Accounting Manager

Position Summary

The Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing the firm’s accounting department and ensuring efficient, accurate, and compliant financial operations. This role manages accounting staff, including the supervision of the accounts payable and receivable process, reconciles trust and operating accounts, coordinates audits and tax preparation, oversees payroll administration, and provides reporting and analysis to firm leadership. The Accounting Manager also supports the CAO in all financial related aspects of the firm.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Direct and manage the daily operations of the accounting department.
• Supervise and train accounting staff; delegate tasks and conduct performance evaluations.
• Maintain effective communication with attorneys, staff, and clients while observing confidentiality of all firm and client matters.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for financial operations within the firm.

Accounting & Reporting

• Manage all phases of the general ledger, financial reporting, and account reconciliations.
• Oversee the integrity of daily, monthly, and annual accounting processes and reporting cycles.
• Review and approve monthly reconciliations, journal entries, and internal reports.
• Oversee monthly and annual closing processes and produce accurate financial reports in a timely manner.
• Monitor cash flow, prepare financial statements, and manage the firm’s financial reporting system.
• Collaborate with the CAO on budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
• Oversee and coordinate external audits and tax preparations, serving as the primary liaison with auditors and tax professionals.

Payroll Administration

• Oversee the firm’s payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely payroll administration in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
• Serve as backup to process payroll directly when necessary.
• Ensure payroll records are properly maintained and reconciled.

Accounts Payable & Receivable

• Oversee invoice processing, including proper account coding and timely payments.
• Supervise daily AP/AR operations and ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Banking & Compliance

• Monthly reconciliation of the firm’s trust and operating accounts in compliance with firm policy and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and industry-specific financial regulations.
• Serve as a member of the firm’s Investment Committee and participate in the function of the firm’s retirement program.
• Coordinate with external tax professionals, auditors, and vendors as needed.

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Develop, document, and continuously improve internal accounting processes and controls.
• Maintain internal controls and recommend improvements to accounting policies and procedures.
• Provide accounting support to the CAO and other firm leaders.
• Utilize firm accounting software effectively.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field required.
• CPA certification or advanced degree preferred.

Experience

• At least 8 years of progressive accounting experience, including 4-5 years as an accounting manager or controller.
• Law firm or professional services experience strongly preferred.

Skills

• Strong knowledge of day-to-day accounting operations and process management.
• In-depth knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and strong working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Experience with professional time and billing/accounting systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Detail-oriented with a high degree of accuracy.