Careers

About Ashurst

Ashurst is a leading progressive global law firm with a rich history spanning more than 200 years. We are proud of our history and are future-focused, having expanded into new technologies through our NewLaw division, Ashurst Advance, and our consulting arm. Our in-depth understanding of our clients and commitment to providing excellent standards of service have seen us become a trusted adviser to local and global corporates, financial institutions and governments in all areas of commercial law. To find out more, please visit www.ashurst.com.

Department/ Role Overview

We are looking for a meticulous and proactive team player to join the Financial Management team in Hong Kong as a Finance Manager. The job holder will work closely with the Head of Financial Management, Asia to manage the Hong Kong finance function including all aspects of financial management and control, analysis and reporting (locally and to London).

The Finance Manager is responsible for all operational and strategic aspects of the finance function in Hong Kong with three direct report in the team. The role will guide and act as primary advisor to the Office Managing Partner and Head of Financial Management, Asia on all finance related matters.

An integral aspect of the role is to ensure effective and consistent financial management practices across the office.

Main Responsibilities

• Work with team members and Glasgow Financial Management team on monthly closing process.
• Manage local office financial operation process which includes managing staff reimbursement, vendor payment process, disbursement and payroll processing (Finance's part).
• Work closely with the Office Managing Partner and Head of Financial Management, Asia to monitor financial information for Hong Kong (including management accounts and other key reports), complete ad hoc analysis and prepare commentary.
• Work closely with the Office Managing Partner, Head of Financial Management, Asia and team lead of other business services function during the business planning and annual budgeting processes.
• Oversee time and billing processes in the office, ensuring that all time worked on client matters is recorded on the firm's practice management system and that bills are rendered to clients on a timely basis.
• Work closely with Working Capital Manager, Asia and local partners in managing working capital for Hong Kong. Including working with partners and associates to ensure prompt collection of outstanding amounts and prompt billings of time worked on client matter.
• Work with team in preparing monthly management accounts for Hong Kong office, including profit and loss account and balance sheet, investigate variances and reconcile balance sheet accounts.
• Manage banking relationship with banks, manage office and client bank accounts and prepare cash flow forecasts on a regular basis.
• Liaise with London and external advisors on Hong Kong tax-related matters, include reporting of partners tax.
• Manage local annual audit process, ensuring audit queries are addressed and complete in time.
• Review existing finance operation process and improve efficiency where applicable
• Manage team members development.

Other Tasks

• Any other ad hoc tasks as assigned and arise.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Qualified accountant with at least 10 to 15 years of experience in professional services firm, law firm is an advantage.
• Solid knowledge in accounting including month end process, concept of accruals and prepayment, and knowledge in local tax and reporting.
• Knowledge of international accounting environment, experience of accruals based accounting and an awareness of multi-currency accounting.
• Practical experience and knowledge with Elite 3E, TM1.
• Good conversational and writing skills in both English and Chinese.
• Computer literate (strong Excel skills essential), highly numerate with good analytical skills.
• Experience and track record of managing and developing a team.
• Solid time management skills with the ability to work to targets and tight/ specific deadlines (both individual and team).
• Ability to gain trust and develop rapport with teammates and stakeholders.
• Practical problem solving skills with ability to negotiate suitable outcomes.
• Ability to cope under pressure within a dynamic environment.

Personal Attributes

• Organised and methodical approach to work, ensuring that deadlines are met, with an appropriate attention to detail.
• A self-starter with a proactive approach, willing to take on challenge.
• A team player with the ability to work within a broad team and the wider firm.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate clearly, orally or in writing, with all levels of staff, including non-finance staff.

Background Checks

In order to comply with regulatory and client requirements, Ashurst will undertake appropriate vetting of staff. When applicants accept a job offer, Ashurst, alongside a specialist provider, will undertake professional verification and background checks. These checks are only undertaken with consent, and in accordance with our legal and regulatory obligations.