Controller

Richmond Vona LLC•Buffalo, NY

24d•Hybrid

About The Position

Richmond Vona is seeking an experienced Controller to lead and elevate the firm’s accounting and financial operations. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys building systems, solving problems, and thinking beyond the numbers. The Controller will oversee all core accounting functions while serving as a strategic business partner to ownership and leadership. This person must be both detail-oriented and forward-thinking — someone who understands how day-to-day accounting impacts the bigger picture of profitability, growth, and operational excellence. Reporting directly to executive leadership and working closely with our external CPA partners and Fractional CFO, the Controller will play a critical role in helping the firm scale intelligently and efficiently.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field
7+ years of progressive accounting experience
Prior experience in a Controller, Accounting Manager, Senior Accountant, or similar leadership role
Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, reconciliations, and internal controls
Experience managing full-cycle accounting operations
Advanced proficiency in accounting systems such as QuickBooks Online or similar platforms
Strong Excel and financial analysis skills
Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail

Nice To Haves

CPA or CPA-track
Experience in professional services industries (law firm, consulting, accounting firm, medical practice, agency, etc.)
Experience in a growing entrepreneurial company
Experience managing or mentoring staff
Experience with budgeting tools

Responsibilities

Lead all day-to-day accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, billing, general ledger, reconciliations, and month-end close
Ensure timely, accurate, and complete financial reporting on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis
Maintain accounting records and financial systems with a high level of accuracy and organization
Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and liquidity planning
Oversee trust/client funds handling and ensure proper controls and compliance
Oversee settlement disbursements, referral fee payments, and related financial controls
Maintain and strengthen internal controls to reduce risk, improve accuracy, and support accountability
Support compliance with law firm accounting requirements, including trust accounting and client fund management, as applicable
Prepare budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support business planning
Analyze trends, KPIs, margins, and profitability by department or practice area
Provide leadership with clear financial insights to support decision-making
Identify risks, opportunities, and cost-saving initiatives
Help leadership understand the financial impact of growth initiatives and investments
Develop reporting and dashboards that improve visibility into financial performance and key business drivers
Build and improve systems, workflows, and internal controls
Create more efficient processes that support future growth
Evaluate technology and automation opportunities across accounting functions
Develop documentation and SOPs to ensure consistency and accountability
Partner closely with Operations, HR, Marketing, Ownership, and outside advisors
Manage and mentor accounting or administrative team members as the department grows
Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, responsiveness, and continuous improvement
Communicate clearly and proactively across departments
Work closely with the firm’s external CPA partners and Fractional CFO to support accurate reporting, planning, and financial decision-making