Director of Accounting (Law Firm Experience Required)

Description

 Position Summary

The Director of Accounting is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing all financial operations of the firm, including accounting, reporting, treasury, and compliance. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, this position works closely with firm leadership, including the Managing Partner and Finance Committee. The Director of Accounting is responsible for driving financial strategy, ensuring operational efficiency, and supporting executive leadership with data-driven insights. This role requires prior law firm experience and a strong understanding of law firm accounting best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and trust accounting 
• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting 
• Prepare and deliver financial statements, management reports, and analysis for firm leadership
• Support firm leadership with budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning initiatives 
• Oversee partner compensation processes, including distributions, draws, and capital account management 
• Ensure full compliance with GAAP, internal controls, and legal industry regulations, including trust (IOLTA) accounting requirements 
• Monitor cash flow, profitability, and key financial metrics to support operational and strategic decisions 
• Collaborate closely with firm leadership on financial strategy, reporting enhancements, and process improvements 
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners 
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small accounting team, fostering accountability and continuous improvement 

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA strongly preferred 
• Minimum of 3 years of progressive accounting experience within a law firm environment 
• Demonstrated experience supporting firm leadership and presenting financial information to firm leadership and committees 
• Strong knowledge of cash accounting, legal billing cycles, and trust accounting compliance 
• Experience with law firm financial systems such as Aderant, Elite, or similar platforms 
• Solid understanding of GAAP and financial reporting requirements 
• Proven ability to operate both strategically and hands-on in a mid-sized firm environment 

Key Competencies

• Strong business partnership skills and executive presence 
• Ability to translate financial data into meaningful insights for non-financial leaders 
• High level of discretion, judgment, and professionalism 
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and analytical capabilities 
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a deadline-driven environment