Position OverviewWe are seeking a highly experienced, hands-on
CONTROLLER to lead the accounting and financial operations of a growing, mid-sized law firm of approximately 50-60 attorneys. This role requires a balance of strategic oversight and day-to-day execution, supporting firm leadership with accurate financial reporting, operational insights, and forward-looking analysis.
The ideal candidate has law firm accounting experience, though this is not an absolute requirement.
Must leverage AI-driven tools and advanced Excel modeling to enhance reporting, forecasting, and decision-making. Reports directly to Firm Leadership/Partners.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management & Reporting- Oversee the full-cycle accounting function, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and legal billing operations
- Prepare and deliver timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including partner-level reporting
- Lead the month-end and year-end close processes with accuracy and timeliness
- Review general ledger activity, investigate variances, and ensure proper reconciliations across all accounts
- Ensure compliance with legal accounting standards, including trust accounting (IOLTA) and regulatory requirements
Billing & Collections- Oversee and develop law firm billing and collections procedures using Centerbase, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and integration with accounting systems
- Provide practice group and partner profitability analysis, revenue tracking, and expense management insights
Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis- Partner with leadership on annual budgeting, financial planning, and strategic initiatives
- Build and maintain advanced Excel models for budgeting, forecasting, and scenario planning
- Maintain and optimize QuickBooks for financial reporting and internal controls
AI, Technology & Process Improvement- Leverage AI tools (Claude preferred) and automation to improve financial reporting, forecasting, data analysis, and dashboard creation; must be comfortable with AI prompting concepts
- Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and scalability as the firm grows
- Collaborate with attorneys and business professionals across the firm to support operational and strategic goals
Team Management- Manage the firm's bookkeeper (one direct report after 60-90 day ramp-up) and oversee the billing and collections function
- Work closely with the firm's CEO/CFO and firm management
- Perform additional duties as needed to support firm operations
QualificationsRequired- Accounting degree (CPA not required)
- 5-7 years of accounting experience, including 2+ years managing or mentoring accounting staff
- Experience with business accounts in the $30M-$50M range
- Strong proficiency with QuickBooks
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including financial modeling and data analysis
- Demonstrated experience using AI tools in a finance/accounting context (e.g., creating reports, pulling data, building dashboards); Claude experience preferred
- Deep understanding of financial operations, including billing and collections
- Highly detail-oriented and proficient with accounting technology and systems
Preferred- Law firm or professional services accounting experience
- Experience with legal billing platforms (e.g., Centerbase)
Personal Attributes- Comfortable managing a small team and working collaboratively across departments
- Proactive problem-solver who identifies opportunities for improvement
Benefits: Frier Levitt offers a hybrid schedule, competitive salary, and a full range of benefits, including PTO, medical, dental, vision, 401(k) (upon eligibility to participate), additional voluntary benefits, on-site gym, and opportunities for substantial salary progression based on performance and contributions.
The posted salary is a good faith prediction. Actual salary will depend on years of experience and other factors.
