Career Opportunities

Manager, Finance

Calgary
Permanent Full-Time

Overview

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes), one of Canada’s largest and most successful law firms, is currently looking for a Finance Manager to join the Finance department in the Calgary office. 

Reporting to the Director, Administration, the Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing all finance cycle activities in the Calgary office, including budget preparation and maintenance, accounts payable and receivable, billings and ad hoc projects as assigned.

  • Responsibilities

    Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

    Finance Management & Reporting 

    • Managing the annual operating and capital budgets for the Calgary office, which includes financial analyses, variance reporting, etc. (With Financial Analyst)
    • Providing strategic financial reports to the Office Managing Partner and senior management 
    • Preparing various reports and statistical information requested by lawyers (i.e., aged accounts receivable, time reports, work in progress, etc.)
    • Analyzing complex financial data and identifying root causes behind variances, risks and general performance gaps
    • Distilling complex financial information into clear, actionable recommendations for leadership

    Accounting Operations & Compliance 

    • Overseeing workload, coordination and performance of four accounting staff responsible for monthly billings, accounts payable, cash deposits, internal audit requests and conflict checks
    • Managing accurate accounting of all trust funds held by the Firm and in accordance with the Law Society of Alberta’s regulations
    • Preparing journal entries and monthly bank reconciliations
    • Managing internal and external audits
    • Maintaining day-to-day relations with the banks, prepare local and international wires, resolve banking issues, etc.

    Advisory & Client Service 

    • Managing all financial inquiries from clients, lawyers and staff
    • Exercising discretion in handling sensitive financial data and making decisions that impact the business and stakeholders
    • Anticipating potential issues in budgeting, forecasting and reporting and developing proactive solutions

    Leadership & Collaboration 

    • Collaborating with all Blakes offices to ensure consistent, accurate and sustainable financial practices 
    • Managing memberships, including Law Society of Alberta, Canadian Bar Association and Calgary Bar Association 
    • Applying sound judgement in balancing short-term financial pressures with long-term strategic goals
    • Demonstrating resiliency and adaptability in resolving unexpected financial or operational challenges
    • Collaborating across all areas of the business to gather input, test assumptions and deliver financial sustainable solutions
    • Continuously improving processes and implementing practical, sustainable solutions
  • Education & Experience
    • Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting or related field, CPA designation preferred 
    • Experience in a professional services organization is considered an asset 
    • 8-10 years of progressive experience in financial management, accounting or related roles
  • Skills & Abilities
    • Proven experience in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis
    • Strong knowledge of all GAAP/IFRS/ASPE and compliance with financial regulations  
    • Proficiency with ERP systems, financial software and advanced Excel
    • Demonstrated leadership experience in managing and developing finance teams
    • Strong business acumen with the ability to connect financial management with organizational strategy
    • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills under pressure
    • Exceptional communication and presentation skills for diverse stakeholders

    • About Blakes

    At Blakes, we care about our people. We are committed to providing exceptional experiences for our clients and employees. As a winner of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and Greater Toronto’s Top Employers awards, we understand the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace environment that brings out the best in each person. Our success as a firm starts with hiring top talent, retaining our people and helping them thrive.

    Blakes welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. The Firm is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment composed of people with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, identities and cultures.

    The Firm provides accommodation for applicants with disabilities and in respect of other protected grounds during the recruitment process in accordance with applicable laws. Please contact us to request accommodation.

    How to Apply

    To apply for this position, please submit your application along with a cover letter and résumé directly to our application portal.

    Blakes wishes to thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

     

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