Business Manager/Controller

Quilling Selander Lownds Winslett & Moser P C•Dallas, TX

About The Position

Quilling, Selander, Lownds, Winslett & Moser, P.C. seeks an experienced Business Manager/Controller to lead the firm’s financial operations and serve as a strategic advisor to firm leadership. Reporting directly to the Managing Shareholder, this role contributes to the firm’s financial management, business planning, and long-term success. The position combines hands-on accounting leadership with business analysis and recommendations to support the firm’s operations and growth. The Business Manager/Controller oversees accounting operations and financial reporting, leads planning and budgeting, and provides analysis of revenue, expenses, collections, and profitability. The role also manages financial controls and compliance, coordinates with external advisors, supervises accounting personnel, and collaborates with firm leadership and administrative departments on financial and business initiatives. The successful candidate will take ownership of the firm’s financial operations, identify opportunities for improvement, anticipate financial challenges, and provide practical recommendations. They will handle confidential financial and compensation information with discretion and build credibility with attorneys and administrative leadership.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
At least 7–10 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3–5 years in a controller, assistant controller, or comparable leadership role.
Demonstrated experience preparing financial statements and leading a monthly close.
Experience advising senior leadership or ownership on financial strategy.
Strong command of GAAP and financial reporting, with working knowledge of partnership and cash-basis accounting.
Expertise in internal controls, trust/IOLTA accounting compliance, and audit coordination.
Proficiency with legal practice management, e-billing, and accounting systems, as well as advanced Excel skills.
Working knowledge of tax compliance applicable to partnerships and professional firms.
Excellent analytical and financial-modeling skills, including the ability to turn data into strategic recommendations.
Strong business acumen and understanding of law firm economics and profitability drivers.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present financial concepts persuasively to non-financial partners.
Sound judgment, discretion, and ability to handle highly confidential financial and compensation information.
Collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to build credibility with attorneys and administrative leadership.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification is strongly preferred.
MBA or advanced degree is a plus.
Prior experience in a law firm or professional-services partnership is strongly preferred, including familiarity with origination, realization, and partnership accounting.

Responsibilities

Oversee accounting operations, including financial reporting, general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and payroll accounting.
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, ensuring accuracy and timely reporting.
Manage the monthly close process, reconciliations, internal controls, and accounting procedures.
Oversee client trust accounting and ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
Coordinate tax preparation, audits, and financial compliance matters with external advisors.
Supervise and develop accounting personnel.
Advise the Managing Shareholder and firm leadership on financial matters.
Lead financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
Analyze revenue, expenses, collections, and profitability to identify trends and opportunities.
Evaluate financial performance across practice groups, offices, and individual timekeepers.
Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support business growth, investments, and strategic initiatives.
Support financial analysis related to shareholder compensation, distributions, and profitability.
Manage banking relationships, treasury functions, and designated vendor relationships.
Evaluate business expenses, vendor contracts, and cost-saving opportunities.
Provide financial oversight and recommendations for significant business decisions.
Participate in evaluating and improving accounting systems, financial processes, and internal controls.
Collaborate with firm leadership and administrative departments on financial and business initiatives.