At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial reporting, audits, and compliance in a dynamic law firm environment.
- Company: Join a top-tier Corporate Law firm based in Belfast, with support from Dublin.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, professional development, and a collaborative team culture.
- Why this job: Perfect for ambitious individuals looking to grow their finance skills in a reputable firm.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with at least 2 years of post-qualification experience.
- Other info: Experience in professional services is preferred; strong teamwork and time management skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
The Role
We are currently recruiting for a Finance Manager in our Belfast Finance Department. This role is an excellent opportunity for a bright and ambitious individual, who wants the opportunity to develop their skills in a top tier Corporate Law firm. This role is supported by the Dublin Finance Department.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Financial Reporting and Regulatory Compliance
- Preparation and analysis of quarterly management accounts
- Preparation of annual budgets and performance tracking
- Monthly cashflow preparation
- Assisting with completion of audits including annual external audit, Law Society SRA audit, and other audits as they arise
- Supporting compliance with statutory reporting requirements
- Supporting compliance with tax regulations and filing of tax returns, including VAT and Income Tax
- Ensuring compliance with Law Society Solicitors Account Regulations including client money movements
- Review of bank reconciliations
- Liaising with relationship managers in the bank
- Processing creditor payment runs
Other
- Supporting month end billing and the wider finance team where necessary
- Preparation and review of audit confirmation letters
- Ad hoc queries received from Partners and Solicitors
Requirements
Skills and Experience required:
- Qualified Accountant, minimum 2 years post qualification experience
- Previous experience in a finance department in professional services would be preferable
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to work well under pressure and as part of a team
- Effective time management skills
- Previous experience in a busy finance department highly desirable
The Firm
A&L Goodbody (ALG) is a leading Irish law firm with five international offices in Dublin, Belfast, London, New York and San Francisco. There are currently 120 partners and over 900 employees. The strong international and domestic business community in Ireland forms a valuable part of the ALG client base. ALG is incredibly proud to be recognised as the leading Irish law firm in the Chambers and Partners Europe 2024 Guide with the highest number of Band 1 practice area rankings. ALG is also ranked as a \βtop tier\β law firm in The Legal 500 EMEA Guide 2024 and the IFLR1000 Guide 2024. The firm is consistently ranked number one in the Irish market and on a European level.
A sample of other recent notable awards include:
- Awarded the prestigious Company of the Year award at the National Diversity & Inclusion Awards 2025 hosted by the Irish Centre for Diversity.
- Recognised by Mergermarket as the #1 M&A legal advisor in Ireland by deal volume for 2024
- Winner of the Best Client Service Award by the Lawyer European Awards
- Future of Legal Services Innovation Award winners 2024
- Awarded the Investors in Diversity Silver Mark in 2024 by the Irish Centre for Diversity
- Most Popular Graduate Recruiter in Law 2024 by GradIreland (for 13 consecutive years)
- Law firm of the year β Republic of Ireland 2023 at The Lawyer European Awards
- Irish Law Firm of the Year 2023 at the Chambers Europe Awards
- One of the top 50 most innovative law firms in Europe 2023 by the Financial Times
- Best client support 2023 by the Managing Partners Forum
- Business Working Responsibly Mark 2023
ALG has a reputation for leading the way in continuously developing its service to clients and internally to its business. This is delivered through the use of new processes, ways of working, innovative use of technology and marketing-leading business service teams.
A&L Goodbody offers you the opportunity to advance your career and develop your expertise. We provide a supportive environment which encourages our people to achieve their ambitions.
ALG is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons including those who wish to be considered for part-time working or job sharing arrangements.
Finance Manager employer: A&L Goodbody Llp
Contact Detail:
A&L Goodbody Llp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager
β¨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the legal and finance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who work in corporate law firms. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and potentially get a referral.
β¨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial regulations and compliance requirements relevant to the legal sector. Being knowledgeable about these can set you apart during interviews and show your commitment to the role.
β¨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential interview questions by practising your responses to scenarios related to financial reporting and audits. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers effectively.
β¨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership skills by discussing any previous experience managing teams or projects. Highlight how youβve successfully led initiatives in a finance department, as this is crucial for the Finance Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Manager
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance, particularly in professional services. Emphasise your qualifications and any specific achievements that align with the duties listed in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your experience with financial reporting, compliance, and team leadership, and explain how these skills make you a great fit for the Finance Manager position.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on key skills such as time management, interpersonal skills, and your ability to work under pressure. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed similar responsibilities in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a finance role.
How to prepare for a job interview at A&L Goodbody Llp
β¨Showcase Your Qualifications
As a qualified accountant with at least two years of post-qualification experience, make sure to highlight your relevant qualifications and experiences. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your previous roles that demonstrate your financial reporting and regulatory compliance skills.
β¨Demonstrate Team Leadership Skills
Since the role involves managing the Accounts Payable and Client Accounting team, be ready to share your experiences in leading teams. Discuss how you motivate team members, handle conflicts, and ensure that everyone meets deadlines, especially under pressure.
β¨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial regulations, tax compliance, and audit processes. Brush up on your knowledge of VAT, Income Tax, and Solicitors Account Regulations. Being able to confidently answer these questions will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
β¨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the firm's finance department and its future goals. This not only shows your interest in the position but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career aspirations.