We're seeking a proactive, decisive Controller to lead all financial operations for the firm. This isn't a back-office role; you'll be a key member of our management team, responsible for building the financial infrastructure that supports our growth. You'll have direct access to firm leadership and real influence over how we operate. The right person sees around corners, identifies problems before they become crises, and isn't afraid to make decisions and own the results. Please note, it would be required to work from our Newport Beach office at least 3 days per week. As we scale, we're looking for a Controller who doesn't just manage numbers but drives financial strategy and owns outcomes. Responsibilities: Financial Leadership • Own all accounting and finance operations, including budgeting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and attorney compensation • Produce accurate, timely financial statements and reporting that drive decision-making • Use that financial reporting to develop strategies that support the firm's growth objectives • Lead budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management Trust Accounting & Compliance • Manage client trust accounts (IOLTA) with meticulous attention to State Bar compliance requirements • Ensure all trust accounting procedures meet the California Rules of Professional Conduct • Maintain proper segregation and documentation of client funds • Coordinate with external accountants as needed Billing & Collections • Oversee client billing operations, including matter-level accounting and work-in-progress tracking • Manage retainer replenishment and client payment processes to ensure trust coverage on work in progress • Monitor accounts receivable aging and develop strategies to improve collections • Analyze realization rates and identify opportunities for improvement Systems & Process Improvement • Evaluate and enhance financial systems and workflows for efficiency and scalability • Maintain documentation of financial procedures and internal controls • Serve as primary administrator for accounting and practice management software integrations Qualifications: Required • Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field • 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity • Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls • Proficiency with accounting software and advanced Excel skills • Excellent communication skills Preferred • CPA license • Experience in a law firm or professional services environment • Familiarity with legal billing software (Caret, Clio, PracticePanther, or similar) • Experience with California IOLTA trust accounting requirements Who You Are • You take initiative and don't wait to be told what to do • You make decisions confidently and stand behind them • You're detail-oriented but never lose sight of the bigger picture • You build systems that work, not just spreadsheets that track • You communicate directly and don't bury problems Compensation: $100,000 - $130,000 yearly
• Financial Leadership • Own all accounting and finance operations, including budgeting, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and attorney compensation • Produce accurate, timely financial statements and reporting that drive decision-making • Use that financial reporting to develop strategies that support the firm's growth objectives • Lead budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow managementTrust Accounting & Compliance • Manage client trust accounts (IOLTA) with meticulous attention to State Bar compliance requirements • Ensure all trust accounting procedures meet the California Rules of Professional Conduct • Maintain proper segregation and documentation of client funds • Coordinate with external accountants as neededBilling & Collections • Oversee client billing operations, including matter-level accounting and work-in-progress tracking • Manage retainer replenishment and client payment processes to ensure trust coverage on work in progress • Monitor accounts receivable aging and develop strategies to improve collections • Analyze realization rates and identify opportunities for improvementSystems & Process Improvement • Evaluate and enhance financial systems and workflows for efficiency and scalability • Maintain documentation of financial procedures and internal controls • Serve as primary administrator for accounting and practice management software integrations