Partner Finance Controller in Manchester

We are Eversheds Sutherland, a global law firm, with more than 5,000 people across over 30 countries. We’re full-service with deep niche and sector experience. Whatever challenge, wherever in the world, we’re equipped and ready to meet it. We live our values, we’re purposeful and purpose-led. So although the world is fast-moving and rapidly changing, we see it as a place where everyone can thrive. We’re ambitious for our clients, our communities – and for you. Whether you’re starting out on your career or well established, whether you’re a lawyer or in business services. If you’re looking for what’s next, we are too.

The Opportunity

We are looking for Partner Finance Controller to join our Finance team in either Manchester, Leeds or London. This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing the firm’s full partner financial framework, including capital contributions, remuneration, profit allocations and compliance. Acting as the firm’s expert advisor, the Partner Finance Controller ensures financial integrity, strong governance and insight-driven decision‑making that supports long‑term sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and sign off partner payroll and remuneration processes, ensuring accuracy, compliance and effective governance.
• Shape partner pay structures and advise senior leadership on reward‑related decisions.
• Manage all aspects of partner capital accounting, setting contribution levels and advising on funding strategies that impact the firm’s capital structure.
• Lead the preparation and review of complex partner financial reporting, providing clear insights and recommendations.
• Define partner accounting policies across multiple jurisdictions and ensure statutory and tax compliance.
• Oversee internal and external audit activity on partner finance, ensuring controls and recommendations are effectively implemented.
• Lead and develop a small team, building capability and ensuring operational excellence.
• Act as the trusted advisor for UK and international offices on partner finance matters.
• Contribute to cross-functional initiatives, including office openings, mergers and strategic partner lifecycle projects.

Skills And Experience

• ACA/ACCA (or equivalent) qualification.
• Significant finance experience, ideally in a global, multi‑currency professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS.
• Excellent communication, influencing and relationship‑building skills.
• Proven leadership capability with the ability to coach, delegate and drive continuous improvement.
• Proficient with financial systems and producing high‑quality analysis and documentation.

What’s in it for you?

At Eversheds Sutherland, we provide benefits focused on looking after you: your development, your performance, your financial future and your health, as well as providing the opportunity to make a contribution to the world.

• We’re fair, transparent and equitable.
• We share in the success of the firm, reward alignment to our values, going above and beyond and your individual performance.
• We support flexible ways of working through our remote working policy and commitment to flexible, agile and hybrid ways of working.
• We support your health and performance through our dental, healthcare and wellness support.
• We support everything you are and all you bring through our powerful commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• We provide a platform for your career, whatever your ambitions through our structured professional and personal training, mentoring and development programs.
• We provide experience and opportunity through international and cross‑function exposure.
• We provide an opportunity to give back through our pro bono work and community engagement.
• We help you plan ahead through retirement planning, insurance and assurance.

Diversity & Inclusion

At Eversheds Sutherland, “Inclusive” is a core business value. We bring together different skillsets, global mindsets and approaches. We foster diversity of thought and the freedom to put ideas into action. We have an inherent respect for the individual. We have a strong belief in collaboration and teamwork. Sharing ideas, asking questions, solving challenges and meeting our clients’ goals: together. We want all our people to thrive at work and reach their full potential and we work hard to continue to build a diverse and inclusive culture, monitor and report on our progress and impact, and develop our approach. This is reflected in our policies, systems and processes, and in our work with diversity membership organisations. Many of our people work flexibly in some way and we are open to considering how we can accommodate flexible working arrangements alongside role requirements. If this is important to you, please talk to us about it during the recruitment process. We want you to perform at your best during our recruitment process. If there is any adjustment or support you need, please contact us so we can discuss how we can best assist you.