Description
This position, under the direction of the Director of Administration, is responsible for the efficient administration of all accounting functions for the office. Major areas of responsibility include accounts payable; billing; trust and checking account maintenance, including wire transfers; petty cash; and accounting records management. This position will assume the role of accounting liaison to the Chicago Office Accounting Department, with a direct reporting relationship to the local office DOA and dotted line reporting relationship to Chicago Office Accounting. Job responsibilities will vary based on the needs and the size of the local office.
Essential Skills
· Must have excellent follow-through skills, strong attention to detail, and problem-solving ability. Must have ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
· Must have strong interpersonal communication and team working skills.
· Must be able to effectively analyze reports and other accounting data and interpret results accurately.
· Must have the ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of timely customer service.
· General computer experience, including strong working knowledge of accounts payable and billing software and spreadsheets. CMS Open experience preferred.
· General ledger and accounting experience preferred. Excellent Math aptitude and understanding of general accounting principles.
Accounts Payable
· Process invoices for payment in a timely manner. Receive invoices, obtain approval for payment, and review for accuracy. Properly code and process using CMS Open.
· Research past due statements, answer vendor inquiries, and troubleshoot inconsistencies.
· Coordinate workflow and training when assistance is required with accounts payable processing.
· Maintain files of vendor invoices and payments.
Billing
· Performs all Billing Related Tasks including editing and preparing invoices, manages cash receipts applications, responds to all billing related issues; and acts as CMS trainer (office specific).
Trust Account
· Maintain accurate records of all wire transfers, deposits and withdrawals from trust account.
· Initiate and track outgoing wires. Research incoming wires if necessary.
· Reconcile trust account at client/matter level; reconcile account to bank statement monthly.
· Serves as firm liaison with banking representatives to resolve issues.
Checking Account
· Maintain appropriate balance in checking account; initiate wire transfer for replenishment when needed.
· Process checks efficiently with appropriate documentation.
· Serves as firm liaison with banking representatives and Chicago Accounting to resolve issues.
Petty Cash Account
· Administer all aspects of petty cash management, including travel advances, filing fees, minor expense reimbursements, etc…
· Responsible for assuring there is appropriate expense documentation per firm policy.
· Enter disbursement information into CMS Open in a timely manner.
· Balance and reconcile petty cash as needed to keep adequate cash on hand.
Accounting Records Management
· Maintain appropriate accounting files in a timely manner following firm protocol.
· Responsible for identifying and preparing files for off-site storage and maintaining inventory of records stored off-site.
Budgeting (Office Specific)
· Assists Director of Administration with preparation of expense budget forecast. Works with Director of Administration to research and analyze budget variances monthly.
Staff Supervision (Office Specific)
· In certain large office settings throughout the Firm, this individual will be responsible for supervising A/P, Billing, and/or Clerical staff, depending on the structure within that office.
· Handles personnel matters including performance reviews and salary administration for direct reports.
Special Projects (Office Specific)
· Maintain and update accounting procedures. Train new attorneys and staff on accounting policies and procedures.
· Coordinate other back office tasks such as; staff absences, reports creation and distributions, parking, personal exchange accounts, purchasing, and possible collections.
Any other special assignments as assigned by the Director of Administration.
Requirements
Must have 3-5 years general accounting experience or equivalent law firm accounting operations experience.
Bachelors degree in accounting or finance preferred. Comparable accounts payable and billing experience may be substituted for bachelor’s degree. Professional services experience needed.
Keyboard and calculator skills needed.
Some light lifting needed.
We offer competitive compensation & comprehensive benefits, including medical/dental insurance, 401(k) savings plan, back-up child care and elder care, generous vacation & personal/sick plan, and opportunities for professional development & growth. If qualified, please apply directly in the employment section http://www.mayerbrown.com/
