£35k p/a
Interviews week commencing 08/06/26
Job Purpose
To oversee and manage the financial operations of a UK law firm, ensuring compliance with Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Accounts Rules, HMRC regulations, and statutory accounting requirements. The Senior Accountant will be responsible for financial reporting, legal billing, accounts receivable and recoverable, budgeting, compliance, and supporting the wider finance and operational functions of the firm.
Key Responsibilities
* Prepare monthly management accounts, statutory accounts, and financial reports in line with UK accounting standards and legal sector requirements.
* Ensure compliance with SRA Accounts Rules, VAT regulations, HMRC requirements, anti-money laundering (AML) obligations, and internal financial controls.
* Manage office and client account transactions, reconciliations, and postings in accordance with legal accounting procedures.
* Oversee accounts payable processes including supplier payments, expenses, disbursements, and payment runs.
* Manage accounts receivable, credit control, aged debtors, and recoverable disbursements to improve cash flow and minimise outstanding debt.
* Support legal billing cycles, monitor work in progress (WIP), and assist with write-offs, transfers, and matter balance reviews.
* Conduct budgeting, forecasting, profitability analysis, and cash flow reporting to support strategic decision-making.
* Liaise with auditors, tax advisors, banks, and regulatory bodies as required.
* Provide guidance and support to junior finance staff and assist fee earners with finance-related queries.
* Assist with system improvements, process enhancements, reporting development, and finance projects.
* Undertake ad hoc finance, compliance, and operational duties as required within the business.
Skills and Experience
* Proven accounting experience within a UK law firm or professional services environment.
* Strong understanding of SRA Accounts Rules and legal finance compliance requirements.
* Experience managing accounts payable, accounts receivable, recoverable, legal billing, and reconciliations.
* Experience using accounting and legal practice management systems such as Sage, Xero, QuickBooks, Elite, Aderant, or similar platforms.
* Strong knowledge of VAT, payroll, and UK statutory reporting requirements.
* Excellent organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities effectively.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Previous experience supervising or mentoring junior finance staff is desirable.
Qualifications
* ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent recognised professional accounting qualification.
* Alternatively, significant relevant experience within a legal finance environment may be considered.
* Knowledge of legal cashiering and SRA compliance requirements is highly desirable.
Personal Attributes
* High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
* Professional, discreet, and able to handle confidential information.
* Proactive and solutions-focused approach.
* Strong organisational and time management skills.
* Ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced legal environment.
Interested parties should contact Mark Smith on (phone number removed) or send their CV's to Mark at (url removed)
Salary description
£35000.00 - £35000.00 per year