Director of Finance

Overview

As Director of Finance, you will oversee European financial operations across London, Brussels, and Frankfurt to ensure accurate accounting, treasury management, and revenue control. You will lead local teams, coordinate with head office, and drive compliant, efficient processes aligned with firm-wide controls. You’ll steer planning, forecasting, reporting, and strategic initiatives that support cross-border growth and resource optimization. This is a hands-on role with a strong emphasis on leadership, governance, and continuous improvement in a professional-services environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day finance operations and staff across London, Brussels, and Frankfurt offices
• Oversee European general ledger and balance sheet accounts; ensure reconciliations with head office and resolve reconciling items
• Coordinate European revenue, expense, and capital planning/forecasting with local leaders
• Monthly reporting of European financial results; research and reconcile variances
• Oversee local treasury and cash flow management
• Prepare annual partnership tax returns; oversee locally prepared VAT returns
• Act as COFA with client money procedures and SAR audit
• Manage working capital with Revenue Manager for European billing and revenue control
• Input to pricing and matter planning decisions
• Ensure compliance with local and firmwide procedures; develop methodologies and automate where applicable
• Implement/roll-out of financial software in European offices
• Liaise with outside tax accountants and Firmwide Director of Taxation for cross-border returns
• Reporting for European Senior Management and Business Services
• Support European Senior Management in strategic reviews and planning
• Support special projects or initiatives directed by firm management and partners

Key requirements

• Demonstrable accounting and financial function experience, including budgeting, financial statement prep, AP, billing/collections, and financial analysis
• Prior management experience within a law firm or professional services firm
• Knowledge of partnership tax returns advantageous
• Excellent communication, analytical, organizational, and project management skills
• Ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines, and make high-level decisions with integrity and autonomy

• Leadership and team management
• Discretion and independent judgment
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Elite 3E or similar ERP system experience
• Financial planning and analysis
• Treasury and cash management

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