Hybrid Assistant Controller

at CMBG3 Law

• Job title: Assistant Controller
• Job type: Full Time
• Experience level: Mid level, Senior
• Salary: $125,000 - $145,000 per year
• Degree requirement: Bachelor's Degree
• Location requirements: Hybrid, Boston, United States

About the role

• Assistant Controller managing financial operations and compliance at CMBG3 Law, a nationwide law firm. Leading accounting staff and ensuring adherence to GAAP and ethical standards.

Responsibilities

• The Assistant Controller supports the oversight of the firm’s accounting and financial operations and plays a key leadership role in managing the day-to-day activities of the accounting department.
• This position combines technical accounting expertise with hands-on operational management and staff supervision.
• The Assistant Controller ensures compliance with GAAP and Massachusetts-specific ethical and trust accounting requirements while maintaining accurate financial reporting and supporting firm leadership in a litigation-driven defense practice.
• Assist in overseeing all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, billing support, and month-end and year-end close.
• Prepare and review monthly financial statements, reconciliations, supporting schedules, and variance analyses.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct, including all requirements related to client trust accounts and IOLTA management.
• Oversee trust account activity, including proper segregation of client funds and three-way reconciliations in accordance with Massachusetts requirements.
• Support cash flow management, operating accounts, and partner distributions.
• Assist with annual budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners as directed by firm leadership.
• Develop, implement, and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls to promote efficiency and mitigate risk.
• Supervise accounting staff, including billing, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll personnel.
• Review staff work for accuracy and compliance, manage workload distribution, and ensure deadlines are met.
• Provide training, mentoring, and performance feedback to team members.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance operational effectiveness and reporting accuracy.
• Collaborate with attorneys and administrative staff to address billing, collections, and financial inquiries.
• Maintain documentation standards and ensure cross-training within the accounting department to promote continuity of operations.
• Other responsibilities requested by Management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting required, master’s degree preferred.
• Active CPA license in good standing in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive accounting experience within a law firm or professional services environment, with law firm experience required.
• Prior supervisory or team leadership experience required.
• Strong knowledge of law firm accounting practices, including trust accounting and litigation billing structures.
• Familiarity with Massachusetts IOLTA compliance requirements strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in legal accounting and billing systems, with advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Exceptional attention to detail, strong analytical abilities, and sound judgment.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and integrity in handling confidential financial and client information.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with attorneys and senior leadership.

Benefits

• comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance
• life and disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings
• paid time off and holidays