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- Tasks: Lead finance operations across Europe, managing teams and driving financial strategy.
- Company: A leading international law firm with a strong presence in Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with a focus on operational excellence and compliance.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on financial strategy in a dynamic legal environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive finance experience and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
A leading international law firm is seeking an experienced Director of Finance – Europe to oversee and lead its European finance operations. This is a senior leadership role with responsibility across London and the firm’s European offices, working closely with partners and senior management at both regional and global level. The successful candidate will play a key role in financial strategy, operational excellence, compliance, and supporting long‑term business planning across the European platform.
The Role
Reporting to the Global CFO and European COO, the Director of Finance will be responsible for all aspects of financial management across the firm’s European offices, including general ledger, accounts payable, treasury (including client trust accounts), revenue control, and financial reporting and planning. You will lead and develop finance teams, act as a key liaison between Europe and the global finance function, and partner closely with senior stakeholders across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day‑to‑day finance operations and teams across London and European offices
- Oversee European general ledger and balance sheet management, ensuring timely reconciliations and issue resolution
- Lead European budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning in collaboration with partners and practice leadership
- Deliver monthly financial reporting, analysis, and variance commentary
- Oversee treasury operations, cash flow management, and working capital performance
- Act as COFA, with responsibility for client money procedures, controls, and annual SAR audit
- Oversee billing and revenue control in partnership with the Revenue Manager
- Input into pricing and matter planning decisions
- Ensure compliance with firmwide and local financial policies, controls, and best practices
- Drive process improvement, automation, and efficiency across finance operations
- Lead the implementation and roll‑out of financial systems and applications in Europe
- Liaise with external tax advisers and internal tax teams to support UK, German, and Belgian tax filings
- Provide financial insight and support to European senior management and strategic initiatives
- Support firm‑wide and ad hoc projects as directed by leadership
Director of Finance - Europe employer: Ryder Reid Legal
Contact Detail:
Ryder Reid Legal Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance - Europe
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work in law firms. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm’s financial strategies and recent developments. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their operations and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance - Europe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Finance role. Highlight your experience in financial management, budgeting, and team leadership. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in finance and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior leadership role, we’re looking for candidates who can lead teams effectively. Be sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed finance teams and collaborated with senior stakeholders in your application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ryder Reid Legal
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Finance, you’ll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the firm and be prepared to discuss how you've used them in past roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with finance but can also apply it strategically.
✨Understand the Business
Research the law firm’s operations, especially in Europe. Understand their financial challenges and opportunities. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their success.
✨Show Leadership Skills
Be ready to share examples of how you’ve led finance teams and managed cross-functional projects. Highlight your experience in driving process improvements and how you’ve fostered collaboration among stakeholders. This is crucial for a senior role like this one.
✨Prepare Questions
Have insightful questions ready for your interviewers. Ask about their financial strategy, challenges they face in the European market, or how they envision the role evolving. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the firm aligns with your career goals.