Assistant Controller
Newport Beach, CA
Client Opportunities – Controller /
Regular Full-time /
On-site
GHJ Search and Staffing is working closely with a leading personal injury law firm headquartered in Newport Beach. The team is seeking an Assistant Financial Controller with a strong accounting background—preferably with experience in trust accounting and the legal or professional services space—to join their growing team and oversee client trust transactions, disbursements, and reporting functions.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what the role offers:
- Key ownership of trust accounting and financial reporting
- High visibility working closely with the Controller and CFO
- Opportunity to mentor staff and help improve processes
- Competitive comp + bonus, 401(k), and great in-office culture
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily trust accounting operations, staff, and workflows
- Review and manage client trust transactions and disbursements
- Ensure compliance with State Bar rules and internal policies
- Conduct monthly reconciliations and support audits
- Review settlement statements and coordinate with legal teams
- Train and mentor trust accounting staff
- Support financial statement preparation in accordance with GAAP
- Deliver KPI and financial reports to leadership
- Manage AP/AR processes, reconciliations, and journal entries
- Ensure accuracy in financial reporting and internal controls
- Lead ad hoc projects and budgeting efforts
- Handle payroll processing and assist with commissions
- Manage wire transfers, ACH distributions, and Salesforce reporting
Trust Accounting (60%)
Financial Reporting & Analysis (25%)
Other (15%)
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 10+ years of accounting experience; legal or professional services background preferred
- CPA (active/inactive) strongly preferred
- 2+ years in a supervisory role
- Strong knowledge of trust accounting practices
- Skilled in QuickBooks, NetSuite, and advanced Excel
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid time off and holidays
- Bonus eligibility
- Professional development opportunities
- Onsite perks and team events
$150,000 - $175,000 a year
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