I am working with a top 100 law firm and assisting in the recruitment of a Financial Controller. This is a leadership role for all the financial operations of the Firm and will lead the firm’s financial management, ensuring strong financial controls and efficient accounting processes as well as supporting the delivery of the Firms Budgets and targets.
The role will play a part in providing analysis, continuous improvement, support to strategic commercial decisions, and will be instrumental in helping to align financial strategy with the Firms ambitions - driving further profitability and growth.
The Financial Controller’s responsibilities include leading the day-to-day finance function, supervising and mentoring a team, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. They manage core financial operations, including general ledger activities, accounting, billing, collections, and reporting, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and deadlines. They oversee cashflow forecasting, budgeting, banking relationships, and approvals for payments. The role also involves managing external audits, coordinating tax submissions, and serving as the Compliance Officer for Finance & Administration (COFA). Additionally, they manage partner financials, including capital loans and profit distributions, and oversee financial systems and processes, driving efficiency and aligning financial strategy with business objectives.
Applicants must be fully qualified in ACCA, ACA, CIMA, or an equivalent qualification, and have experience leading a finance team and managing people. Ideally, they should have worked in a law firm and be familiar with the Solicitors Accounts Rules. The role requires flexibility, as it involves hands-on involvement in finance operations within a small team. Candidates should be confident in senior leadership roles, capable of building trust with the Board, Partners, and the Firm. Experience with 3E or similar accounting software is necessary, along with a focus on quality and continuous improvement in financial operations.