Klinedinst is seeking a San Diego-based Chief Financial Officer to lead all aspects of the Firm’s financial operations and functions. The candidate must be a positive, proactive, “team player” who will embrace the modernization of the organization as it continues to expand.

Klinedinst is a business-focused law firm based in California, with an expanding presence across the Western U.S. Klinedinst has approximately 90 lawyers and has physical offices in San Diego, Irvine, Los Angeles, Sacramento, Seattle, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.

Klinedinst is a diverse and growing organization, which has been in business for more than 42 years. Klinedinst PC offers an entrepreneurial culture, made up of creative problem-solvers who exhibit top-notch critical thinking, exceptional skills, and an unwavering desire to provide extraordinary service to our clients. We believe our success stems from engaging professionals who come from a wide spectrum of backgrounds, experiences, and opinions.

POSITION SUMMARY

The candidate will oversee the firm’s Accounting Department and accounting functions, and actively participate in the firm’s strategic direction and financial well-being. The position is a senior administrative role that will report to the Chief Executive Officer, while also working closely with the Board of Directors, Office Managing Shareholders, General Counsel, Chief Information Officer and Chief Operations Officer.
 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounting Oversight

· Provide leadership and oversight for all accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, payroll, trust accounting, and general ledger management.

· Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with firm policies, GAAP, and legal industry standards.

· Oversee cash management, collections, and trust fund administration in compliance with ethical obligations.

· Supervise and mentor the accounting team to ensure effective daily operations and resolution of accounting issues.

· Foster a culture of accountability, stellar service, and continuous improvement across the finance team.

Management Reporting & Analysis

· Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports.

· Deliver profitability analyses by practice group, matter, and attorney.

· Collaborate with practice group leaders to evaluate pricing, billing models and margin optimization strategies.

· Conduct variance analyses with clear insights and recommendations for firm leadership.

· Develop financial dashboards and KPIs for ongoing performance monitoring.

· Participate in BOD meetings and provide regular board reporting on financial and accounting issues, as well as key input on strategic decisions.
 

Strategic Planning & Budgeting

· Lead the firm’s annual budgeting and forecasting process in collaboration with practice group leaders and firm management.

· Provide scenario modeling and financial analysis to evaluate firm initiatives.

· Partner with leadership on long-term financial strategies, including compensation models and capital investments.

· Provide M&A support, due diligence, and post-integration financial leadership where applicable.
 

Tax & Compliance

· Oversee monthly, quarterly, and yearly reporting to equity partners.

· Preparation and coordination of federal, state, and local tax filings.

· Ensure compliance with GAAP, partnership accounting standards, and trust accounting regulations.

· Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions.

· Implement and maintain strong internal controls to protect firm assets.

Leadership & Collaboration

· Positively lead and mentor the finance and accounting teams, fostering professional growth, accountability, and continuous improvement.

· Collaborate with the firm’s C-Suite and Executive Committee on financial strategy and operational planning.

· Represent the finance function in firm-wide leadership meetings and provide financial insights that guide decision-making.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA, MBA, or equivalent advanced credential strongly preferred.

· Minimum of 10 years of progressive financial management experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership capacity.

· Prior experience in a legal or professional services environment preferred but will consider exceptional candidates outside this setting.

· Demonstrated expertise in accounting operations (A/P, A/R, billing, trust accounting, payroll, general ledger).

· Strong knowledge of GAAP, partnership accounting, and tax compliance.

· Proficiency in Aderant, Iridium, or comparable legal accounting systems.

· Proven ability to produce actionable management reporting and strategic financial analysis.

· Exceptional leadership, analytical, and communication skills.
 

Compensation & Benefits

The firm offers a competitive compensation package, including salary commensurate with experience, comprehensive health benefits, 401(k) with firm contribution, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. The salary range for this position is between $175,000 to $230,000 depending upon skill set, experience, and qualifications. Potential for merit-based annual bonuses based upon individual and firm financial performance.