What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accounting Manager position at Hill, Ward & Henderson?
The Accounting Manager is responsible for managing the accounts payable, cash receipts, and trust accounting functions within the firm and will report to the Director of Accounting. The Accounting Manager will also lead the month end closing and reporting process while maintaining general ledger integrity, producing financial reports, and supporting partners and practice leaders with data-driven insights. The ideal candidate will have prior experience in professional services accounting—preferably within a law firm.
Key Responsibilities
- Management of cash receipts, accounts payable, and trust accounting functions. Provide coaching and feedback to relevant areas and document specific objectives and metrics to gauge performance.
- Review and update procedures and internal controls as necessary.
- Engage in regular accounting team strategic planning and work to align team goals with firm objectives.
- Oversee all general ledger activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and month-end closings.
- Review monthly financial statement workpapers, and bank and trust account reconciliations.
- Participate in yearly financial review by external accounting firm.
- Approve vendor invoices, manage payments, and monitor expense allocations.
- Manage firm credit card program.
- Collaborate with IT to troubleshoot and improve financial systems capabilities.
- Supervise, train, and evaluate accounting staff.
- Develop and implement accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Collaborate with IT and operations to improve financial systems and reporting capabilities.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or CMA preferred.
- Experience: Minimum 5–7 years of accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role. Prior law firm or professional services experience strongly preferred.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in legal accounting software, preferably Aderant or Elite.
- Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with data analysis tools.
- Demonstrated ability to be an organized multi-tasker who independently moves between projects as necessary to complete all tasks.
- Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of trust accounting, legal billing practices, and financial compliance requirements.
- Excellent attention to detail, analytical thinking, leadership ability, and communication skills.