Job Overview – Financial Controller (Legal):
Compensation: $145,000 – $165,000/year + bonus
Location: Charlotte, NC
Schedule: Monday to Friday (In-Office)
Step into a key leadership role with our client as a Financial Controller (Legal) in Charlotte, NC, overseeing financial operations, compliance, and partner reporting for a mid-size law firm. This in-office role is ideal for a senior accounting professional with legal industry experience and deep expertise in billing systems, payroll, and internal controls. You’ll partner with firm leadership to guide financial strategy, ensure compliance, and improve operational performance.
Responsibilities as the Financial Controller:
- Financial Oversight: Lead budgeting, revenue tracking, partner distributions, and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
- Reporting & Analysis: Deliver financial reports and insights to the partner group, highlighting trends and recommending improvements.
- Internal Controls: Establish and maintain financial policies, internal controls, and reporting procedures to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Process & Compliance: Improve accounting operations while ensuring adherence to tax laws and bar association reporting requirements.
- Team & Vendor Management: Supervise two direct reports and serve as the primary liaison for external accountants and auditors.
- Strategic Support: Partner with firm leadership to support operational strategy, manage payroll, and achieve financial goals.
Qualifications for the Financial Controller:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
- Licensure: CPA strongly preferred.
- Experience: 7+ years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management, with prior exposure to mid-size law firms highly preferred.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficient in GAAP, Excel, and legal billing systems such as Elite 3E, with a strong aptitude for technology-driven solutions, vendor management, and process automation.
- Skills & Attributes: Proven leadership, communication, and analytical abilities, with a proactive mindset and ability to manage shifting priorities in a client-driven environment.
- Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with financial compliance reporting requirements for state bar associations and legal industry accounting standards.
Application Notice: Qualified candidates will be contacted within 2 business days of application. If an applicant does not meet the above criteria, Atlantic Group will keep your resume on file for future opportunities and may contact you for further discussion.