European Financial Controller

Our client is a leading, international law firm, offering advising individuals and their enterprises across industry areas such as technology, FMCG, life sciences and charitable organisations.

They seek a European Financial controller to play a key role in the Finance management team. The role is responsible for supporting the Firm's senior management team and overseeing the financial accounting function. The role will have a focus on improving profitability through better processes and information to aid decision making. You will support the formulation of business plans, improve cost management and and provide financial education and support across the business.

The European Financial Controller will oversee the preparation of the Firm's accounts, the role has responsibility for the Firm's European offices with regular liaison with the APAC and US finance teams. With a team of 25 to manage the role requires an experienced candidate who can manage and motivate as well as provide excellent technical expertise.

Responsibilities will include:

• Day-to-day managerial responsibility of the London finance team including their recruitment, training, development, goal-setting and performance measurement.
• Support the finance functions in overseas offices in Europe, liaising as appropriate with the APAC and US finance teams.
• Administration and control of the global banking facilities (revolving credit facilities, overseas office funding requirements and the preparation and submission to the bank of monthly management information and quarterly covenant information) and cash flow management, including forecasts and monthly FX Swaps.
• Assist in the Firm’s commercial decision-making, strategy and business planning.
• Ensure all regulatory and compliance requirements are met in line with the Solicitors Accounts Rules, including review of static client balances.
• Assist in the preparation of the annual budget and of forecasts during the financial year.
• Review of Europe bank reconciliations.
• Liaise closely with the Tax team to deliver partner accounting and tax filings.
• Oversee the preparation of quarterly commission calculations in respect of consultancy agreements.
• Oversee production of the Annual Report and Financial Statements for all relevant entities.
• Oversee the SAR and LLP audits.
• Assist in the management and development of current systems used to support the accounting needs and financial reporting function on a day-to-day basis.
• Oversee the preparation and reconciliation of VAT returns.
• Develop content and deliver Finance training to fee earners and partners in conjunction with an external trainer.
• Review of the EU monthly management profit and loss account and variance analysis.

Successful candidates will be professionally qualified (ACA / ACCA) with relevant practical experience. Experience from within professional services would be beneficial, previously working in an international team would be highly advantageous. The role requires strong up to date technical knowledge including UK GAAP and SAR. This is a pivotal management position and requires an individual with strong, proven leadership skills and the ability to motivate a team.

The role offers a competitive salary and extensive benefits package and hybrid working from the central London office.