Financial Controller

Financial Controller

Chandlers Ford

Who are DG:

There’s no place like DG!   We are biased, but we do believe that what we have built is the ultimate team culture experience.  Culture… it’s a recent buzz word which means different things to different people.

To share a little bit about our culture, we have 27 behaviours that sit beneath our 3 core values.  Our culture was developed by all team members within DG and we hold ourselves accountable to each other for living and breathing our culture.

We spend a good amount of time with colleagues, so it’s important that we not only have a great team ethos, but a work environment that encourages open and honest conversations which is supported by our coaching culture, lifelong learning and development opportunities.

Did you know that in November 2023, we won the Hampshire Business Award’s category for commitment to education, training and skills?!   Our entry into this was largely based on the internal learning programmes that we offer at varying stages of our people’s careers.  We believe that everyone who comes to us should have opportunity to experience a full career with us, regardless of their role.

What is our vision:

A new Managing Partner was elected in April 2024 and with that comes a new and very exciting vision for DG!     

We want to be the best that we can be and this is achieved not just by having the right support, infrastructure and technology but is achieved by recruiting the right people to join us.  

We have plans to grow the firm both organically and through M&A.   However, in doing so, we will never compromise our culture.  Culture sits at the heart of all business decisions, because DG realises that its biggest asset is its team members and their knowledge/experience!

What is the role doing:

The Financial Controller will oversee the financial operations of the law firm, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with regulatory requirements, and efficient financial management. This role requires strong leadership skills to manage the accounting team and support the firm’s financial health and growth.  Specific responsibilities will include monthly MI, Audits, reporting, compliance, etc. as set out below.

Financial Management and Reporting

• Prepare and present accurate and timely monthly MI, with a focus on operational requirements rather than statutory reporting, providing insight and making recommendations.
• Oversee the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with UK GAAP, SRA Accounts Rules, and other relevant financial regulations.
• Develop and implement robust financial policies, procedures, and controls.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads to set realistic and achievable financial goals.
• Provide financial forecasts and variance analysis to support strategic decision-making.
• Together with department heads, monitor and report on performance against budget, identifying areas for cost savings and efficiency improvements.

Cash Flow Management

• Managing the Lock Up of each department and identify improvements to Implement strategies to optimize working capital.
• Manage the firm's cash flow, ensuring adequate liquidity for operational needs taking known cash outflows into account such as VAT and income tax.
• Oversee the firm's other cash management functions, such as subsidiaries, investments, and loans.

Audit and Compliance

• Coordinate and manage external audits, ensuring timely and accurate completion.
• Maintain compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, including tax filings and financial disclosures.
• Ensure adherence to SRA Accounts Rules and other legal sector-specific financial regulations.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback.
• Identify training needs and opportunities for team members, helping team members to develop.

Financial Systems and Technology

• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial systems and software, including the use of A.I. tools where appropriate.
• Ensure the integrity and security of financial data, liaising with I.T. and including asset management.
• Leverage technology to streamline financial processes and reporting.

Strategic Planning and Support

• Provide financial insights and analysis to support the firm’s strategic initiatives and business plans.
• Work closely with the Finance Director and senior management team to develop long-term financial strategies.
• Participate in strategic projects and initiatives as required.

What are we looking for:

For this role we are looking for a candidate with the following attributes:

Technical Competencies

• In-depth knowledge of UK GAAP, SRA Accounts Rules, and other relevant financial regulations.
• Proficiency in financial management software and advanced Excel skills.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.

Leadership and Management

• Proven experience in leading and developing a finance team.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and data security.
• Adherence to professional standards and regulatory requirements.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills

• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to think strategically and provide actionable insights.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to present financial information clearly and concisely to non-financial stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships both in the accounts team and across the firm.

Adaptability and Continuous Improvement

• Ability to adapt to changing business needs
• Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated with industry changes.
• Proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements.

You’ll be passionate about delivering a high level of service both internally and externally.

Communication and authenticity is of paramount importance, you will be someone who wants to have open and honest conversations.   You will be passionate about supporting others in their learning and development, in addition to your own.  

What will we offer in return:

A competitive salary.  We don’t advertise salary bandings and this is simply for the reason that we do not wish to deter candidates who may not apply otherwise.  We will always be realistic with salary right from the outset and you are free to have an open and honest conversation with our internal recruiter at the very start of the process to ensure that your expectations can be met.

We have a host of benefits to include car parking, health cash back scheme, pension scheme, life assurance, bonus scheme, one to one coaching, referral bonuses, social events, free flu vaccinations and other benefits centred around charity.  

We have a number of groups and committees to get involved with such as charities, EDI, Wellbeing, Green and projects.   We are also a social bunch and love to meet up outside of working for bowling, quizzes and our other firm wide events like our annual AGM and Christmas Party.  

What our team members say:

I like working at DG because it is a firm that is moving with the times. DG is conscious of the need to keep up to date with technology and are always looking for new tech to make our days better and our jobs easier. DG is a progressive firm and this makes it fun to work for.

Interested?

Please contact our Corporate Recruiter, Lou Earp in confidence, on 02390 215224 or email recruitment@duttongregory.co.uk for a discussion around the role!