Head of Accounts - Large Solicitor Firm

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Prominent, and general practicing firm of solicitors based in North Kent and with links to the area dating back to the early nineteenth century, now has an exciting opportunity for a Head of Accounts to face some 21st Century challenges.

They are looking for a highly organised and proactive Chartered Accountant to head up our Accounts team as part of the Firm’s ongoing expansion and future growth plans.

This is a key and crucial role ensuring the smooth operation of the Firm’s financial accounts and entails a high level of responsibility.

Day to day responsibilities include:-

– Operation and reconciliation of the Firm’s client and office bank accounts, monitoring and posting receipts to the Firm’s CMS, making/authorising payments, identifying and effecting transfers, managing remittance advices and liaising with the Firm’s bankers where necessary

– Preparing forecasts and financial statements, business plans, commentaries and budgets for management and Partners

– Analysing the client and nominal ledgers to assist with the production of annual and monthly management reports/accounts

– Managing the Firm’s cash flow, billing, expenditure, credit and investments

– Assessing fee targets, liaising with the solicitors re their performance and ensuring various target criteria are met

– Monthly payroll for staff

– VAT / Tax Returns

– Dealing with, and advising on tax issues, ensuring compliance with tax legislation

– Reviewing and preparing trust accounts alongside tax returns for individuals, companies, LLPs and trusts

– Monitoring compliance with SRA Accounts Rules, including identifying, reporting and remedying any breaches and recommending action to improve compliance

– Liaising with auditors, regularly undertaking audits, involving the examination of the organisation’s accounts, analysing risk, inspecting the organisation’s current practices, investigating any financial irregularities and recommending improvements

– Reviewing, implementing and adapting new and existing financial systems and controls

– Managing Accounts based colleagues

– Keeping up to date with technical developments and changes in legislation

NB:

Longer hours and/or work at the weekends might be expected at peak times, such as when meeting strict client deadlines, at month end or at the end of the financial year.

The role is predominantly based in Maidstone however some travel will be required to and from Gravesend, therefore a clean driving licence and own transport is essential.

Applicants:

Successful candidates will report to the Firm’s Equity Partners and must have the following:

– Be fully ACA or ACCA qualified

– Experience in using Sage 50

– Experience in preparing staff payroll

– A good understanding of UK financial reporting requirements

– Full knowledge of SRA Accounts Rules and their practical application

– VAT knowledge

– I.T proficiency in all Microsoft Office systems, especially Excel

– General all round business interest and knowledge

– Experience of working directly with solicitors, and the proven ability to build effective relationships with senior members in a law firm

– Strong analytical, problem-solving and accuracy skills

– Tact and discretion

– Integrity and trust

– Excellent numeracy skills

– Organisational and time management skills

– Strong written and verbal communication skills

– Leadership/management qualities and effective team-working skills

For further information on this role, then please do not hesitate to contact Robin for a discrete first conversation.