Director of Finance & Accounting

Who Is Our Client?

Our client is a reputable, well-established, and prominent multidisciplinary Canadian law firm recognized for its strong market presence, collaborative culture, and commitment to delivering high-quality professional services.

What Is Our Client Looking For?

Our client is seeking a hands-on and operationally driven Director of Finance & Accounting to oversee and strengthen the firm’s financial operations and accounting functions. This individual will play a key role in managing day-to-day finance activities, enhancing financial processes and controls, overseeing billing and trust accounting operations, and supporting leadership with accurate reporting and strategic financial insights.

Tasks & Responsibilities

Financial Operations & Reporting

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting and finance operations of the firm.
• Manage month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and deliver timely financial reporting to management.
• Monitor cash flow, financial performance, and operational metrics.
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, and other advisors as required.
• Assist management with budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.

Billing, Receivables & Collections

• Supervise billing, invoicing, and WIP management processes.
• Oversee accounts receivable and collections activities.
• Work collaboratively with lawyers and staff to improve billing discipline and collection timelines.
• Ensure timely and accurate client invoicing and follow-up.

Accounts Payable & Trust Accounting

• Supervise accounts payable processes and vendor management.
• Ensure compliance with all trust accounting requirements and applicable professional regulations.
• Maintain strong internal controls and reconciliation procedures.

Team Leadership & Training

• Supervise and mentor the finance/accounting team.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and workflow prioritization.
• Assist with onboarding and training of new hires on financial procedures and protocols.
• Foster a collaborative, professional, and service-oriented team environment.

Systems, Policies & Process Improvement

• Assess and improve accounting, billing, and operational systems and processes.
• Participate in technology assessments, implementation, deployment initiatives.
• Maintain and update financial policies, procedures, and internal protocols.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and proactively recommend improvements to management.
• Support the continued growth and operational sophistication of the firm.

Skills & Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive experience in finance and accounting, including recent leadership or Controller-level experience.
• Experience working in a professional services firm.
• CPA designation.
• Experience supervising and managing a team of 3 employees, with supervision of larger teams considered an asset.
• Strong understanding of financial operations, including billing, collections, accounts payable & receivable, financial reporting, internal controls, and trust accounting.
• Experience overseeing month-end and year-end close processes, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to operate both strategically and hands-on in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.