Headfarmer
Fractional Controller
Central Phoenix Law Firm client is seeking a Fractional Controller to oversee the firm’s day-to-day accounting operations, ensuring accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and compliance with trust accounting and professional standards.
This role is ideal for an experienced accounting professional who can balance hands‑on transactional work with higher-level financial oversight in a dynamic law firm setting.
Key Responsibilities
Manage all aspects of the general ledger, including journal entries, reconciliations, month‑end and year‑end close processes.
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and collections functions to ensure timely and accurate processing.
Ensure proper revenue recognition, trust accounting (IOLTA) compliance, and adherence to GAAP.
Monitor and maintain internal accounting policies and procedures to safeguard firm assets and improve operational efficiency.
Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
Provide management reports and dashboards highlighting KPIs such as billable hours, realization rates, utilization, and profitability by attorney or practice group.
Support partners and management with data‑driven insights to guide decision‑making.
Maintain schedules and supporting documentation for audits and tax filings.
Cash Flow & Trust Accounting Management
Manage daily cash flow and forecasting to ensure operational liquidity.
Oversee all trust/IOLTA transactions, ensuring compliance with state bar regulations.
Coordinate and reconcile client trust ledgers, retainers, and disbursements.
Process Improvement & Systems
Identify and implement process improvements to streamline billing, collections, and month‑end reporting.
Assist in system upgrades or transitions involving accounting software and legal practice management systems.
Introduce automation and reporting tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Work closely with the Managing Partner, Practice Leaders, and external CPA firms to ensure compliance and timely financial reporting.
Support annual audits, tax preparation, and budgeting processes.
Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations, including bar association trust rules.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a senior accounting or controller role.
Prior experience in a law firm or professional services firm required.
Strong knowledge of legal accounting principles, trust accounting, and financial reporting.
Proficiency in accounting and legal practice management software (e.g., QuickBooks, Clio, or similar).
Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities across clients or engagements.
Key Attributes
Detail‑oriented with strong integrity and accountability.
Hands‑on and proactive problem solver.
Skilled communicator who can translate financial information into practical business guidance.
Adaptable and experienced in working within part‑time, consulting, or fractional structures.
Please contact
Linda.Evans@Headfarmer.com
to learn more!
Seniority level Director
Employment type Part‑time
Job function Accounting/Auditing
Industries Law Practice
Location Phoenix, AZ | $130,000 - $150,000 | 2 weeks ago
#J-18808-Ljbffr
This role is ideal for an experienced accounting professional who can balance hands‑on transactional work with higher-level financial oversight in a dynamic law firm setting.
Key Responsibilities
Manage all aspects of the general ledger, including journal entries, reconciliations, month‑end and year‑end close processes.
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, and collections functions to ensure timely and accurate processing.
Ensure proper revenue recognition, trust accounting (IOLTA) compliance, and adherence to GAAP.
Monitor and maintain internal accounting policies and procedures to safeguard firm assets and improve operational efficiency.
Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
Provide management reports and dashboards highlighting KPIs such as billable hours, realization rates, utilization, and profitability by attorney or practice group.
Support partners and management with data‑driven insights to guide decision‑making.
Maintain schedules and supporting documentation for audits and tax filings.
Cash Flow & Trust Accounting Management
Manage daily cash flow and forecasting to ensure operational liquidity.
Oversee all trust/IOLTA transactions, ensuring compliance with state bar regulations.
Coordinate and reconcile client trust ledgers, retainers, and disbursements.
Process Improvement & Systems
Identify and implement process improvements to streamline billing, collections, and month‑end reporting.
Assist in system upgrades or transitions involving accounting software and legal practice management systems.
Introduce automation and reporting tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Work closely with the Managing Partner, Practice Leaders, and external CPA firms to ensure compliance and timely financial reporting.
Support annual audits, tax preparation, and budgeting processes.
Maintain compliance with local, state, and federal financial regulations, including bar association trust rules.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or MBA preferred.
7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a senior accounting or controller role.
Prior experience in a law firm or professional services firm required.
Strong knowledge of legal accounting principles, trust accounting, and financial reporting.
Proficiency in accounting and legal practice management software (e.g., QuickBooks, Clio, or similar).
Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities across clients or engagements.
Key Attributes
Detail‑oriented with strong integrity and accountability.
Hands‑on and proactive problem solver.
Skilled communicator who can translate financial information into practical business guidance.
Adaptable and experienced in working within part‑time, consulting, or fractional structures.
Please contact
Linda.Evans@Headfarmer.com
to learn more!
Seniority level Director
Employment type Part‑time
Job function Accounting/Auditing
Industries Law Practice
Location Phoenix, AZ | $130,000 - $150,000 | 2 weeks ago
#J-18808-Ljbffr