Creating highly ethical and collaborative property partnerships.
We have recently acquired a legal practice in South Shields, and are looking for a client accountant to join the firm to assist in the day to day financial management. The company will be a modern and cutting edge practice that delivers exceptional client services.
Your profile
The Client and Business Account Manager will oversee the financial operations of an established solicitor’s office in South Shields, Newcastle. Specialising in conveyancing, wills, and probate, the firm requires a detail-oriented and experienced professional to ensure compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Accounts Rules, manage client and business accounts, and provide financial insight to support strategic decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Client Account Management:
* Ensure compliance with SRA Accounts Rules for client account transactions.
* Oversee and reconcile client account ledgers on a daily basis.
* Monitor client funds to ensure they are used appropriately and report any discrepancies.
* Manage client billing processes, including issuing invoices and addressing queries.
Business Account Management:
* Manage the day-to-day financial operations for the firm’s business account, including payments, reconciliations, and reporting.
* Oversee payroll, VAT returns, and supplier payments.
Compliance & Auditing:
* Maintain compliance with SRA regulations and other legal finance requirements.
* Liaise with auditors for annual reviews and preparation of financial statements.
* Implement robust controls to mitigate financial risks.
Stakeholder Engagement:
* Collaborate with legal teams to provide financial updates on client matters.
* Act as the primary point of contact for external financial partners, including banks and auditors.
* Present financial performance reports to senior leadership.
Process Improvement:
* Identify and implement improvements to financial processes and systems.
* Stay up to date with changes to legal finance regulations and ensure the firm’s policies are aligned.
Person Specification
Essential Qualifications & Skills:
* A minimum of 3 years’ experience in legal finance or a similar role.
* Strong knowledge of SRA Accounts Rules and legal finance operations.
* Proficient in Xero, QuickBooks, or similar accounting software.
* Excellent analytical, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
* Proficient in the Microsoft Office suite.
Desirable Attributes:
* Previous experience in a solicitor’s office or legal sector, particularly in conveyancing, wills, and probate.
* Proven track record of improving financial processes.
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
Benefits and Working Hours
* Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, with a one-hour lunch break.
* Holiday Entitlement: 20 days per annum plus bank holidays and Christmas office closure.
* Company Benefits:
o Pooled office bonus structure based on performance.
o Pension scheme.
o Opportunities for professional development and training.
* Work Environment: Supportive and collaborative team in a well-established solicitor’s office.
About us
Madison Brook is a multi disciplined and diverse property services group, operating across London. Our vision is to deliver highly ethical, collaborative, and sustainable property services, with stakeholders placed at the heart of everything we do.
We are looking for growth mindset people that share our values, and have a desire to help us achieve our ambitions.