Commercial Finance Business Partner

Wednesday 20 Nov 2024

Ref: 1371

I am delighted to have partnered exclusively with an award winning city law firm and assist in the recruitment of a Commercial Finance Business Partner. The role involves proactively collaborating with Heads of Department, Partners, and operations managers to assist in the financial management of their practice, focusing on identifying, analysing, and driving opportunities to maximize profitability and achieve strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities include overseeing annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and long-term financial planning through financial modelling, as well as monitoring performance against budgets and business plans. This includes leading financial review meetings, providing insightful analysis and commentary for the board, and creating valuable management information and presentations for partner away days. The role also provides financial support for new partner business cases, strategic initiatives, and projects requiring commercial finance expertise, including scenario modelling and stress testing. Collaboration with other business areas is key to advancing firm strategy, particularly in areas such as client and matter selection, pricing, fee negotiation, matter management, and client reviews. Additional responsibilities encompass detailed pricing and RFP support, including rolling case estimates and client presentations, along with training and mentoring team members on law firm economics, pricing, and matter management.

The ideal candidate will have solid experience in a commercial finance business-facing or partnering role, preferably with exposure to pricing and a familiarity with diverse pricing arrangements. They should be known for their commercial and pragmatic approach, combined with strong technical proficiency. Analytical and detail-oriented, the candidate must have advanced Excel skills, including excellent financial modelling capabilities and the ability to deconstruct and develop models as needed. Strong communication skills are essential, enabling the clear articulation of financial information to stakeholders at all levels. A collaborative team player who is also comfortable working autonomously, the candidate should demonstrate flexibility, a willingness to go beyond the formal job remit, and the ability to handle a variety of issues as they arise. They should possess a professional demeanour with the capability to influence and challenge effectively in a partnership environment.