The role:
We have an exciting opportunity for a Client Rates Manager to join our Finance department.
Responsibility for creating, updating, improvement and overall quality management of client and matter rates held within the firm’s finance system 3E. This role requires a high level of accuracy whilst ensuring an efficient and effective delivery of data quality and leading change in approaches to new systems and processes. You will provide pro-active feedback, updates, and the escalation of any issues on a regular basis to the Revenue Manager and Chief Financial Officer. You will become one of the main points of contact for our clients, Billing and eBilling teams globally, and client and matter partners within the firm. You will advise the business on acknowledged best practice to adhere to clients outside counsel rate and billing guidelines.
What will you do:
Use technical expertise and build effective relationships to ensure compliance of commercial terms and outside counsel guidelines:
* Translation of new and updated client commercial rate agreements into the 3E rate structure. Implementation, updating and maintenance of 3E rate structure processes to ensure accurate billing according to the commercial terms and outside counsel guidelines.
* Manage 3E rate processes; source data and upload to 3E.
* Collaborate with and advise clients and third-party vendors to ensure system configurations are optimised to support the most efficient process for all parties to improve the firm's lockup.
* Collaborate and update the Ebilling team on new and updated rate agreements to allow them to maintain accurate third-party vendor data to support their e-billing submissions. Assist on rate setups when onboarding new Ebilling clients.
* Advise Finance Systems on future strategy of timekeeper rate management.
Provide a quality service and ensuring that the team processes and objectives align with business needs:
* Provide regular feedback to the Senior Finance Managers.
* Adhere to agreed best practices, policies and processes whilst adapting to local requirements, as necessary.
* Consistently share knowledge and skills with colleagues within the global Billing and Ebilling teams to deliver accurate Client rates.
Apply commercial logic to advise the business on best practice to obtain the maximum financial benefit for the firm:
* Regular interaction with the Global Finance teams.
* Maintain constructive working relationships with the Client and Matter Partners within the firm and key personnel within external organisations to ensure that focus is maintained on accurate application of Client agreed rates.
* Maintain a high level of professionalism when dealing with contacts within external organisations and to help in resolving issues to achieve the best outcome for the firm.
Rate Management:
* Set up, maintain, and update client-specific rates in the firm’s financial systems Elite 3E.
* Ensure compliance with agreed engagement terms and pricing arrangements.
* Monitor rate changes and apply discounts or adjustments as per client agreements.
Client Relationship Support:
* Act as a point of contact for rate-related queries from partners, finance teams, and clients.
* Collaborate with Client Managers and Billing teams to resolve discrepancies promptly.
Governance & Compliance:
* Ensure adherence to firm policies and regulatory requirements in rate management.
* Maintain accurate documentation for audits and internal reviews.
Process Improvement:
* Review and streamline rate setup processes for efficiency.
* Support system enhancements and participate in testing new functionalities.
What we are looking for:
* Extensive experience and strong understanding of Elite 3E rate processes.
* Experience of delivering process change.
* Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data quality.
* Experience of managing and motivating teams.
* Comfortable with working under pressure and to tight deadlines.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Solution orientated.
* Commercially driven.
Career Level:
The career level assigned to this role is level 3. The career level framework provides a formal structure for the business services functions at the firm. The framework, which ranges from level 1 to level 7, clearly defines the responsibilities, skills and competencies required at each level.
Here at Simmons & Simmons:
At Simmons, we are proud of our collaborative, open and non-hierarchical culture, where everyone is treated with respect and dignity and the wellbeing of our people is paramount. Our dynamic minds work as one integrated team, partnering with leading organisations on inspirational and thought-provoking projects that matter. From day one, irrespective of job title, qualification or background, everyone’s voice is heard, and you are encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will have a platform to excel, exceed your career ambitions, and achieve things you never thought possible.
Some key information:
* We offer a competitive package including bonuses dependant on role/level, private medical insurance and pension contribution.
* Our global skills academy provides our people, regardless of their role and location, with excellent learning opportunities (including live workshops, podcasts, short videos and practical learning experiences).
* We have adopted a hybrid working approach with a requirement for a minimum of three days in the office with flexibility dependant on role/team/client demands.
* We are proud to rank as a Times Top 50 Employer for Gender Equality, a Stonewall Top Global Employer, and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
* We have a range of social and sports committees, summer and winter parties and monthly get togethers.
* We have a range of diversity networks to connect people and celebrate our differences which is integral to our inclusive culture.
* All UK offices have their own artwork collections – including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin pieces in the London office. We have a long-standing history in supporting the art community especially up-and-coming artists.
* We have recently introduced a Strategic Advisory Council which is a mix of associates and business services who will propose strategic initiatives that align with our firm's mission and support the delivery of our business plan, shaping the future of our next-generation law firm.
* Our in-house generative AI tool, Percy, won the ‘Innovation in Automation and AI Tools’ category at the 2024 FT Innovative Lawyers Europe Awards. This achievement highlights our commitment to technological innovation and client service.
* We have been commended in The Times Best Law Firms 2026 across three categories: construction, employment, and intellectual property. Our profile is highly positive, highlighting our sector specialisms and notable case and transactional work.
Equal opportunities:
We are committed to fostering equality, diversity and inclusion within our firm and to ensuring equal employment opportunities. We believe that this commitment creates a vibrant and rewarding work environment. We are therefore committed to:
* Upholding equal opportunities, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, sex, gender reassignment, gender identity, marital status, or pregnancy, including maternity and paternity. This commitment extends to addressing any instances of perceived or associative discrimination and harassment. We also ensure fair treatment during recruitment and selection processes for those who are serving or have served in the armed forces, along with their families.
* Accommodating requests for flexible working arrangements whenever possible. We encourage you to discuss your needs with us if this is something you require.
* Making our roles accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know so we can meet your needs.
* We offer a range of employee networks to support our colleagues. More information about these networks can be found in the D&I Information booklet that candidates are sent when invited to interview.
We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every single requirement. We are looking for individuals who are passionate and eager to learn and grow with us. Your unique experiences and perspectives could be a great addition to our team.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
If you’re interested in finding out more about this position, please contact the Recruitment Team. To apply for the role, click on the link at the bottom of the page or visit our career page for more details.