- Annual reviews with potential for significant salary growth
- Hybrid work environment
- Flexible work hours
- Medical Insurance - Currently provided by Cigna Healthcare with multiple plans to choose from; partially paid for by the company; all outpatient mental health services are free of charge with no copays
- Optional Dental & Vision Insurance
- Optional Voluntary Life and Disability Insurance
- Optional Voluntary Accident Insurance
- Optional Critical Illness Insurance
- Optional Cancer Insurance
- Optional Hospitalization Insurance
- Optional Health Savings Account
- Optional Flexible Spending Account
- 401k after one calendar year of employment
- Paid time off (PTO) to support your overall well-being
- Supportive and collaborative work environment
To learn more about Lydecker LLP, please visit our website at www.Lydecker.com or visit LinkedIn #LydeckerCareers #LydeckerLife #LydeckerAuthenticDiversity
Lydecker LLP is not currently accepting resumes or inquiries from outside recruiters or agencies.
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