Main Function of Job
The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing the financial operations of the whole firm. Working through the internal Finance team, you will secure robust financial control, provide accurate reporting and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, helping to provide financial guidance to senior management with timely, high‑quality insights to drive performance, profitability and sustainable growth.
Financial Control and Reporting
* Review the monthly management accounts and prepare reports for partner meetings and the management committee.
* Manage and oversee the month‑end closing process, ensuring all financial transactions are accurately recorded and reported in a timely manner, streamlining and reducing the month‑end close process.
* Ensure all reporting from practice management software (CCH) is accurate and reconciled.
* Maintain partner capital accounts, completing all necessary accounting and calculations on time and accurately.
* Prepare and present accurate and timely financial statements, coordinate and manage the annual audit process, ensuring compliance with all relevant accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
Budgeting, Forecasting and Performance
* Manage the annual budget process and oversee subsequent re‑forecasting as appropriate.
* Conduct financial analysis and provide insights to support business decision‑making, including regular flash reporting and KPIs for partners.
* Ensure charge‑out rates are appropriately set and communicated across the firm.
Cashflow and Working Capital
* Monitor cash flow and manage working capital requirements.
* Oversee the credit control function, ensuring timely collection of outstanding balances, accurate debtor reporting and effective processes to minimise overdue accounts.
* Maintain and manage our banking relationship with HSBC to ensure smooth and efficient banking operations.
Compliance and Governance
* Oversee client accounts in line with the ICAEW client money regulations, ensuring all client funds are handled and recorded accurately.
* Oversee the preparation and review of VAT returns, ensuring they are accurately compiled and submitted in compliance with all relevant regulations.
* Work closely with HR to ensure payroll is processed accurately and on time, including managing employee benefits and deductions and meeting all payroll‑related reporting and compliance requirements.
* Support tax planning and compliance for the group.
Leadership and Team Management
* Manage and oversee the daily operations of the finance department.
* Lead, mentor and develop the internal finance team on an ongoing basis.
* Allocate work effectively and ensure high standards of accuracy and timeliness.
* Support succession planning and continuous improvement within the finance function.
Systems and Process Improvement
* Develop and implement financial policies, procedures and controls.
* Work with the project team to ensure CCH is fit for purpose.
Strategic Support
* Collaborate with senior management to develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives.
* Act as a trusted financial advisor to partners and senior leadership, supporting the work of the COO.
* Provide financial input into business planning and decision‑making with key stakeholders across the business and support strategic initiatives the COO is responsible for.
Key Systems Used
* Practice Management System (CCH)
* SharePoint
* Staffology Payroll
* Microsoft Outlook
* Microsoft Office Suite
Qualifications Required
* ACA, ACCA or CIMA qualified accountant with a minimum of 10 years of experience in finance and accounting, and at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Experience Required
* Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting and regulatory requirements.
* Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
* Proven ability to manage and develop a team.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* Advanced proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite.
* Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced and dynamic environment.
* High level of integrity and ethical standards.
* Demonstrated ability to be proactive and continuously seek out opportunities for change and improvement.
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