Assistant Controller

Brief Description

The Controller or Assistant to the CFO/Controller is a key member of the finance leadership team, responsible for overseeing the company's daily accounting operations and providing high-level financial support to the CFO. The role requires a hands-on approach to accounting functions while also contributing to strategic financial planning, analysis, and risk management. The successful candidate will ensure the integrity of financial reporting, maintain robust internal controls, and support the overall financial health of the organization.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

Financial reporting and analysis

• Manage the end-to-end financial reporting process, including timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual closing procedures.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, in compliance with GAAP.
• Assist the CFO with financial analysis, including variance analysis and performance metrics, to identify trends and assess financial health.

Budgeting and forecasting

• Collaborate with department heads and the CFO on the annual budget and forecasting processes.
• Monitor budget performance, report on variances, and provide insights for corrective action.
• Develop and maintain financial forecasting models to support long-term financial planning.

Operational accounting

• Oversee and manage the general accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and the general ledger.
• Ensure all accounting practices, record-keeping, and internal controls are compliant with legal guidelines and company policies.
• Administer and manage cash flow, including monitoring balances, preparing wire transfers, and tracking investments.
• Coordinate and prepare for internal and external financial audits.

Leadership and strategic support

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to the accounting staff.
• Serve as a key business partner to the CFO, assisting with special projects, presentations, and financial strategy development.
• Research complex accounting issues to ensure proper accounting treatment and compliance.
• Communicate with various stakeholders, including executives, stakeholders, and external auditors.

Qualifications

Education and experience

• Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance
• Five or more years of progressively responsible experience in accounting and finance, with leadership experience.
• Experience in the law firm or similar service industry is a plus.

Skills And Abilities

• Strong knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial software systems (e.g., QuickBooks On-Line).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a finance team.