Legal Entity Controller (LEC) - Director / AVP

This role sits within the Legal Entity Control (LEC) team and is responsible for the day‑to‑day management of a portfolio of legal entities. You will help ensure accurate financial reporting, strong controls and effective coordination with key stakeholders across the business. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their technical expertise, build strong relationships and contribute to ongoing automation and transformation.

This is a Director level position within our Corporate Controllers, Reporting & Accounting Job Family which is responsible for the accuracy and control of the Firm’s books and records to produce the consolidated firm, segment and legal entities financial statements, including development, management and oversight of financial accounting & reporting systems as well as database management, including capital and liquidity reporting and external reporting functions.

In the Finance division, we act as a partner to business units around the globe by providing management, review, analysis and advisory services of the Firm’s financial and capital resources.

What you’ll do:

• Build trusted relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including Product Control, Treasury, Business Units, Tax, Company Secretarial and external auditors.
• Contribute insight and analysis to legal entity related discussions and project initiatives, providing clear and thoughtful challenge.
• Responsible for the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting for the portfolio, including management accounts, financial statements and variance analysis.
• Prepare clear and timely financial information to support senior reviews and decision making.

What you’ll bring:

• Identifying opportunities for automation and the practical use of AI to improve processes.
• Identify, assess and document risks at legal entity level, including tax, transfer pricing and policy application.
• Implement control enhancements and ensure issues are escalated appropriately.
• At least 4 years’ relevant experience would generally be expected to find the skills required for this role.

Team contribution & development:

• Be an active contributor within the LEC team, sharing knowledge and supporting colleagues.
• Help build a collaborative and positive team culture.

What we’re looking for:

• Qualified accountant (CA, ACCA or CIMA) with strong technical accounting knowledge.
• Experience managing financial reporting in complex environments.
• Clear and confident communication skills with experience of building trusted relationships with senior stakeholders.
• Practical interest or experience in using automation and AI tools to improve ways of working.
• Good judgement with a strong awareness of risk and control.

Certified Persons Regulatory Requirements:

If this role is deemed a Certified role and may require the role holder to hold mandatory regulatory qualifications or the minimum qualifications to meet internal company benchmarks.

Flexible work statement:

Interested in flexible working opportunities? Morgan Stanley empowers employees to have greater freedom of choice through flexible working arrangements. Speak to our recruitment team to find out more.

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Morgan Stanley is an equal opportunity employer committed to building and maintaining a workforce that is diverse in experience and background. Our recruiting efforts reflect our strong commitment to a culture of inclusion, where individuals are hired, developed, and advanced based on their skills and talents.