A leading US law firm are seeking an experienced Director of Finance - Europe to lead and oversee its European finance operations. This is a senior leadership role, offering significant exposure to firmwide strategy, European senior management, and global finance leadership.
The Role
As Director of Finance - Europe, you will have overall responsibility for the financial management of the firm's European offices, including London, Brussels and Frankfurt. You will oversee all core finance functions across the region, including general ledger, accounts payable, treasury (including client trust accounts), revenue control, reporting, planning and forecasting.
You will act as a trusted adviser to senior stakeholders, supporting strategic decision‑making while ensuring robust financial controls, compliance, and best‑in‑class financial operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage day‑to‑day finance operations and finance teams across European offices
- Oversee all European general ledger and balance sheet accounts, working closely with global finance teams to ensure timely reconciliations
- Own European budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes in partnership with senior local leadership
- Deliver monthly financial reporting, variance analysis and management packs for European senior management
- Oversee treasury operations, cash flow management and client money procedures
- Act as COFA, with responsibility for client money controls and the annual SAR audit
- Oversee VAT compliance and the preparation of partnership tax returns, liaising with external advisers as required
- Work closely with revenue and billing teams on working capital management and revenue control
- Provide financial input into pricing, matter planning and strategic initiatives
- Ensure compliance with local and firmwide financial policies, controls and procedures, implementing best practice and process improvements
- Lead the implementation and roll‑out of finance systems and applications across European offices
- Support senior management with strategic reviews, long‑term planning and special projects as required
Key Skills & Experience
- Proven senior finance leadership experience in a law firm environment (and therefore able to take on COFA responsibilities)
- Strong people leadership skills, with experience managing, coaching and developing high‑performing teams
- Excellent analytical, organisational and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to exercise independent judgement on complex and sensitive matters
- Exceptional communication skills, with the confidence to engage and influence senior stakeholders
- High attention to detail, integrity, and the ability to operate effectively under pressure
Qualifications & Background
- 7+ years' experience across core finance functions, including budgeting, reporting, accounting and financial analysis
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a management role within a law firm
- Partnership tax experience is advantageous
- Extensive experience with Elite 3E or a similar ERP system
Why Apply?
This is a high‑impact leadership opportunity within a prestigious, international law firm. The role offers senior stakeholder exposure, strategic influence across Europe, and the chance to shape finance operations within a sophisticated professional services environment.
Hybrid working: 3 days office / 2 days remote
#J-18808-Ljbffr