We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Head Legal Cashier to lead our small accounts team within a busy high street solicitors' practice. This role combines day-to-day legal cashiering responsibilities with broader financial management duties, requiring someone who thrives in a legal environment and can balance operational oversight with some strategic financial input.
Key Responsibilities
Legal Cashiering & Accounts Management
- Oversee the daily operation of the accounts team, ensuring accurate and timely processing of all financial transactions in compliance with the SRA Accounts Rules
- Maintain client and office bank accounts, reconciling balances daily and resolving discrepancies promptly
- Process client payments, receipts, transfers, and disbursements accurately through the firm's case management system
- Assist Fee Earners with the preparation and submission of bills/credit notes
- Ensure proper maintenance of the firm's financial records and ledgers
- Assist the credit control function by taking card payments from clients as and when required
- Maintain the firm’s petty cash, reconciling the balances and ensuring all expenditure is accounted for.
Financial Management & Compliance
- Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns to HMRC, ensuring accuracy and compliance with current regulations
- Coordinate and manage the annual audit, liaising with external accountants and addressing any findings
- Assist the Finance Director in the preparation of the monthly management accounts, financial reports, and analysis for senior management
- Oversee credit control procedures and assist with debt recovery processes
- Maintain the firm's financial policies and procedures, recommending improvements where necessary
Team Leadership & Development
- Line-manage and support the accounts team, allocating work effectively and ensuring adequate training
- Provide guidance and mentoring to team members, fostering professional development
- Conduct regular team meetings and one-to-ones to monitor performance and address issues
- Implement and maintain quality control processes within the accounts function
Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the primary point of contact for financial queries from fee-earners and support staff
- Liaise with the Finance Director and Chief Executive on financial matters, budgets, and forecasting
- Communicate effectively with the firm's bankers, auditors, and other external stakeholders
- Support fee-earners with billing queries and financial aspects of client matters
Essential Requirements
Experience & Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Legal Cashier, ideally at a senior or supervisory level within a solicitors' practice
- Demonstrable knowledge of the SRA Accounts Rules and legal accounting procedures
- Experience in managing VAT returns, client money audits, and financial reporting
- Hands-on experience working within a high street or similar legal environment
- Previous experience managing or supervising an accounts team
Skills & Competencies
- Strong technical accounting skills with high attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent knowledge of legal accounting software (e.g.SOS, or similar systems)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other financial analysis tools
- Sound understanding of UK VAT regulations and financial compliance requirements
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues
Personal Attributes
- A proactive, hands-on approach with willingness to be involved in day-to-day operations
- Strong leadership qualities with the ability to motivate and develop a small team
- High level of integrity and professionalism in handling confidential financial information
- Problem-solving mindset with the ability to work independently and use initiative
- Resilient and adaptable, able to work effectively in a busy, fast-paced environment
Desirable Requirements
- AAT qualification (Level 3 or above) or equivalent accounting qualification
- Experience of credit control and debt recovery within a legal setting
- Knowledge of financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting
- Familiarity with Law Society guidance and best practice for legal accounts
What We Offer
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Benefits include: 25 days holiday plus a day off for birthday, pension scheme, employee assistance programme, free eye tests, optional healthcare cashback scheme, access to a retail discounts platform and staff discount on our legal services.
- The opportunity to play a key role in a respected high street practice
- A supportive working environment with scope for professional growth
This role will commence in January 2027
To apply, please forward your CV and covering letter to fionam@tgbaynes.com