Job Description

The successful individual will be responsible for the internal accounting systems, processes, controls and timely and accurate reporting of company financial data.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure financial processes, systems and strong controls are operated effectively to manage the financial risk of the firm and related entities. Establish new controls as required to identify discrepancies and prevent errors
• Ensure financial records are maintained and are reconciled to client ledger
• Overseeing/reviewing and ensuring reconciliations are completed for the sales ledger, purchase ledger and ensure all general ledger entries are correctly reflected in the finance system and monthly reporting
• Preparation of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports including year-end financial accounts, monthly management information, balance sheet and cash flow forecasts. Examine financial reports and data closely, working with budget owners to identify trends, and explain variances between actual and budget figures and variances from agreed Key Performance Indicators (KPls) and challenge where necessary to aid in decision-making.
• Develop and maintain a financial model for budgets and forecasts, establishing annual budgets based on key business drivers for each branch and business preparing "bottom-up" budgets in line with local business plans which meets strategic targets and objectives
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders including HMRC, Tax advisors, banks, partners and senior management.
• Monitor and manage cash flow by tracking transactions and regularly reviewing internal reports
• Preparation/review of bank payments
• Liaise with accounting and tax advisors, providing them with year-end accounts information for the firm and other related entities
• Handling VAT, Payroll, PAYE and tax duties, including VAT return preparation and partnership tax adjustments
• Project management of process changes and implementations

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Member of a professional accountancy body (ICAS, ACCA, or equivalent qualification). Experience in operation of financial controls, month end and balance sheet accounting. Experience of working in a controlled and deadline-driven environment. High level of commercial awareness with an understanding and appreciation of business practices, approaches, organization and culture. Experience in building budget and forecast models. Experience in operation of Payroll PAYE and VAT calculations and reporting Project management. Excellent data analytical skills and advanced level of Excel experience. Experience and ability to work under own initiative and keep management and stakeholders engaged and updated with progress. Experience as an accountant within the legal sector. Financial Controls. Payroll. VAT. Working knowledge of professional services’ firm including regulatory rules regarding management of client funds. Proactive, self-starter with proven ability to problem solve. Methodical, analytical and decisive with good attention to detail. Excellent communicator. Collaborative. Tenacious.