Finance Manager

Career Legal; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Finance Manager to oversee financial operations in London. The role involves managing accounts, delivering monthly financial reports, and leading budgeting processes. Candidates should possess ACA qualifications, significant experience in finance and accounting, and strong communication skills. This position offers a chance to make a significant impact within the firm.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years' experience in finance and accounting, ideally in a law firm or professional services.
• Previous team management or leadership experience is required.
• Familiarity with UK partnership tax is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day finance operations including general ledger and accounts payable.
• Deliver accurate monthly financial results and variance analysis.
• Lead cost budgeting and revenue forecasting for the UK office.

Skills

Strong technical accounting knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Ability to work under pressure

Education

ACA or equivalent qualification

Degree in accounting, finance, economics, or related discipline

Tools

Elite 3E

Power BI

Excel

Job description

Overview

Our client advises the world's leading corporations, investment funds and financial institutions on their most critical legal needs and business opportunities. The Firm's approximately 500 lawyers are based in North America and Europe. They are now looking to recruit a Finance Manager. As Finance Manager, you will oversee all aspects of the UK office's financial operations, including accounting, treasury, compliance, and reporting. You will play a critical role in ensuring the integrity of financial processes, supporting strategic planning, and maintaining compliance with UK regulatory requirements. Working closely with colleagues in London, Frankfurt, and the US head office, this role offers visibility across the firm and the opportunity to make a significant impact.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day finance operations in London, including general ledger, accounts payable, and treasury (including client money).
• Deliver accurate monthly financial results, balance sheet reconciliations, and variance analysis.
• Lead cost budgeting and revenue forecasting for the UK office. Support revenue budgeting.
• Oversee cash flow management, VAT returns, and the annual partnership tax return.
• Ensure compliance with Solicitors' Accounts Rules and firmwide internal controls.
• Support the implementation and improvement of financial systems and processes.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop the local finance team.
• Partner with external tax advisors and the global tax team.
• Provide ad hoc reporting and financial insights to management.

The Candidate

• ACA (or equivalent) qualified accountant with a degree in accounting, finance, economics, or related discipline.
• At least 5 years' experience in finance and accounting, ideally gained within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge and familiarity with UK partnership tax advantageous.
• Previous experience managing or leading a team.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Integrity, attention to detail, methodical, and the ability to work effectively under pressure.
• Proficiency in Elite 3E or similar financial management systems is desirable. Strong Excel skills critical. Power BI or similar platforms advantageous.

Important Notice

It is Career Legal's policy, as a matter of courtesy, to respond to all applications within three working days. However, because of the volume of applications, we are sometimes unable to respond to individual candidates. If we have not contacted you within three working days your application has been unsuccessful, and your details have not been retained. Please apply for any other position that you may see in the future. Thank you.

Career Legal is a Recruitment Agency and is advertising this permanent vacancy on behalf of one of its clients.

Daniel Cumberworth
Associate Director