Comptroller - Law Firm

TalentConnect; New York (NY); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 175,000; Full time

Job summary

TalentConnect's client, a top-ranked New York-based boutique law firm, seeks a Comptroller to bridge staff and attorneys, overseeing bookkeeping and billing while driving process improvements.

The role reports to the Management Committee and interacts with a billing manager; strong integrity and communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business or accounting is required.
• 7–10 years of frontline bookkeeping in a law firm.
• Advanced knowledge of 3E/Elite and Excel, with trust accounting experience.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting and billing system; use 3E daily.
• Process A/R, A/P, trust accounts, and GL reconciliations.
• Prepare monthly financial reports and tax estimates.
• Coordinate with external accountants and vendors.
• Drive improvements in financial reporting processes.

Skills

Front-line bookkeeping

Analytical thinking

Strong communication

Problem solving

Attention to detail

Multitasking

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or accounting

Tools

3E/Elite

Microsoft Office 360

Advanced Excel

Trust accounting knowledge

Job description

Our client, a top-ranked New York-based boutique law firm is seeking a Comptroller. This full-charge bookkeeping role reports directly to the Management Committee and oversees the firm’s billing administrator. The ideal candidate will be able to serve as a bridge between the firm’s staff and attorneys while fostering change and process improvement.

The ideal candidate must have a blend of technical expertise, analytical abilities and strong communication skills, coupled with the highest integrity. The Comptroller will oversee and work closely with one billing manager and will report to the Management Committee.

Responsibilities

• Regularly work with and develop relationship with Management Committee
• Manage and maintain accounting and billing system, including using 3E on a daily basis
• Execute all daily bookkeeping tasks including processing of accounts payable and receivable, trust account transactions, day-to-day banking issues (deposits, wire and ACH payments and transfers, Positive Pay, etc.), and maintaining the firm’s general ledger, trust ledger and other accounting records
• Daily verification of compliance with internal controls and policies
• Ensure appropriate use of expense accounts in the general ledger, as well as reconciling and allocating expenses to clients and matters
• Handle month-end and year-end processes, including all account reconciliations (including three-way reconciliations of trust accounts), adjusting journal entries, etc. and preparation of monthly financial reports and statements
• Serve as primary contact with, and provide complete and accurate information to outside accountants for quarterly tax estimates including UBT, CRT and state and local pass-through entity taxes (PTET) and annual review of financial statements and preparation of firm tax returns and K-1s
• Generate and distribute 1099s, as needed
• Work with attorneys to investigate and address billing and accounting issues
• Communicate directly with external vendors, such as accountants, CPAs, and banks
• Identify and execute improvements to the firm’s accounting and financial reporting processes
• Other projects and responsibilities, as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in business or accounting required
• 7-10 years of front-line bookkeeping experience in a law firm
• Advanced knowledge of 3E/Elite and Microsoft Office 360, including expert Excel proficiency
• Advanced knowledge of trust accounting for retainers and other client funds, including state bar audits
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting
• Familiarity with e-billing systems
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, organizational and problem-solving skills
• Outstanding accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask, work independently, and work well under pressure, deadlines and competing demands
• Flexible and adaptable to change
• Scrupulously honest and reliable

The compensation for this position ranges from $125,000.00 - $175,000.00. Actual compensation will be dependent upon the specific role, office location as well as the individual’s qualifications, experience, skills and certifications.

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Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.