Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Groton, MA - USA
Job Summary
About Us:
HFM is more than an accounting firm - were dedicated partners in our clients success. For over 20 years weve built a reputation for precision innovation and exceptional client service. As a growing team we combine the personal attention of a close-knit firm with the depth of expertise our clients rely on for their most important decisions. We measure our success by the trust our clients place in us knowing were their first call when it matters most.
Position Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and execution-focused Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the day-to-day business operations of the firm. This role allows our partners to focus on client service advisory work and business development while the COO ensures the people processes technology and financial administration that keep the firm running smoothly and growing profitably. The ideal candidate is a hands-on operational leader who thrives in a fast-paced seasonal environment and is energized by building systems that scale.
What you will own:
- Lead day-to-day firm operations across service lines ensuring efficient and high-quality service delivery
- Design document and continuously improve internal workflows standard operating procedures and quality controls
- Own capacity planning and workload balancing across the firm particularly through busy season
- Oversee firm finances including budgeting billing collections cash flow and profitability reporting by service line and engagement
What you will assist with:
- Drive strategic planning and firm growth initiatives including potential mergers acquisitions or new service lines
- Manage the firms technology stack (practice management tax/attest software document management time and billing) and drive adoption and automation
- Oversee data security cybersecurity protocols and IT vendor relationships
- Support marketing business development and client experience efforts
- Manage facilities leases insurance risk management and firm compliance including peer review readiness and professional standards
About you:
- You are a proven operational leader who is equally comfortable setting strategy and executing the details
- You thrive in a high-velocity seasonal environment and adapt well to shifting priorities
- 5 years of progressive operational leadership experience preferably in professional services
- Strong command of business operations finance and human resources
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
- Demonstrated ability to lead people manage change and improve processes
- Comfortable learning and leveraging accounting industry software and platforms
- You are self-motivated reliable discreet with confidential information and collaborate well with others
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in or with a public accounting firm or other professional services environment
- CPA MBA or equivalent credential
- Familiarity with practice management and tax/attest software (e.g. Practice CS UltraTax SafeSend or similar)
- Experience scaling a small-to-midsize organization
- Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and confidentiality
Benefits:
- 401(k) with matching and profit-sharing contributions
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Flex time outside of busy season
- Competitive bonus structure and referral program
- Opportunity for growth and leadership in a supportive team-oriented environment
Required Experience:
Chief
About Company
Precision in accounting, partnership in your success. HFM is a trusted accounting firm whose CPAs provide audit, tax & advisory services throughout Southern New England. Offices in Groton CT & Westerly RI.