Law Firm Controller & Strategic Finance Leader

Phaxis; Bethesda (MD); On-site; USD 140,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Phaxis, a law-focused professional services group, seeks a Controller/CFO to lead the accounting department and serve as the firm's senior financial leader. You will oversee accounting, financial reporting, cash management, trust accounting, and financial analysis, working closely with Partners and the COO/Office Administrator.

This hands-on leadership role supports strategic growth and long-term success. The ideal candidate has 7+ years in accounting leadership, a law firm or professional

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting and financial leadership experience.
• Prior experience in a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of financial reporting, cash management, internal controls, and accounting operations.
• Experience leading and developing accounting teams.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting and financial operations of the law firm.
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to firm leadership.
• Prepare and distribute weekly cash position reports including cash balances, collections activity, anticipated receipts, and significant upcoming expenditures.
• Develop financial dashboards and KPIs related to profitability, collections, realization, cash flow, and overall firm performance.
• Monitor financial position and liquidity, identifying risks and opportunities.
• Provide financial analysis and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
• Develop financial forecasts, reporting tools, and performance metrics to support firm leadership.
• Partner with Partners and Office Administrator/COO to evaluate financial trends, business opportunities, and operational initiatives.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Accounting Department.
• Oversee billing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and related functions.
• Improve processes, workflows, and internal controls to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and accountability.
• Promote a collaborative, service-oriented culture within the department.
• Oversee trust/IOLTA accounting and ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations.

Job description

Phaxis, a law-focused professional services group, seeks a Controller/CFO to lead the accounting department and serve as the firm's senior financial leader. You will oversee accounting, financial reporting, cash management, trust accounting, and financial analysis, working closely with Partners and the COO/Office Administrator.

This hands-on leadership role supports strategic growth and long-term success. The ideal candidate has 7+ years in accounting leadership, a law firm or professional