Role & Responsibilities
Manning Kass, a leading law firm, is seeking an accomplished Controller for immediate hire. The Controller will oversee all firmwide accounting operations and drive strategic financial initiatives. This law firm controller role manages a 30-person department—including accounts payable, billing, cash receipts, and collections—and directly supervises the Billing Manager, Collections Manager, Accounts Payable Supervisor, Accounting Supervisor, and Senior Accountants. This position plays a key part in ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across all financial processes.
The ideal candidate brings an extensive background in financial operations, including retirement plans, actuarial reporting, partner compensation, insurance programs, profitability metrics, and dashboard reporting. Experience within a legal or professional services environment, along with familiarity with Elite 3E or comparable systems, is highly valued.
Leadership
- As the leader for the Finance Department, the Controller will guide accounting operations, provide mentorship to team members, and collaborate closely with the CFO/COO.
- This role requires a proactive mindset, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage complex workflows in a fast-paced environment.
Department & Staff Oversight
- Lead daily operations for AP, payroll, billing, collections, and cash application
- Oversee six direct reports and support the growth and development of the full accounting team
- Conduct regular performance evaluations and implement training plans
- Ensure high-quality service delivery and cross-department collaboration
Financial Reporting & General Ledger Management
- Ensure preparation and reconciliation of monthly bank statements
- Ensure posting of month-end journal entries and reconciliation of general ledger accounts
- Produce preliminary financial statements, including draft Trial Balance and monthly financial packages
- Manage fixed asset records, calculate depreciation, and amortization
Budgeting, Forecasting & Data Analysis
- Partner with leadership on annual budget development and forecasting
- Deliver analytics and reporting to support decision-making
- Monitor financial performance and identify opportunities for operational improvement
Technology, Reporting & Systems Development
- Enhance reporting and collaborate with IT and external consultants
- Support system upgrades and process automation initiatives
- Strengthen internal controls and workflow efficiencies
Audit Coordination & Compliance
- Serve as primary liaison for external auditors during financial and retirement plan audits
- Maintain compliance with accounting standards, internal controls, and regulatory requirements
- Prepare year-end schedules and financial documentation
Qualifications:
- 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a managerial role
- MBA or CPA preferred
- Prior experience in a law firm or professional services environment strongly preferred
- Working knowledge of Elite 3E or Aderant is a plus
- Advanced Excel skills and strong proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Excellent communication, analytical, and organizational abilities
- Demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and lead high-performing teams
About the Company
Manning Kass is a top-tier law firm with a proven track record of successfully defending individuals and businesses of all sizes, from small family-run companies to Fortune 500 corporations. Established in 1994 with just 16 attorneys, Manning Kass was founded with the vision of creating a workplace where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, where collaboration is encouraged over competition, and where all attorneys and staff – regardless of experience or rank – are valued. With an aim to consistently set ourselves apart within the legal landscape, we have grown exponentially over the last 30 years to over 160 attorneys across eight offices nationwide. What has remained consistent is our vision: keeping the family feel of the firm.
Company Offers:
- Salary Range: $150,000 - $175,000. Salary is commensurate with experience.
- Flexible Hybrid Schedule
- Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, HSA/FSA, 401K, and pet insurance coverage.
- A company culture that fosters career growth and opportunity.
