Director of Finance and Accounting

The Director of Finance and Accounting will lead the London Finance team, serve as a key member and advisor to the London Management Committee, and act as the finance business partner to all legal professionals and Business Professionals in the London office. The role holder will be responsible for all local financial matters, including implementing the Firm's Finance processes, standards, and policies as established by the Global Process Owners.

Main responsibilities: Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and develop the London Finance team, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and innovation
• Review current resources in the London Finance function and identify the most efficient approach for delivering Finance support for the office
• Define and communicate the vision, mission, and goals of the Finance function, ensuring alignment with the Firm's values and strategy
• Provide direction, guidance, and support to the Finance team and ensure they have the skills, resources, and tools needed to perform effectively
• Promote a learning and development culture within the Finance team and provide opportunities for training, coaching, and mentoring
• Facilitate the annual performance review and compensation process for the Finance team, and provide input to the regional leadership team

Continuous Improvement and Efficiency

• Drive continuous improvement and efficiency within the Finance function by leveraging best practices and technology solutions
• Review and streamline finance processes and workflows and implement automation and standardization where appropriate
• Identify and implement best practices and benchmarks for the Finance function and ensure alignment and consistency with the global Finance team and regional counterparts
• Support the rollout of new technology solutions and systems that enhance Finance capabilities

Record to Report

• Overview of the monthly management accounts process
• Overview of and direction to the statutory finance team in preparing statutory accounts for the UK entities
• Point of contact for the Firm's auditors
• Assist partners with tax queries, working with external advisors where necessary
• Assist the APS Committee (Additional Profit Share), working with the committee in analysing partner performance
• Involvement in the onboarding of incoming lateral hires as well as the decision making process around internal promotes

Financial Planning, Reporting, and Analysis

• Manage financial planning, reporting, and analysis for the UK entity, ensuring compliance with the Firm's standards and applicable regulations
• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports, highlighting key performance indicators, variances, and trends
• Analyse and monitor the financial performance and profitability of the office, identifying risks and opportunities and recommending improvements
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data and systems and implement internal controls and policies

Strategic Financial Advice and Guidance

• Sit on and advise the London Management Committee and London leadership team, supporting business development and growth initiatives
• Partner with the London Managing Partner and senior leaders to develop and execute the London strategy and business plans
• Assist in developing a greater focus on key metrics including fee earner utilization, realization, and profitability
• Conduct financial modelling and scenario analysis to support decision making and investment proposals
• Evaluate and advise on the financial implications and feasibility of new business opportunities, contracts, and projects

Budgeting, Forecasting, and Performance Management

• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and performance management processes, ensuring alignment with the Firm's objectives and targets
• Coordinate and consolidate the annual budget and quarterly forecasts for the region and communicate them to the regional leadership team
• Establish and monitor key performance metrics and financial targets for the office, and provide regular feedback and coaching to the Finance team and business leaders
• Work with the regional team to manage the Firm's lockup to targeted levels and ensure an efficient cash conversion cycle
• Manage billing and collections to monthly phased targets, collaborating with fee earners, Business Professionals, and clients as appropriate
• Monitor time recording statistics and ensure fee earners record time per internal guidelines
• Review current working practices across regional offices and recommend improvements

COFA

• Act as the Compliance Officer For Finance and Administration (COFA) for the Firm, working closely with the Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP)
• Ensure that the Firm and its managers and employees comply with any obligations imposed upon them under the SRA's Accounts Rules and other financial regulations
• Ensure that appropriate records are maintained and that a prompt report is made to the SRA of any serious breach of the Accounts Rules

Skills and experience

• A bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, and a professional accounting qualification such as ACA or ACCA
• Strong experience in similar Finance management roles within a professional services firm
• Able to influence, interact, and consult with senior leaders regarding finance processes, guidelines, and compliance requirements
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Demonstrated expertise in operational efficiency and financial accounting
• Strong project management and systems thinking skills
• Able to assess risk and take decisive, appropriate action, particularly when managing exception requests
• Able to network and collaborate with teams regionally and globally while acknowledging cultural, social, and academic diversity
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office and other productivity tools
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills

To Apply:

At Baker McKenzie, we welcome direct applications.

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Baker McKenzie is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion for all. Our unique international culture is reflected in the drawing together of a worldwide family of individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds in all of our offices. We encourage the best people - regardless of race, religion or belief if any, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation or age - to fulfill their professional aspirations with us. We are committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all candidates.