Finance Manager at Africa Law Practice (ALP)

Job Summary:

• We are seeking a dedicated and meticulous Finance Manager to join our team.
• The ideal candidate will play a critical role in overseeing the financial health and strategy of the law firm. This position is responsible for managing budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and compliance, while ensuring the firm’s financial operations align with its strategic goals.
• The Finance Manager will work closely with partners, the Practice Manager, department heads, external auditors and stakeholders to provide financial insights that support decision-making and drive profitability.
• This role requires strong analytical skills, an understanding of legal billing practices, and experience in financial management within a professional services environment.

Job Profile:

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Develop and manage the annual budget in collaboration with department heads and partners.
• Monitor financial performance against budget and provide regular updates to Firm’s Partners at monthly meetings

Financial Reporting:

• Prepare and present accurate and timely financial statements for ALP Group.
• Generate quarterly financial reports for partners, highlighting key metrics and trends.

Client Billing and Revenue Management:

• Oversee the client billing process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Monitor accounts receivable and work with billing coordinators to address any discrepancies or issues.

Cost Control:

• Analyse and control operating expenses, identifying areas for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Provide insights into the profitability of different practice areas or client accounts.

Treasury Management:

• Manage the firm's cash flow, ensuring sufficient liquidity for day-to-day operations.
• Identify sources in which excess funds can be channelled into, to generate interest.
• Coordinate with partners to address any cash flow challenges and optimize working capital.

Financial Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory financial requirements.
• Collaborate with external auditors to facilitate annual audits and address any audit-related matters.

Tax Planning and Compliance:

• Develop and implement tax strategies to optimize the firm's tax position.
• Stay informed about changes in tax laws and regulations affecting the legal industry.

Financial Analysis and Decision Support:

• Provide financial analysis and insights to support strategic decision-making by the firm's leadership.
• Evaluate the financial implications of new client engagements, partnerships, or other business initiatives.

Technology and Process Improvement:

• Stay abreast of financial technologies and tools that can enhance efficiency.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements within the accounting functions.

Team Management:

• Lead and manage the accounting team, providing guidance and support.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• ICAN (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria) (ACA or FCA), and/or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) certification is mandatory.
• Minimum of 7-8 years’ post qualification work experience (preferably in finance/ accounting roles)
• A master’s degree (MBA or MSc) in Finance or Accounting is an added advantage.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g. Xero) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) is required
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and tax regulations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.