Controller

About Clark Wilson LLP

Clark Wilson LLP has been a prominent and innovative law firm in British Columbia for over a century, with more than 200 professionals serving renowned global brands. The firm values a culture grounded in collaboration, inclusivity, and excellence, consistently recognized for professional accomplishments and fostering a workplace that employees look forward to joining daily.

Role Summary

The Firm seeks a Controller to become part of its dynamic Accounting department. Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, the Controller will manage daily accounting functions and financial reporting, providing leadership and support to the Accounting team. This permanent, full-time position offers a collaborative environment focused on dedication and shared success.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the Firm’s daily accounting operations ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Guide and supervise the accounting team to deliver high-quality work.
• Ensure the timely preparation and precise financial reports, offering meaningful insights to various internal stakeholders.
• Administer trust accounting activities and uphold compliance with Law Society of British Columbia regulations, including preparing the annual Trust Report and coordinating trust audits and examinations.
• Collaborate with internal teams to provide relevant financial data.
• Liaise with external entities such as accountants, financial institutions, consultants, and vendors.
• Lead financial systems enhancements, optimize processes, automate accounting functions, and continuously improve workflows and reporting mechanisms.
• Manage finance and accounting-related projects as assigned.
• Support governance and policy initiatives related to finance.
• Offer backup assistance for various accounting duties as required.
• Adapt to Firm priorities by supporting additional responsibilities and providing coverage during absences.

Qualifications and Skills

• Possession of a recognized accounting designation: CPA, CA, CGA, or CMA.
• Professional experience in a mid-sized law firm or similar professional services environment.
• Familiarity with trust accounting procedures specific to professional services.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with Aderant financial software is advantageous.
• Strong communication skills paired with a collaborative, team-first mindset.
• Excellent organizational capabilities with attention to detail, capable of managing multiple priorities and meeting deadlines effectively.
• Ability to establish credibility and foster productive relationships with various stakeholders across the Firm.

Compensation and Benefits

The position offers a salary between $120,000 and $155,000, commensurate with the selected candidate's qualifications and experience. The Firm also provides a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, well-being, and work-life balance:

• Group RRSP retirement savings plan.
• Extensive health coverage including medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs, paramedical services, mental health supports, life insurance, and emergency medical coverage during travel.
• Access to mental health practitioners and wellness programs via the benefits plan and Health and Wellness Spending Account.
• Pregnancy and parental leave top-up benefits up to full salary for a portion of the leave period.
• Flexible Health and Wellness Spending Account options for fitness, wellness supports, and pet care expenses.
• Generous vacation entitlement along with five personal days every year.
• Community involvement and culture initiatives such as weekly social events, team-building activities, employee appreciation week, and opportunities to participate in firm-supported charitable initiatives.
• Opportunities for professional development including training and resources.
• Referral bonuses for successful recommendations of new employees.

Diversity and Inclusion

Clark Wilson LLP is committed to equal opportunity employment and strongly supports diversity, inclusion, and respect which are central to the firm's innovation and culture.