Overview of the Function
The Global Finance function ensures robust financial control across our global
operations, whilst partnering with the firm as a valued commercial advisor,
influencing strategic decision making and driving long term profitable growth
for the firm.
We achieve our vision with all our people working collaboratively with a shared
culture and identifying themselves as part of one inclusive Global Finance team.
Role summary/purpose of job
This is a role of critical importance and trust within our global finance
function. As a Cashier, you will be a guardian of the firm's assets and, most
importantly, our clients' funds. You will be responsible for the accurate and
timely processing of all incoming payments and the meticulous administration of
our client trust accounts. This position requires an individual with exceptional
attention to detail, a strong sense of ownership, and an unwavering commitment
to compliance and accuracy. You will play a vital part in upholding the firm's
fiduciary duty and ensuring the integrity of our financial operations.
Key responsibilities and deliverables
Cash Receipting & Application:
* Accurately and promptly process and apply all incoming client and office
payments received via wire, ACH, and cheque across multiple currencies.
* Research and resolve unidentified or unallocated cash receipts, liaising with
clients, the collections team, and fee-earners as necessary.
* Manage the daily cash reconciliation process for all receipts, ensuring the
firm’s records match bank statements perfectly.
Client Money (IOLTA/Trust) Management:
* Serve as a key operator in managing the firm's IOLTA (Interest on Lawyers'
Trust Accounts) and other client trust accounts, ensuring strict compliance
with State Bar rules and regulations.
* Accurately record the receipt of client funds into the appropriate client
trust ledger.
* Process payments to third parties from trust accounts, ensuring proper
documentation and partner approval is in place.
* Execute approved transfers of funds between trust accounts and the firm’s
office accounts to settle client bills.
* Assist in the regular reconciliation of all client trust accounts, ensuring
every penny is accounted for.
Controls & Team Support:
* Adhere to all internal financial controls and segregation of duties policies
to prevent fraud and error.
* Prepare reports on cash receipts and trust account balances for management.
* Liaise with the Billing, Collections, and Accounts Payable teams to resolve
cross-functional queries.
* Serve as a point of contact for fee-earners and their assistants for queries
related to client payments and trust balances.
Essential Experience & Skills:
* Prior experience in a finance or accounting role within a law firm is
essential.
* Direct, hands-on experience with cash application and, critically, IOLTA or
client trust accounting is mandatory.
* Impeccable attention to detail and a commitment to 100% accuracy.
* High level of integrity and discretion, with a complete understanding of the
confidential nature of the role.
* Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet strict daily deadlines in
a high-volume processing environment.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to investigate
and resolve discrepancies methodically.
* Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience working with a large-scale
accounting system.
Desirable Skills:
* Experience with a legal-specific ERP system (e.g., Elite 3E or Aderant
Expert) is highly desirable.
* Familiarity with online banking platforms for reporting and transaction
investigation.
For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in New York and California,
Freshfields is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the
compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to the
States of New York and California and takes into account the wide range of
factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not
limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications;
and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has
not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the
location at which the position may be filled, and compensation decisions are
dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of
the current range is $90,000 to $100,000.
EEO Statement
Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment employer. Our policies and
practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color,
ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related
medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry,
age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability,
medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or
any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an
atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory
practices, including sexual harassment.
Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Freshfields US LLP
Freshfields US LLP is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides
reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and
disabled veterans in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty
using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you
may use the alternative email address below to contact us about your interest in
employment at BusinessServicesRecruitment@Freshfields.com , or you can send your
resume to BusinessServicesRecruitment@Freshfields.com , or you can call us at
+1-212-277-4000.