What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Controller position at Eastman & Smith Ltd.?
Financial Controller Position
We are looking for an experienced Financial Controller to join our team and play a pivotal role in driving Eastman & Smith's continued growth and success. This position offers the opportunity to lead our financial operations, work directly with firm partners on strategic initiatives, and build robust systems that support our expanding practice. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with strong leadership skills to ensure financial excellence across all areas of our operations.
Core Responsibilities & Leadership Opportunities
• Lead comprehensive financial operations including general ledger management, AP/AR processes, trust account administration, and payroll coordination.
• Build and develop our accounting team through mentorship, training, and performance management while optimizing departmental workflows.
• Coordinate annual audits for the firm's profit-sharing and retirement plans, ensuring full compliance with ERISA and tax regulations.
• Produce comprehensive financial reports and management dashboards that provide actionable insights for firm leadership and practice group heads.
• Drive budgeting and forecasting initiatives, providing financial modeling and analysis that supports strategic decision-making and practice development.
• Maintain the highest standards of regulatory compliance, with particular expertise in attorney trust account regulations and professional responsibility requirements.
• Design and continuously improve internal controls, financial policies, and operational procedures that protect firm assets and ensure operational efficiency.
• Serve as a trusted financial advisor to firm leadership, contributing to strategic planning, growth initiatives, and long-term financial sustainability.
• Manage relationships with external financial professionals including auditors, tax advisors, banking partners, and key vendors.
• Provide daily treasury management including cash flow optimization, debt management, lease administration, and banking relationship oversight.
• Collaborate with firm leadership on annual performance evaluations and compensation analysis for support staff and administrative personnel.
What We're Looking For
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration; Master's degree in Accounting or MBA preferred
• CPA license preferred; additional certifications such as CMA or CIA are valued
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience, with law firm or professional services background strongly preferred
• Proficiency with legal practice management systems (Elite, Aderant, or similar), advanced Excel skills, and experience with cloud-based accounting platforms
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, exceptional attention to detail, and proven project management skills
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to attorneys and non-financial stakeholders
• Demonstrated leadership experience with a track record of successfully managing and developing accounting teams
• Impeccable integrity, strong ethical standards, discretion with confidential information, and adaptability in a dynamic environment
What We Offer
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance with firm contributing significantly to health care premiums
• Robust retirement plan with generous employer contributions
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Professional development support including continuing education