Finance Systems Analyst

Watson Farley & Williams; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Watson Farley & Williams is seeking a Finance Systems professional to support, administer and maintain the firm’s finance platforms, including Aderant, Pricewise, Emburse and Laurel. You will ensure data integrity, perform daily checks, and assist with upgrades and integrations in a busy law firm.

This hands-on role offers exposure to multiple systems and ongoing improvements, with collaboration across the Finance Systems team and stakeholders. Flexible working arrangements are available.

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail with data and system processes.
• Good problem-solving skills and interest in systems/technology.
• Ability to manage and prioritise routine tasks effectively.
• Aptitude for business process improvement.
• Basic understanding of finance systems or business processes desirable.
• Experience with Excel/SQL or reporting platforms beneficial.
• Positive, flexible approach and willingness to learn.
• Good communication with stakeholders at all levels.
• Organised, reliable and able to work independently and in a team.
• Proactive in knowledge sharing and team development.

Responsibilities

• Provide first-line support for Finance Systems users and resolve issues.
• Carry out routine system administration and maintenance activities.
• Assist in data setup and ongoing management within systems (pricing, expenses, time recording).
• Support implementation and rollout of new systems like Pricewise, Emburse, Laurel, and e-invoicing tools.
• Assist the Finance Systems Manager with testing, upgrades and process improvements.
• Monitor system performance and escalate issues as needed.
• Contribute to documentation and knowledge sharing within the team.
• Support continuous improvement of system processes and controls.
• Undertake other tasks as required by the Finance Systems Manager.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem solving

Task prioritisation

Business process improvement

Communication skills

Team player

Willingness to learn

Tools

Excel

SQL

Job description

Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is a sector-focused international law firm with extensive expertise and industry insight across its core sectors of energy, infrastructure and transport. Through its network of 19 offices, the firm advises clients on complex, high-value transactions and disputes - matters requiring precise legal execution and a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.

The firm's success is driven by its people. It fosters a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can grow, share ideas and make an impact. Guided by its values -We are experts, We are united and We care - the firm delivers exceptional service through strong relationships and teamwork. The firm is committed to clear career paths, championing diversity and investing in its people so they can thrive.

Role overview

The Finance Systems team plays a key role in supporting the firm’s systems landscape and is well regarded across WFW for successfully delivering new systems and improvement projects. This role will primarily focus on the day-to-day support, administration, and maintenance of finance systems, ensuring they operate effectively and consistently across the business. The team is currently supporting a growing number of platforms, including Aderant, Pricewise (Pricing), Emburse (Expenses), Laurel (Time Recording), and an upcoming e-invoicing solution, alongside ongoing integrations between systems and reporting.

The role is an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to a wide range of systems and to get involved in new implementations and continuous improvement projects, while also supporting business-as-usual operations.

Key objectives include:

• Supporting the smooth running and maintenance of all finance systems
• Taking ownership of routine administrative tasks and controls
• Assisting with system implementations, upgrades, and integrations
• Supporting knowledge sharing within the team as systems evolve

Key Focus Areas

The role will be "hands on" and focus on (but not limited to):

• Day-to-day system administration and user support across finance applications
• Maintenance of core data structures (e.g. phase and task setup, validation, and updates)
• Performing daily checks, reconciliations, and issue resolution
• Supporting system integrations and data flows between platforms
• Assisting with configuration and testing for new systems and enhancements
• Supporting the adoption of new tools and processes across the firm
• Ensuring strong data quality and process adherence across systems

Key activities/responsibilities

• Provide first-line support for Finance Systems users, resolving issues and queries
• Carry out routine system administration and maintenance activities
• Assist in the setup and ongoing management of data within systems (e.g. pricing structures, expenses, time recording)
• Support the implementation and rollout of new systems such as Pricewise, Emburse, Laurel, and e-invoicing tools
• Assist the Finance Systems Manager with system testing, upgrades, and process improvements
• Monitor system performance and elevate issues where required
• Contribute to documentation and knowledge sharing within the team
• Support continuous improvement of system processes and controls
• Undertake any other tasks as required by the Finance Systems Manager

Skills and experience - desired

• Strong attention to detail, particularly around data and system processes
• Good problem-solving skills with an interest in systems and technology
• Ability to manage and prioritise routine tasks effectively
• Aptitude for business process improvement
• Basic understanding of finance systems or business processes (desirable, not essential)
• Exposure to tools such as Excel, SQL, or reporting platforms is beneficial but not required
• Positive, flexible approach with a willingness to learn
• Good communication skills and ability to work with stakeholders at all levels
• Organised, reliable, and able to work both independently and as part of a team
• Proactive in sharing knowledge and supporting team development

Personal skills/attributes

• An experienced and knowledgeable law firm finance employee with a good grasp of the technical side of the systems they currently use.
• A motivated individual willing to learn from an experienced team
• Already in a systems role, or experienced biller/e-biller

We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.

Additional information

The Firm promotes a culture of agility and flexibility and is fully supportive of flexible working arrangements where these can be accommodated.

Equal opportunities

Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm's strategy and underpin its efforts to attract and retain top talent. All employment decisions are made objectively, based on merit and ability and the firm is committed to inclusive and barrier-free recruitment. As a Disability Confident employer, WFW welcomes adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions and participates in the Disability Confident interview scheme. If you would like to apply through this scheme or require adjustments during any stage of the process, please contact [e-mail].