Strategic Working Capital Controller – London Finance

A&O Shearman; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Pension scheme

Private medical insurance

Mental health resources

Onsite gym

Job summary

A&O Shearman, based in its London office, seeks a Working Capital Controller to manage the full working capital cycle across practice areas. You will ensure accurate billing, timely work-in-progress and receivables data, and deliver financial insights for partner-facing meetings.

In this hybrid role, you will support matter profitability reviews, prepare reports, and collaborate with pricing, credit control, and revenue teams.

Qualifications

• Previous experience within a finance function is essential; working capital experience would be advantageous.
• Strong analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively under pressure.
• Proactive, organised, and committed to delivering high-quality service.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.
• Experience with legal practice management systems would be beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Support partners with matter profitability forecasting, budgeting, and pricing analysis.
• Monitor client revenue, WIP, debtors, and overall working capital performance.
• Identify risks and opportunities, providing regular reporting and financial insights.
• Assist with matter profitability reviews and financial presentations.
• Manage billing activities, including bill preparation, e-billing, write-offs, and billing adjustments.
• Work closely with partners and finance teams to improve cash collection and reduce aged debt.
• Monitor lock-up days, debtor balances, and client exposures, escalating issues where required.
• Ensure accurate financial setup and maintenance of matters and billing profiles.
• Build strong relationships with partners and become a trusted finance contact.
• Collaborate with pricing, credit control, revenue, and e-billing teams to deliver efficient financial support.
• Provide financial guidance for client and internal meetings.
• Support the adoption of pricing tools and best practices across the business.
• Produce financial reports, client analyses, and ad hoc management information.
• Contribute to finance improvement initiatives and special projects.
• Support client reporting requirements, including accruals and discount calculations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication

Multitasking

Team collaboration

Attention to detail

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Legal practice management systems

Job description

A&O Shearman, based in its London office, seeks a Working Capital Controller to manage the full working capital cycle across practice areas. You will ensure accurate billing, timely work-in-progress and receivables data, and deliver financial insights for partner-facing meetings.

In this hybrid role, you will support matter profitability reviews, prepare reports, and collaborate with pricing, credit control, and revenue teams.