Gerber Ciano Kelly Brady LLP is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the firm's financial operations and reporting functions. This role requires hands-on expertise with legal practice management/billing systems and a strong background in law firm financial management, including trust accounting, client billing, and firm-wide financial reporting.
The ideal candidate is a strategic, detail-oriented finance leader who can manage day-to-day accounting operations while also partnering with firm leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning. Experience with Aderant required. SQL and SSRS reporting is preferred but not required for the right candidate.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management & Reporting- Direct all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, fixed assets, and trust accounting.
- Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
- Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to firm leadership and partners.
- Work with the COO and firm management to develop financial metrics, dashboards, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate firm performance.
- Monitor revenue, expenses, profitability, realization rates, utilization rates, and working capital.
Budgeting & Forecasting- Lead the annual budgeting process and ongoing financial forecasting activities.
- Provide financial modeling and analysis to support strategic initiatives and partner decision-making.
- Monitor departmental and practice area budgets and recommend corrective actions when necessary.
- Analyze trends and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and profitability.
Cash Management & Treasury- Manage firm cash flow, banking relationships, and treasury functions.
- Oversee collections and working capital management.
- Monitor trust account balances and ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations.
- Develop and maintain cash flow forecasts to support operational and strategic planning.
Law Firm Accounting & Compliance- Ensure compliance with GAAP, firm policies, and legal industry accounting requirements.
- Oversee attorney trust accounting (IOLTA) and related reconciliations.
- Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting.
- Maintain strong internal controls and financial risk management processes.
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax requirements.
Leadership & Team Management- Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting and finance team.
- Establish performance goals and professional development plans for staff.
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Partner with HR regarding payroll accounting, benefits accounting, and compensation reporting.
Partner Compensation & Firm Analysis- Support partner compensation calculations and reporting.
- Analyze attorney productivity, realization, collections, and profitability.
- Prepare financial presentations and recommendations for executive leadership and partnership meetings.
- Provide actionable insights to improve firm financial performance.
Systems & Process Improvement- Oversee financial systems, accounting software, and reporting tools.
- Identify opportunities for automation and process improvements.
- Collaborate with IT and operational leaders on technology enhancements.
- Ensure data integrity and security of financial information.
QualificationsEducation- Bachelor's degree in accounting required.
- MBA or advanced finance degree is a plus.
Experience- Bachelor's degree in Accounting required; CPA preferred.
- 7+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including prior experience as a Controller or senior finance leader.
- Law firm experience required.
- Hands-on experience with Aderant is required.
- Knowledge of and use of SQL and SSRS reporting with Aderant.
- Strong understanding of trust accounting and multi-jurisdictional compliance requirements.
- Proven experience managing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for a multi-office organization.
- Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
- Experience with legal billing, partner compensation models, and trust accounting.
- Advanced financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting skills.
- Strong knowledge of accounting software, ERP systems, and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills.
- Ability to influence and collaborate with attorneys, partners, and executive leadership.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Proven leadership and staff development capabilities.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)- Timeliness and accuracy of monthly financial reporting.
- Budget and forecast accuracy.
- Cash flow management and working capital metrics.
- Trust account compliance and audit results.
- Profitability by attorney, practice group, and office.
- Accounting department efficiency and staff development outcomes.
Compensation and BenefitsCompensation is commensurate with experience and skill set, and comes with a comprehensive benefits package including health, life, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 401(k) (with generous vested match), flexible work options, and paid time off.
Include shift schedule
