Finance Manager

Robbins Schwartz; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Robbins Schwartz is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to lead financial operations and reporting. This role includes overseeing accounting, managing billing staff, and ensuring compliance across all operational areas.

Ideal candidates will hold a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance, have over 4 years in finance roles, preferably in a law firm, and possess strong leadership skills. You will guide financial strategies that drive the firm's profitability and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, preferably in a law firm.
• Strong knowledge of billing practices and financial reporting.
• Excellent leadership and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting and billing staff and processes.
• Prepare and present regular operational and financial reports.
• Manage vendor relationships and negotiate contracts.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Financial reporting

Accounting practices

Billing practices

Strategic financial analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPA preferred

Tools

Legal billing software

Financial management software

Job description

Robbins Schwartz is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Finance Manager to join our team. This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the financial health and operational functions of the firm. Reporting to the Managing Partner and Equity Partners, the Finance Manager will manage the firm's accounting and billing operations, provide strategic financial reporting, and ensure efficient day-to-day operations across departments. This is a fantastic opportunity for a finance professional looking to take ownership of a broad and impactful role within a dynamic and growing law firm.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting and billing staff, processes, and workflows to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance
• Approve and post monthly transactions and generate income statements
• Generate financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting on a monthly and annual basis
• Prepare and distribute daily cash updates and process payroll funding
• Implement cost-effective strategies and financial controls to maximize firm profitability
• Approve check requests, process reimbursements, and manage attorney allowances and firm sponsorships
• Generate client and attorney profitability analyses to support firm decision-making
• Audit books and oversee annual firm tax filings including corporate, cash balance, and 401(k) filings
• Manage the firm's Line of Credit and coordinate bi-annual renewals
• Implement and manage the firm's time entry policy

Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Prepare and present regular operational and financial reports to equity partners
• Develop monthly agenda items and updates to keep equity partners informed on firm issues and priorities
• Analyze year-end results and prepare the annual recap meeting each January
• Analyze historical fee data to generate revenue forecasts
• Prepare and communicate monthly fee, hours, and client updates to attorneys
• Support annual strategic planning meetings and materials
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators to evaluate operational and financial performance

Operations & Risk Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations to ensure smooth functioning across departments
• Develop and implement operational policies and procedures for efficiency and compliance
• Manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and oversee procurement processes
• Manage tenant relations and oversee facilities across all office locations
• Oversee annual corporate filings and renewal of the firm's Supreme Court status
• Manage all firm cell phone accounts, IT subscriptions, and platforms
• Oversee insurance policies and ensure proper coverage is maintained
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance across all operational areas
• Implement rate increases internally and externally as needed
• Review and edit non-billable matter prebills to ensure accuracy

Leadership & Team Management

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and guidance to direct reports and operational staff
• Foster a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement
• Support the professional development and growth of team members
• Supervise the Marketing Specialists with direct oversight of the marketing budget, ensuring spend aligns with firm revenue goals and approved allocations
• Review and approve marketing expenditures including events, sponsorships, client entertainment, and advertising, evaluating ROI and cost-effectiveness
• Provide financial analysis and reporting on marketing initiatives to the Managing Partner, tracking spend against budget and measuring business development outcomes

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA preferred
• 4+ years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, preferably in a law firm or professional services environment
• Strong knowledge of billing practices, financial reporting, and partner compensation structures
• Experience with legal billing and practice management software preferred
• Proven ability to translate financial data into strategic recommendations for firm leadership
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment