Senior Client Accounting Specialist

The Senior Client Accounting Specialist is responsible for successful execution of the billing and collection strategy for their assigned partners or office/practice groups in conjunction with firm best practices as well as in accordance with client requirements.

This position will (i) collaborate closely with partners and practice group leaders along with other Finance teams including client reporting, and revenue operations teams, (ii) ensure timeliness and accuracy of bills as well as securing prompt payment, (iii) ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines, rates in-line with client agreements before billing, and other client considerations (iv) respond effectively and accurately to partner or client requests.

Responsibilities

• Drive the billing and collection process to ensure accurate and timely invoicing and payment of clients for assigned partners, practice groups, and/or offices.
• Monitor assigned partner’s monthly aging AR reports and take appropriate action to ensure each invoice is paid on time and in full; direct teams to follow-up on underpayments and help with resolution, as needed.
• Update key finance reports (e.g., projection amounts, clear and concise billing or AR comments) daily, to ensure timely and quality reporting for Senior Management.
• Successful handling of more complex billing and ensuring timely and accurate billing and collections process.
• Follow-up with partners and escalate any billing or collection issues or delays.
• Respond to billing and AR inquiries Preparation of bills including narrative descriptions, transfers and on account applications, with high attention to detail.
• Interpret, advise and influence assigned partners by reviewing their SOE, understanding the billing arrangement and billing frequency of each matter and client.
• Obtain and review/understand Engagement letters and Outside Counsel Guidelines to support adherence to these client requirements. Review timekeeper diaries and costs to ensure compliance with client outside counsel guidelines.
• Collaborate with internal clients and other finance teams, such as Pricing Operations and E-Billing, to ensure accurate client invoices, submission requirements, and reporting.
• Coordinate and lead UBT/AR meetings with assigned partners regularly (e.g., at least once a month).
• Monitor bill processing status and perform necessary follow up.
• Ensure successful submission of E-Billing through Billblast or directly through the clients third party E- Billing vendor.
• Collaborate with the Client Account and Revenue Operations teams to develop efficiencies in the billing process.
• Validate and test functionality and reports during billing system and report upgrades.
• Support the Client Accounting Managers and Advisors, as needed, with all aspects of day to day operations of the client accounting team in accordance with Firm policies and procedures.
• Take part in ad hoc client analysis projects as requested and handle a portfolio of complex matters and special projects, as assigned.
• Clearly document areas of responsibility for partner requirements, including key client requirements (billing, collecting, fee arrangements) in order to allow more streamlined collaboration, clarity, and coverage among team.

Individual Experience, Skills and Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent level professional qualification in Finance, Business Administration, or
  related fields is desirable.
• 4-5 years of relevant billing and client relationship experience at a professional service firm or law firm
  is required.
• Strong proficiency with Excel and Word.
• Highly organised and able to manage own workload and meet deadlines while working autonomously.
• Excellent writing, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong knowledge of billing and collections processes, strong technical billing and
  client service skills, ability to investigate issues and errors.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, consensus-driven, partnership environment with highly
  skilled professionals.
• Demonstrates strong customer service for both internal and external clients.
• Has the ability to anticipate clients’ needs and future requests based on trends.
• Proactively seeks ways to make improvements.
• Exhibits leadership characteristics and displays sound work ethic.
• Acts as a role model and subject matter expert for more junior team members.

If you are interested in applying, please submit a CV and short cover letter to the London Human Resources Team, LON-HR@cgsh.com.