Law Firm Controller

About the Firm: Founded in 1932, Glasser and Glasser, P.L.C. is a highly respected law firm located in the heart of Norfolk, Virginia. The firm has been named a “Best Law Firm” by US News and Best Lawyers and has a reputation for delivering outstanding service with the highest levels of integrity and professionalism. We are committed to providing excellent legal services and counsel to our clients.

Job Summary: Glasser and Glasser is seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Controller. The Controller will report directly to the firm’s equity partners and will be responsible for the accurate and timely preparation of all accounting and financial operations of the firm. This hands-on, on-site role requires exceptional organizational skills and the ability to manage an internal accounting team. You will manage day-to-day financial operations, including trust accounting, billing, payroll processing, and financial reporting, ensuring compliance with legal industry regulations and firm standards. Your ultimate goal is to optimize firm efficiency, control costs, and maximize profitability so attorneys can focus on client representation.

Key Responsibilities:

· Oversee and manage the operations of the firm’s accounting department (including general accounting and collections accounting), which include accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliations, and payroll.

· Prepare, review, and analyze monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial statements (balance sheets, income statements, etc.) to present to firm partners.

· Ensure compliance with Virginia State Bar regulations regarding reconciling client trust accounts (IOLTA) and maintaining accurate general ledgers.

· Manage day-to-day financial operations including cash management, billing and collections, vendor relations, payroll, audits, and the firm’s retirement plan.

· Serve as the primary liaison with external CPAs/auditors for year-end reviews, corporate controls, and tax preparation.

· Maintain the general ledger and all accounting records.

· Supervise, train, and mentor the accounting department team, delegating tasks effectively and ensuring high performance.

· Assess current practices and policies, identifying areas to automate and improve departmental efficiency.

· Ensure the effectiveness of internal financial controls as well as compliance with requirements set by the firm’s clients, financial institutions, and regulatory authorities.

· Produce annual budgets and forecasts (profit studies by department / client).

· Collaborate closely with firm partners to translate financial data into actionable insights for strategic decision-making.

Qualifications & Requirements:

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.

· Minimum of 5 years of proven accounting and financial management experience, ideally within a law firm or professional services environment.

· Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel. Experience with Juris, CLS, and/or Practice Manager is a plus.

· Excellent organizational and time management skills.

· Meticulous attention to detail.

· Ability to anticipate issues and proactively provide recommendations to management.

· Excellent problem-solving attitude and skills

· Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), trust accounting rules, and financial reporting.

· High ethical standards, outstanding analytical abilities, and the capacity to handle sensitive financial information with strict confidentiality.

· Excellent management and supervisory skills.