Strategic Firm Controller: GAAP & Trust Accounting

Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k contribution

Paid time off

Job summary

Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC in Buffalo, NY is seeking a seasoned Controller to oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, and trust/compliance for a full-service law firm. This hands-on, non-supervisory role requires GAAP expertise, strong Excel skills, and collaboration with the Director of Finance to deliver accurate data and timely insights.

5+ years of progressive accounting experience in professional services is preferred; CPA/CMA and familiarity with law-firm billing software

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience with full-cycle accounting, including close processes and reconciliations.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting systems.
• Demonstrated experience with data analysis and financial reporting.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with attorneys and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Own and perform daily, weekly, and monthly accounting activities, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and general ledger functions.
• Oversee and support the full billing cycle, including pre-bill review, edits, and final invoice processing.
• Coordinate with attorneys and billing staff to ensure timely and accurate billing.
• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial transactions to ensure accuracy, completeness, and proper classification.
• Perform monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, ensuring adherence to accounting policies and procedures.
• Perform and oversee all bank and cash reconciliations across firm accounts.
• Monitor cash flow and support short-term cash forecasting.
• Manage trust accounting operations, including reconciliations and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., IOLTA/trust rules).
• Monitor trust account activity and ensure strict adherence to fiduciary responsibilities.
• Support internal and external audits related to trust and operating accounts.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.
• Respond to client and partner financial requests, including matter-level and timekeeper performance reporting.
• Develop, maintain, and enhance reporting tools, dashboards, and KPIs to the Firm.
• Analyze financial trends, variances, and key performance indicators to provide actionable insights to leadership.
• Perform detailed Work-in-Process (WIP) analysis, including aging, write-ups/write-downs, and billing velocity.
• Monitor and analyze accounts receivable (AR), including aging, collections trends, and realization rates.
• Supporting billing and collections strategies, including client payment behavior analysis and follow-up processes.
• Conduct financial and operational data analysis to support strategic decision-making.
• Assist in identifying and implementing opportunities to streamline accounting processes and improve controls.
• Participate in accounting system enhancements, upgrades, and automation initiatives.
• Document procedures and support best practices across the accounting function.
• Partner closely with the Director of Finance to support firm-wide financial strategy.
• Collaborate with attorneys, practice groups, and administrative teams on financial matters.
• Serve as a key accounting resource across the firm, providing guidance and resolving complex issues.
• Assist with special projects, and other finance-related initiatives as needed.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

Excel proficiency

Financial reporting

Data analysis

Communication with leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field

Tools

Aderant

Elite

Job description

Rupp Pfalzgraf LLC in Buffalo, NY is seeking a seasoned Controller to oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, and trust/compliance for a full-service law firm. This hands-on, non-supervisory role requires GAAP expertise, strong Excel skills, and collaboration with the Director of Finance to deliver accurate data and timely insights.

5+ years of progressive accounting experience in professional services is preferred; CPA/CMA and familiarity with law-firm billing software