GHJ Search and Staffing serves as the recruitment division of GHJ a prominent national accounting and advisory firm. Our team provides qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on a temporary and permanent basis across a broad range of industries. GHJs relationship with our Global Advisory and Accounting Network provides the resources needed to better understand clients needs attract a higher caliber of candidates and assess candidate potential.
A fast-growing firm is seeking a seasoned Financial Controller to lead both its financial and trust accounting functions. Reporting directly to the CFO this high-impact leadership role will oversee daily accounting operations ensure compliance with regulatory and internal controls and maintain the integrity of client trust accounts in accordance with State Bar requirements.
This individual will play a critical role in financial reporting budgeting and internal controls while mentoring and developing a growing accounting team. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in trust accounting and law firm financial operations and thrives in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Accounting & Reporting (40%)
Oversee daily financial operations including accounts payable accounts receivable payroll general ledger and month-end close.
Prepare timely and accurate financial statements and internal reports within 7 business days.
Partner with the CFO to develop budgets cash flow projections and operational forecasts.
Ensure compliance with GAAP tax laws and internal financial policies.
Lead annual audits tax filings and regulatory reviews in collaboration with third-party CPA firms.
Manage biweekly payroll processing in partnership with HR.
Design and maintain internal controls to ensure data integrity and safeguard firm assets.
Trust Accounting & Settlement Management (50%)
Oversee all client trust accounts to ensure strict compliance with State Bar rules on safekeeping of client funds.
Manage disbursements for settlements lien payments and third-party distributions.
Monitor trust transactions to prevent co-mingling or overdrafts.
Conduct monthly reconciliations and promptly resolve discrepancies.
Work closely with legal and case management teams to manage disbursement processes and maintain detailed trust records.
Financial Operations Leadership (10%)
Lead and develop the accounting team through mentorship training and performance management.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance financial workflows and reporting.
Identify and implement new systems and process improvements for increased accuracy and efficiency.
Support the CFO with FP&A KPI dashboards and other strategic initiatives.
Qualifications:
Bachelors degree in Accounting Finance or related field; CPA (active or inactive) required.
Minimum 12 years of progressive accounting experience including financial statement preparation and trust accounting.
At least 3 years of leadership experience in a law firm or contingency-based business model.
Deep understanding of trust accounting and legal industry compliance standards.
Proficiency in financial systems (e.g. QuickBooks) and advanced Excel skills.
Exceptional organizational and communication skills.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
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