Law Firm Operations & Finance Lead

Smith Legal Search; Calgary; On-site; CAD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Smith Legal Search in Calgary seeks an experienced Office Manager to own day-to-day operations, combining accounting expertise with hands-on people management and proactive problem solving. You will work closely with lawyers and staff to maintain a professional, collaborative workplace and ensure smooth operations across finances, HR, and administration.

The role emphasizes overseeing billing, trust accounting, payroll, and vendor relations within a respected Calgary firm that values a

Qualifications

• Prior law firm experience in a comparable role with a strong emphasis on accounting and human resources.
• Working knowledge of provincial law society trust accounting requirements.
• Demonstrated proficiency with legal accounting software (e.g., Unity/ESILaw), Excel, Word, and Adobe.
• A self-starter who takes initiative and works effectively with minimal supervision.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the firm's finances, including managing the billing cycle, processing banking transactions, and completing monthly bank reconciliations.
• Handle the receipt and disbursement of funds, including trust funds, and ensure disbursements and payments are accurately posted.
• Manage accounts payable, prepare GST remittances, and reconcile and post credit card statements.
• Calculate lawyer payments tied to fee arrangements.
• Lead the human resources function — running payroll and benefits, tracking vacation and sick time, and providing day-to-day supervision of administrative staff.
• Support recruitment and onboarding of new team members.
• Prepare supporting documentation for the firm's external accountant ahead of financial statement preparation.
• Coordinate required filings and payments with the governing law society and the firm's insurers.
• Serve as the primary liaison with building management, vendors, and suppliers.
• Work alongside IT consultants to ensure office equipment, technology, and software platforms remain current and well maintained.
• Report to the partners and assist with the broader administration of the practice.

Skills

Accounting

Leadership

Payroll

HR management

Trust accounting

Billing

Financial reporting

Communication

Tools

Unity/ESILaw

Excel

Word

Adobe

Job description

Smith Legal Search in Calgary seeks an experienced Office Manager to own day-to-day operations, combining accounting expertise with hands-on people management and proactive problem solving. You will work closely with lawyers and staff to maintain a professional, collaborative workplace and ensure smooth operations across finances, HR, and administration.

The role emphasizes overseeing billing, trust accounting, payroll, and vendor relations within a respected Calgary firm that values a