A prestigious International Legal firm is currently looking for a Business Financial Analyst to join their Finance function in Central London.

You will be working closely with the Director of Finance and partners providing financial analysis and support. It is expected the analysis required will be centred on understanding and improving profitability both at matter level and practice area/office level.

Main responsibilities

This is a newly created role and the ultimate aim is to build a small team of financial analysts whose primary responsibility is to take a proactive role in understanding the financials of each practice area, perform detailed financial analysis and provide input to help support management decisions.

In particular the individual will:

• Undertake detailed profitability analysis by matter, client and practice area and present findings and recommendations to partners and management.
• Support individual partners with pricing decisions and provide financial input for pitches as appropriate.
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis as required by management and/or partners.
• Have thorough understanding of the practice group/office financials and alert Director of Finance when issues identified (including detailed review of month end financial information).
• Monitor profitability of individual matters in the group.
• Assist the Director of Finance and Chief Operating Officer in preparing presentations on financial matters including pricing and profitability.
• Monitor associate utilisation for the Practice Groups responsible for and take appropriate action as required/agreed with Practice Group Leader.

Attributes / skills required

• A credible individual with gravitas and ability to command respect of senior leaders within the firm through intellectual ability and highly developed influencing skills;
• A proven track record, with at least 3 years' work experience in a professional services environment (preferably in legal services);
• Robust personality with ability to work under pressure and not to be afraid to challenge senior decision makers;
• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral) and the ability to build rapport quickly with partners and employees at all levels;
• A strategic thinker with excellent analytical skills and a commercial approach;
• Able to use own initiative and challenge work practices;
• Strong excel skills

Education and experience

• Qualified certified or chartered accountant or equivalent
• Previous experience in similar role at a professional services firm is essential