Finance Operations Manager

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team (circa 6 people covering Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Trust
• Accounting, Billing Support and Payroll).
• Foster a collaborative, service-oriented culture with a focus on process improvement and optimal use of technology.
• Drive scalability, automation, and efficiency across all core functions.
• Provide regular feedback, conduct performance reviews, and support professional development.

• Oversee the end-to-end AP process, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments.
• Set and monitor AP KPIs; manage vendor relationships and payment terms. Liaise with financial control team on cashflow forecasting.
• Oversee purchase order and expense approval processes; ensure ledger integrity and resolve discrepancies.

• Ensure timely, accurate posting of AR received.
• Monitor AR ageing and drive collection efforts in line with credit policy.
• Set and manage AR KPIs; reconcile ledgers and resolve billing or payment issues.

• Manage daily trust account operations and maintain accurate, compliant records.
• Lead internal reviews and ensure compliance with regulatory obligations, including LIV and LSNSW requirements.
• Implement strong internal controls; support audits and provide trust accounting training where required.

• Oversee accurate and timely payroll processing in collaboration with People & Culture.
• Ensure compliance with payroll legislation, maintain records, and address discrepancies.
• Support HRIS implementation and system integration from a payroll perspective.

• Maintain and enhance internal controls to ensure financial integrity and regulatory compliance.
• Lead or support periodic audits, identify risks, and drive remediation where needed.

• Ensure support provided to LAs and lawyers with regard to billing issues and/or any other finance operational issues.

• Serve as the business owner for Aderant; manage daily operations, issues, and user engagement.
• Lead system enhancements and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain strong system knowledge; document workflows, provide training, and coordinate with IT and vendors.
• Ensure Aderant integrates effectively with other platforms (e.g. HRIS, BI tools); act as the primary point of contact for system-related queries.

• Identify opportunities to leverage emerging technologies, including AI, to improve processes.
• Support broader firm and finance projects, including HRIS implementation and cross-functional initiatives.
• Lead the transition to a fully automated, paperless AP function using existing or new technology solutions

• Undertake other duties as required by the Director of Finance.
• Maintains cyber security at all times. Cultivate an awareness of security risks, stay informed of latest cyber threats, instil best cybersecurity practises and take practical steps to protect the firm and client from cyberattacks.

• Accounting Systems Expertise: Strong proficiency in managing and optimising accounting and ERP systems (preferably Aderant), including issue resolution, process improvement, and training support.
• Transactional Finance Knowledge: Deep understanding of accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and trust accounting processes and compliance requirements.
• Process Improvement & Projects: Demonstrated experience in process review, optimisation, and workflow redesign. Exposure to project management and system implementation preferred.
• Regulatory Compliance: Sound knowledge of internal controls, trust account regulations (including LIV requirements), payroll tax, superannuation, and broader business tax obligations.
• Leadership & People Management: Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop high-performing teams within a finance operations environment.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to explain financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders and build strong cross-functional relationships.
• Reconciliations & Accuracy: High attention to detail with hands-on experience in reconciliations, ledger integrity, and variance analysis.
• Systems & Tools: Advanced Excel skills and strong general computer literacy; experience with BI/reporting tools an advantage.

• Minimum 5 years' experience in a managerial role within finance operations.
• Experience leading or working in transactional finance teams (AP, AR, or Trust) in a professional services, legal, or similar environment.

Russell Kennedy Lawyers