At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial accounting and reporting while enhancing processes in a dynamic law firm.
- Company: Join Shoosmiths, a top-tier international law firm with a focus on innovation and excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in finance while working with exciting clients and projects.
- Qualifications: Qualified ACA/ACCA/CIMA with experience in financial accounting or group reporting.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
This role can be based in either our Northampton or Manchester office. This role supports the delivery of Shoosmiths’ Strategy 2030, contributing to the firm’s growth as an upper mid-tier international law firm. It focuses on high-quality financial accounting, reporting and control across the Group, while supporting ongoing expansion into new jurisdictions. The role also supports the continued development of the firm’s SAP S/4HANA Cloud platform to deliver scalable, efficient and data-driven finance processes. This is an opportunity for an experienced Financial Accountant or newly qualified auditor to broaden their experience across group reporting, systems and international operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Group Reporting & Control
- Deliver month-end, quarter-end and year-end reporting in line with the group timetable
- Prepare consolidated accounts under UK GAAP (FRS 102)
- Ensure balance sheet integrity and full supporting reconciliations
- Support statutory accounts and external audit
- Financial Accounting
- Execute month-end close including journals, accruals and prepayments
- Perform balance sheet reconciliations and maintain supporting documentation
- Manage intercompany accounting and reconciliations
- Maintain accurate financial records and ensure compliance with policies
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Support SAP S/4HANA Cloud processes and enhancements
- Document and standardise account-to-report processes
- Identify and implement process and control improvements
- Projects & Stakeholder Support
- Support financial workstreams on business projects including integrations
- Build effective relationships with Finance and wider business services teams
Skills & Experience
- ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or equivalent)
- Financial accounting, audit or group reporting experience
- Strong understanding of UK GAAP (FRS 102)
- Experience of ERP systems (SAP desirable)
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
- Effective communication and stakeholder engagement
The Firm
Shoosmiths is the law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters. From offices across the UK and Brussels, we support some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact. We empower our people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. The first top 50 law firm to achieve ‘Platinum Standard’ Investors in People, our values and culture are not just words on our website but are the heartbeat of the firm.
We have an outstanding benefits package to complement our competitive remuneration system. In addition to the competitive salaries, great working environment and high-quality work, we believe that all staff should be rewarded for their commitment to the continued success of the firm through a comprehensive and flexible range of benefits.
Shoosmiths is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. Disability Confident is a government scheme designed to encourage employers to recruit and retain disabled people and those with long term conditions. The Disability Confident scheme replaced the Two Ticks Positive about Disabled People scheme. We had been accredited as a two tick employer for many years - Disability Confident broadens and develops that original commitment, and demonstrates we have adopted a proactive approach to employing disabled people and developing their abilities.
As part of our accreditation, we commit to interviewing any applicants with a disability who meet the essential criteria for each vacancy. In some circumstances we may only be able to interview those that best meet the essential criteria due to the volume of applications received.
We are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is inclusive and accessible to and usable by everyone. If you have a disability or long-term condition and would like to receive information in a different way, or need us to make any adjustments, changes or do anything differently during the recruitment process, please get in touch with the Talent Acquisition Team. We can consider your needs and requirements, and how we can assist you to apply for our roles. For example we can provide a copy of our application via email so that you can complete it using your own accessibility software.
Group Financial Accountant (12 Month FTC) in Manchester employer: Shoosmiths Solicitors
Shoosmiths is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in either Northampton or Manchester, where employees are empowered to thrive and contribute to the firm's ambitious Strategy 2030. With a strong commitment to employee development, a comprehensive benefits package, and a culture that values authenticity and teamwork, Shoosmiths stands out as a top choice for professionals seeking meaningful careers in financial accounting within a supportive and innovative legal firm.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Financial Accountant (12 Month FTC) in Manchester
✨Join Financial Networking Events
Jump into local finance meetups and conferences — they’re a goldmine for temporary roles in banking and financial services. You can chat with industry professionals and even get leads on upcoming opportunities that might not be posted online yet.
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✨Connect with Alumni from Your Uni
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We think you need these skills to ace Group Financial Accountant (12 Month FTC) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
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Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Shoosmiths Solicitors. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Shoosmiths Solicitors confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shoosmiths Solicitors
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Shoosmiths Solicitors.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
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For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Shoosmiths Solicitors that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
