What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at HNE?
Controller
Location: Conshohocken, PA (Hybrid – 3 days onsite)
Overview
Our firm is partnering with a growing law firm to identify a hands-on Controller who will play a critical role in strengthening and scaling the finance function. Reporting to the CFO/Director of Operations, this individual will own core accounting operations and serve as the firm’s lead for all “cash out” activities, while a separate Finance Manager oversees billing and revenue.
This is a high-impact, build-oriented role for someone who enjoys working in the details while also helping implement structure and process in a dynamic environment. The position offers strong visibility with leadership and a clear path to a future CFO role.
Responsibilities
- Lead all core accounting functions, including general ledger, reconciliations, and monthly close
- Prepare and deliver accurate financial reporting and assist with internal analysis
- Oversee cash disbursements, vendor payments, and treasury management
- Manage payroll review (processed externally), including compensation calculations and accuracy checks
- Administer retirement plans (401k/profit-sharing) and support employee-related financial processes
- Own the annual budgeting process and assist with forecasting and FP&A activities
- Partner with external advisors on tax preparation and compliance
- Support system improvements, including transition to ADP, and drive process enhancements
- Work heavily in Excel to manage, analyze, and report financial data
- Operate in a highly hands-on capacity, including transactional accounting work and data management
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance
- Prior law firm experience required
- Public accounting background strongly preferred
- 5 years of progressive accounting experience with full-cycle accounting ownership
- Experience reviewing payroll and supporting financial reporting processes
- Advanced Excel skills and comfort working with data
- Ability to work independently with minimal oversight
- Strong understanding of accounting principles, controls, and reporting
Ideal Candidate
- Brings a hands-on, “roll-up-your-sleeves” mindset and is comfortable executing day-to-day accounting work
- Has experience in legal or professional services environments (insurance defense or similar a plus)
- Thrives in a growing organization and enjoys building processes from the ground up
- Demonstrates strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving ability
- Operates with a high level of ownership and does not require micromanagement
- Interested in long-term growth, including a potential path to CFO within ~2 years
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