At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and oversee finance operations across European offices, driving strategy and compliance.
- Company: Prestigious international law firm with a strong focus on collaboration and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and influence in strategic decision-making.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent visibility and career advancement potential.
- Why this job: Shape the future of finance in a leading law firm and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in finance, with strong leadership and technical skills in a professional services environment.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 80000 £ 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
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience leading finance teams within a law firm or professional services environment
- Strong technical knowledge across accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, billing, and collections
- Experience with partnership accounting and tax strongly preferred
- Track record of senior stakeholder engagement, including partners and executive leadership
- Ability to operate with discretion, autonomy, and sound judgement in a complex environment
- Excellent communication, analytical, and presentation skills
- Strong process‑improvement mindset with experience streamlining and automating workflows
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree (or UK equivalent) in Accounting or a related discipline
- 7+ years' relevant finance and accounting experience
- Minimum 5 years' management experience within a law firm or professional services firm
- Extensive experience with Elite 3E or a similar ERP system
Why Apply?
This is a highly visible, influential role offering the opportunity to shape and lead European finance operations within a prestigious international law firm. You'll work closely with regional and global leadership, influence strategic decision‑making, and play a key role in supporting the firm's continued growth across Europe.
Director of Finance in London employer: Ryder Reid
As a leading international law firm, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our London office, along with our European locations, offers a collaborative environment where finance professionals can thrive, supported by comprehensive training programmes and opportunities for advancement. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a prestigious setting, where your expertise will directly influence our strategic direction and operational excellence across Europe.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Finance in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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We think you need these skills to ace Director of Finance in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Ryder Reid.
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Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Ryder Reid's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ryder Reid
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Ryder Reid.
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✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Ryder Reid employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
