Controller - Law Firm

Arlyn Recruiting is working with a well-established, highly regarded mid-sized law firm in downtown Vancouver to recruit an experienced Controller.

Reporting closely to the Director of Finance, the Controller will oversee the firm’s day-to-day accounting operations and financial reporting while providing leadership, guidance, and support to the accounting team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced accounting professional with a background in law firms or professional services who combines strong technical accounting skills with a collaborative, hands-on leadership style.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations and ensure accurate and timely financial processes.
• Provide leadership, supervision, and guidance to the accounting team.
• Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial reporting.
• Prepare and provide meaningful financial analysis to management and other stakeholders.
• Oversee and assist with trust accounting, including compliance with applicable Law Society of British Columbia accounting and trust requirements.
• Support the preparation of the annual Trust Report and coordinate trust examinations and audits.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the firm to provide financial information and support.
• Liaise with external accountants, financial institutions, consultants, vendors, and other service providers.
• Provide leadership around financial systems, process improvements, and reporting.
• Identify opportunities to automate accounting processes and increase operational efficiency.
• Support system enhancements and optimize financial applications and workflows.
• Participate in accounting and finance-related projects.
• Contribute to financial governance, controls, procedures, and policy development.
• Provide backup support across accounting functions when required.
• Support broader operational and financial priorities of the firm and its leadership.

Qualifications & Experience

The successful candidate will ideally bring:

• A recognized professional accounting designation such as CPA, CA, CGA, or CMA.
• Previous accounting or finance experience within a mid-sized law firm or professional services environment.
• Experience with trust accounting procedures and related compliance requirements.
• Strong technical accounting and financial reporting skills.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with Aderant or a comparable legal accounting system would be considered an asset.
• Experience supervising, mentoring, or supporting an accounting team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a busy professional environment.
• A collaborative, team-oriented approach and the ability to establish credibility with stakeholders at all levels.

Compensation & Benefits

The expected salary range is $120,000–$155,000, depending on experience, qualifications, and overall fit.

The firm also provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Group RRSP program.
• Extended health, dental, vision, prescription, paramedical, and life insurance coverage.
• Mental health and wellness supports.
• Health and Wellness Spending Account.
• Pregnancy and parental leave support.
• Generous vacation entitlement plus personal days.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Employee referral incentives.
• Regular social and team-building activities.
• A collegial, collaborative workplace culture.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This position offers an experienced accounting professional the opportunity to take on a senior, hands-on financial leadership role within an established Vancouver law firm. The Controller will have significant involvement in accounting operations, reporting, trust compliance, systems improvement, and team leadership while working closely with the Director of Finance and other key stakeholders.

The role would be particularly attractive to someone who enjoys improving systems and processes while remaining actively involved in the day-to-day accounting function.

About Arlyn Recruiting and How to Apply

Arlyn Recruiting collaborates with leading law firms across Canada to help candidates secure opportunities aligned with their education, skills, and career ambitions. Submit your application through the Arlyn Recruiting website or email your resume directly to info@arlynrecruiting.com.

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