Controller

TITLE: CONTROLLER

LOCATION: PINE BROOK, NJ

POSITION: FULL TIME/DIRECT HIRE

Position Overview:

We 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 strong law firm accounting experience, is comfortable operating in a lean environment, and can leverage AI-driven tools and advanced Excel modeling to enhance reporting, forecasting, and decision-making. You will report directly to the CEO and Firm Leadership/Partners along with the Bookkeeper reporting directly to you.

Key Responsibilities:

Oversee the full-cycle accounting function, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and legal billing operations
Directly manage and mentor the Bookkeeper, ensuring accuracy and efficiency across daily accounting activities
Prepare and deliver timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including partner-level reporting
Provide practice group and partner profitability analysis, revenue tracking, and expense management insights
Lead the month-end and year-end close processes in a timely and accurate manner
Oversee law firm billing operations using Centerbase, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and integration with accounting systems
Maintain and optimize QuickBooks for financial reporting and internal controls
Utilize AI tools and automation to improve financial reporting, forecasting, and data analysis capabilities
Build and maintain advanced Excel models for budgeting, forecasting, and scenario planning
Ensure compliance with legal accounting standards, including trust accounting (IOLTA) and regulatory requirements
Review general ledger activity, investigate variances, and ensure proper reconciliations across all accounts
Oversee payroll processing and coordination with third-party providers (e.g., ADP or similar)
Partner with leadership on annual budgeting, financial planning, and strategic initiatives
Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and scalability as the firm grows
Serve as a key financial advisor to the CEO and partners, translating financial data into actionable insights
Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to firm-wide operational strategy
Perform additional duties as needed to support firm operations

Qualifications:

10+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including significant law firm experience (required)
Proven experience in a mid-sized or growing firm environment, with the ability to be both strategic and hands-on
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
CPA and/or MBA strongly preferred
Strong experience with QuickBooks (required) and Centerbase or similar legal billing platforms (required)
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including financial modeling and data analysis
Demonstrated experience leveraging AI tools for reporting, forecasting, and operational efficiency
Deep understanding of law firm financial operations, including billing, collections, and trust accounting (IOLTA)
Prior experience managing or mentoring accounting staff
Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
Strong communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with attorneys and firm leadership
High attention to detail, integrity, and accountability

Core Competencies:

Hands-on financial leadership in a mid-sized environment
Strategic thinking with operational execution
Data analysis and AI-driven reporting
Process improvement and scalability
Collaboration with attorneys and business professionals