Finance Manager

Harper May is partnering with a prestigious legal firm who is seeking an experienced Finance Manager to oversee its financial operations. With a strong reputation for excellence and a commitment to client service, the firm is now looking for a commercially minded finance professional to support its continued growth and operational efficiency.

Role Overview:
As Finance Manager, you will take ownership of day-to-day financial management, reporting, and compliance activities. Working closely with senior leadership and partners, you will play a key role in providing strategic financial insight, enhancing internal controls, and supporting the firm’s long-term planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the preparation of monthly management accounts, cash flow reporting, and variance analysis

• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes across the practice

• Ensure compliance with regulatory, tax, and professional reporting requirements

• Manage the firm’s working capital cycle, including billing, collections, and supplier payments

• Provide regular financial reporting to partners and support decision-making with data-driven insights

• Maintain robust internal controls and continuously improve financial systems and processes

• Liaise with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners as required

• Manage and develop the finance team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement

• Support strategic projects, including partnership profitability reviews and operational efficiency initiatives

Key Requirements:

• ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified or equivalent

• Previous finance experience in a legal firm or professional services environment is highly desirable

• Strong technical accounting knowledge and commercial awareness

• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills

• Advanced Excel skills and experience with practice management or finance systems (e.g., Elite, Aderant, or similar)

• Hands-on approach with the ability to work strategically and operationally