At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team managing partner finance and accounting for a global law firm.
- Company: Join Bird & Bird, a leading international law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a role that combines leadership and financial expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Partnership Accountant and strong team management skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth in a diverse and inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The opportunity: We are seeking an experienced Partnership Accountant to join the firm's Partner Financial Affairs team based in London. You will head up the Partnership Accounts subteam and play a pivotal role in all key aspects of Partners' finance and accounting.
The Team: The Partner Financial Affairs team comprises 5 Tax Advisers and 5 Partnership Accountants. Together, we handle Tax and Partnership Accounting matters for the firm and all Partners globally. The Partner Financial Affairs team sits within the wider London Accounts department of c. 70 individuals. You will report to the Head of Partner Financial Affairs.
What You'll Do:
- Lead the Partnership Accounts subteam comprised of 5 individuals.
- Be responsible for the team's output across all workstreams, including drawings and distributions, capital contributions, cashflows and annual statements, annual profit allocations, joiners/leavers and secondees.
- Monitor team capacity and control workflows through delegation and weekly team meetings.
- Manage all team members, including appraisals and career development.
- Be the main contact for queries from other internal departments e.g. Partner HR.
- Handle day-to-day partner accounting for certain existing offices within the Group, including those with more complex structures.
- Act as lead reviewer on various deliverables.
- Be hands-on in assisting team members to meet deadlines wherever required.
- Lead on new office set-ups.
- Coordinate projects and strategic initiatives e.g. improving existing systems and processes.
About You:
- Several years' experience as a Partnership Accountant within an international law firm.
- ACA/ACCA qualified, or qualified by experience.
- Proficient in Excel.
- Ideally experienced in Aderant.
- Experience in managing team members.
- Highly organised - proven experience of managing competing deadlines and directing workflows.
- Committed to providing consistently excellent service to Partners.
- Strong communication skills (written and verbal) - including with senior stakeholders.
- Excellent attention to detail, with ability to work both efficiently and accurately.
- Commercial in outlook.
- Team player - practical, enthusiastic and flexible.
The main responsibilities of this role are outlined above; however, this description is not exhaustive, and the job holder may be required to undertake additional duties from time to time to ensure the smooth running of the department. The role may require some working outside our normal working hours of 9:30am-5:30pm.
Locations
Head of Partnership Accounts employer: BIRD & BIRD
Contact Detail:
BIRD & BIRD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Partnership Accounts
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a Head of Partnership Accounts role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on an opportunity!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm thoroughly. Understand their values, recent projects, and how they operate. This will not only help you answer questions but also show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience as a Partnership Accountant aligns with the role. Highlight your leadership skills and how you can contribute to the team’s success. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Bird & Bird. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Partnership Accounts
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience as a Partnership Accountant and any relevant qualifications like ACA/ACCA to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of Partnership Accounts role. Share examples of how you've led teams and managed complex accounting tasks in the past.
Showcase Your Team Management Skills: Since this role involves leading a subteam, be sure to mention your experience in managing team members. Talk about how you've supported their development and handled workflows effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at BIRD & BIRD
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Partnership Accountant, you'll need to be on top of your game with financial figures. Brush up on key metrics related to partnership accounts, such as capital contributions and profit allocations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you understand the role inside out.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be leading a subteam, it's crucial to demonstrate your management experience. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on delegation, appraisals, and career development. This will highlight your ability to lead effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding complex partner accounting situations. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage competing deadlines or improve processes, and be ready to share how you tackled those challenges.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication is key in this role, especially when liaising with senior stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a few questions to ask them, showing your interest in collaboration and teamwork.