Contoller

Lydecker LLP • Orlando, FL

19d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Controller oversees all financial and accounting operations of a national, multi-state insurance defense law firm with approximately 300 employees. The role ensures accurate financial reporting, compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and effective management of financial resources. It provides strategic financial guidance to firm leadership and manages general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, trust accounting, budgeting, payroll, and financial analysis. CPA designation is strongly preferred.

The Controller leads financial management and reporting, trust accounting and compliance, billing and revenue management, strategic planning, and the accounting and finance team. The position works with firm leadership, attorneys, administrators, and external service providers to support financial performance, operational efficiency, and the firm’s growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
• At least 3 years of leadership experience overseeing accounting teams.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
• Extensive knowledge of law firm financial operations, including trust accounting and legal billing.
• Advanced proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer.
• Occasional lifting of files and office materials up to 20 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• CPA designation is strongly preferred.
• MBA or another advanced degree is a plus.
• Experience within a law firm, professional services firm, or legal industry is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of law firm accounting systems, billing platforms, and trust accounting requirements.
• Experience with legal practice management software such as Clio, ProLaw, Aderant, or Elite 3E.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, QuickBooks, or comparable accounting systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel and financial reporting tools experience.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
• Monitor firm profitability, attorney productivity, realization rates, and other key performance indicators.
• Develop and maintain financial forecasts, budgets, and cash flow projections.
• Analyze financial results and recommend improvements to financial performance.
• Oversee attorney trust accounts, including IOLTA and client trust accounts, and ensure compliance with state bar regulations.
• Maintain internal controls to safeguard firm assets and client funds.
• Ensure adherence to accounting standards, tax regulations, and legal industry requirements.
• Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting.
• Supervise billing, collections, and revenue recognition processes.
• Work with partners and practice groups to improve billing efficiency and collection cycles.
• Monitor accounts receivable aging and implement collection strategies.
• Ensure accurate matter setup, billing rates, and expense allocation.
• Partner with firm leadership on long-term financial planning and growth initiatives.
• Evaluate investment opportunities, financing alternatives, and capital expenditures.
• Provide financial analysis for mergers, acquisitions, office expansions, and other strategic initiatives.
• Develop policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency.
• Lead, mentor, and develop accounting and finance staff.
• Establish departmental goals and performance metrics.
• Foster accountability, professionalism, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with attorneys, administrators, and external service providers.

Benefits

• Annual performance bonuses based on organizational and individual results.
• Annual reviews with potential for significant salary growth.
• Hybrid work environment.
• Flexible work hours.
• Medical insurance through Cigna Healthcare, with multiple plans; partially paid for by the company.
• Outpatient mental health services with no copays.
• Optional dental insurance.
• Optional vision insurance.
• Optional voluntary life and disability insurance.
• Optional voluntary accident insurance.
• Optional critical illness insurance.
• Optional cancer insurance.
• Optional hospitalization insurance.
• Optional health savings account.
• Optional flexible spending account.
• 401(k) after one calendar year of employment.
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Supportive and collaborative work environment.
• Paid parking or commuter benefits.
• Quarterly bonus opportunities based on billable hours.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager