Controller

Reports to: Managing Principal

About the Employer: A 50 year old Washington DC-based boutique law firm that represents and advises clients regulated by FDA, USDA, and U.S. Customs. We have a strong national reputation as a regulatory compliance and government relations firm. Most staff have long-standing employment with the firm, an indication of our collegial, family-friendly working culture.

The firm consists of 20+ attorneys and 15 advisors and support staff. Several of the team members work part time and/or are on “of counsel”-style compensation arrangements.

Job Overview: The Controller will oversee and manage the full spectrum of accounting, payroll, and financial operations within the firm. Reporting to the Managing Principals, the individual in this role is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, reporting key information to the Managing Principals, managing the accounting and payroll team, and driving process improvements that enhance efficiency. The ideal candidate is strategic, detail oriented, and has strong leadership capabilities with experience in professional services firms.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Oversee and manage all accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, collections, general ledger, and month-end close processes and proactively communicate deadlines, risks, and results to firm leadership
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance
• Responsible for trust billing, payroll processing, and benefits administration
• Ensure proper reconciliation of bank, credit card, and trust/IOLTA accounts
• Analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and provide solutions to maintain clean, accurate books
• Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls and accounting policies to safeguard assets
• Prepare financial statements, trend analysis, KPIs, practice area profitability, and ad-hoc reports for leadership
• Manage and improve accounting processes and systems, leveraging technology for efficiency
• Coordinate with outside tax preparation firm, banks, and benefits providers as needed
• Ensure compliance with applicable financial, tax, payroll, and accounting regulations, including coordination of required filings
• Act as the firm’s subject matter expert on accounting systems, data integrity, and financial controls, serving as the primary point of escalation for complex issues
• Partner with firm leadership on budgeting, forecasting, cash-flow planning, and long-term financial strategy

Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• CPA or CMA designation preferred but not required
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role
• Experience managing accounting operations in a law firm
• Strong understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and financial reporting requirements
• Proficiency with SurePoint Financial Core (Coyote) system, or comparable legal billing software and accounting platforms, and advanced Excel skills
• Exceptional organizational, leadership, and problem-solving abilities
• Strong ethical standards with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information

Location: The Controller will be able to work remotely and/or in our offices. The firm is headquartered in Washington, DC, but the team primarily works remotely. From time-to-time, the Controller will be required to attend meetings or perform tasks in-office with advance notice. Preference will be given to candidates within 2-hours driving distance to Washington, DC.

Software: The firm uses SurePoint FinanceCore to manage accounting and billing. Candidates with prior FinanceCore experience will receive preference. However, the firm will provide training for the right candidate if necessary.

Salary and Benefits: Salary is competitive, commensurate with experience.

The firm offers:

• 401(k) with match;
• Insurance: health, dental, life, long-term disability;
• Health Spending Account/ Flexible Spending Account

This role offers the opportunity to work closely with firm leadership and play a key role in shaping the financial operations of a nationally respected boutique law firm.

Application: Please submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected].