Finance Assistant

The Role:

We have an exciting opportunity for a Finance Assistant to join our Finance department. In this role you will assist in delivering an efficient and effective bill processing service. 

The role requires accuracy and adherence to the firm’s policies and procedures, in relation to billing, credit notes, time write-offs, transfers, VAT and the maintenance of the firm’s financial data. You will ensure that all supplier invoices & staff expenses are posted in an efficient, effective and accurate manner to the correct matter and/or cost code and authorised/paid within the terms of business.

This role forms an essential part of Middle East LLP Finance.  It is an exciting opportunity to work with our friendly and high performing team, who are split between Dubai and the UK.  This role is reporting into the Regional Finance Manager (UK based).

This role is open to Bristol-based candidates or remote candidates who are able to travel to Bristol when required.

As this role supports our Middle East LLP Finance team, the successful candidate will be required to begin work by 8:00am.

We are open to full-time and part-time candidates for this position. If part-time, the successful candidate will be required to work 28 hours across 4 or 5 days per week.

What Will You Do:

• Generating client invoices (being the nominated billing contact for a small group of Middle East partners).
• Posting AP supplier invoices & AP admin.
• Supporting on billing guides and WIP reports.
• Supporting on simple Service Excellence workbooks.
• Monitoring and reporting on utilisation & missing time.

• Validating Employee Expenses.

• Supporting on payment run.
• Supporting on payroll admin.
• Supporting on team mailbox/queries.
• Providing team cover for other Finance team member tasks.
• Supporting the Regional Finance Manager & accountants with audit and ad hoc tasks.
• Collaborating to identify and act on opportunities to improve processes.
• Ensuring that all processes are carried out accurately and in a timely manner, in line with agreed service levels. Adhering to agreed best practices, policies and processes whilst adapting to local requirements.

What We Are Looking For:

Essential

• At least 5 GSCEs grade C or above or equivalent qualifications.
• Proven administrative experience working in a commercial/ business/finance environment.
• Good working use of Microsoft office.
• A hands-on individual who is pro-active.
• Highly organised with the ability to manage a fast-paced workload to meet daily, weekly, monthly, and annual deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail & service orientated.
• Ability to make appropriate decisions seeking advice and escalating issues where necessary.
• Strong interpersonal skills – the ability to communicate effectively by adapting style of written and oral communication appropriately.
• The ability to interact with colleagues of all levels.
• Confident and professional approach.
• A team player who works collaboratively with others to provide quality support to the department and the firm.
• Able to work independently, and effectively as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

• Fluent In English.

Desirable

• Prior experience of working in a law firm.
• Experience working in an ERP system (3E system knowledge an advantage).
• Experience with payroll, accounts payable, billing.

• Excel Skills.

• Prior experience working in or with GCC.

• Arabic Language.

Career Level:

The career level assigned to this role is level 2. The career level framework provides a formal structure for the business services functions at the firm. The framework, which ranges from level 1 to level 7, clearly defines the responsibilities, skills and competencies required at each level.

Here At Simmons & Simmons:

Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also ensure that everyone’s voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You’ll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.  

Some Key Information:

• We offer a competitive package including bonuses dependant on role/level, private medical insurance and pension contribution. 
• Our global skills academy provides our people, regardless of their role and location, with excellent learning opportunities (including live workshops, podcasts, short videos and practical learning experiences).  
• We have adopted a hybrid working approach with a requirement for a minimum of three days in the office with flexibility dependant on role/team/client demands.  
• We bring together the best legal advice from our established legal teams with non-traditional capabilities via Simmons & Simmons Solutions that enhance, expand and differentiate the Simmons offering.  
• We are proud to rank as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
• We have a range of social and sports committees, summer and winter parties and monthly get togethers.  
• We have a range of diversity networks to connect people and celebrate our differences which is integral to our inclusive culture.  
• All UK offices have their own artwork collections – including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin pieces in the London office. We have a long-standing history in supporting the art community especially up-and-coming artists.  
• We have recently introduced a Strategic Advisory Council which is a mix of associates and business services who will propose strategic initiatives that align with our firm's mission and support the delivery of our Business Plan, shaping the future of our next-generation law firm.

Equal Opportunities:

We are committed to fostering equality, diversity and inclusion within our firm and to ensuring equal employment opportunities. We believe that this commitment creates a vibrant and rewarding work environment. We are therefore committed to: 

• Upholding equal opportunities, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, sex, gender reassignment, gender identity, marital status, or pregnancy, including maternity and paternity. This commitment extends to addressing any instances of perceived or associative discrimination and harassment. We also ensure fair treatment during recruitment and selection processes for those who are serving or have served in the armed forces, along with their families. 
• Accommodating requests for flexible working arrangements whenever possible. We encourage you to discuss your needs with us if this is something you require. 
• Making our roles accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know so we can meet your needs. 
• We offer a range of employee networks to support our colleagues. More information about these networks can be found in the D&I Information booklet that candidates are sent when invited to interview.

We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every single requirement. We are looking for individuals who are passionate and eager to learn and grow with us. Your unique experiences and perspectives could be a great addition to our team.

If you’re interested in finding out more about this position, please contact the Recruitment Team . To apply for the role, click on the link at the bottom of the page or visit our career page for more details.