Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the Controller, this role supervises the accounting team and provides oversight to the Firm’s accounting practices, budget management, financial and operational reporting, and audit requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting and Financial Reporting:
· Lead and work with accounting staff to develop and maintain processes and procedures to maximize efficiencies
· Assist and ensure year end processes are completed in a timely and accurate fashion.
· Oversee and support the accounting team with client trust payments/deposits
· Supervise workflow and effectiveness of accounting staff members, providing coaching and mentoring to develop their technical and professional capabilities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence
· Full cycle payroll including bi-weekly processing and payroll accounting that meets regulatory and audit requirements.
Regulatory/Governance
· Banking - liaise with banks regarding documentation requirements, signing officers and requirements to comply with banking regulations;
· Maintain oversight of partnership agreements, year end reports, payment processes, and requested Trust information in accordance with the CDIC requirements.
· Support audit requirements and associated information gathering and implement /maintain control function requirements.
· Ensure full compliance with Law Society of Alberta trust accounting, maintain detailed trust account records, resolve any irregularities, and maintain comprehensive audit
· Monthly trust account reconciliations (bank statements, trust ledger, and client sub- ledgers), annual Law Society filings
· Billing, Collections & Revenue Management; accurate and timely billing, collection procedures.
Competencies and Behaviours
· Demonstrates a professional demeanor, high ethical standards, respect and commitment to service excellence
· Knowledge of business accounting reports, accounting concepts and techniques and the ability to synchronize accounting principles and practices with the Firm’s goals and objectives combined with understanding of key performance indicators.
· Technical skills to evaluate, investigate and interpret information related to budgets, financial administration and processes.
· Working knowledge of computer systems and other operating information systems as used in a business or law firm environment
· Excellent interpersonal and communication (written and verbal) skills
· Highly organized with the ability to multi-task and meet tight deadlines
· Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
· Ability to maintain confidentiality of pertinent data
· Ability to work independently as well as cohesively with lawyers and other employees as part of a team
Education & Experience
· Degree or equivalent experience level in a related field i.e. accounting/finance, commerce, business
· CPA designation an asset
· 8-10 years of experience in a law or Professional services firm or corporate environment in Accounting & Administration, with increasing responsibility
· Proven success in managing an accounting team, experience working with senior decision makers
Work Location: In person
