Associate Director - Finance (12-month fixed-term contract)

About Law Debenture

Law Debenture is an Investment Trust supported by a wholly owned professional services business. LawDeb is an unusual and exciting proposition; on a day-to-day basis we are nimble, ambitious and small enough to know everyone by name, whilst also benefiting from the profile and credibility of a listed business. This is thanks to our 135-year-old FTSE250 investment trust and our fast-growing independent professional services business of over 300 colleagues across 6 business lines.

At LawDeb, doing work that has a positive impact is important to us. We need the very best people to be the custodians of our business for the next stage of our proud history and growth. We're ambitious to innovate, collaborate and push forward in providing peace of mind and excellence for our clients and each other.

We're on a journey to shape a culture we're all proud to be part of. One where everyone feels trusted, supported and empowered to own their success. Working at LawDeb, you will have access to our enviable network of clients and innovative projects, as well as brilliant colleagues to learn from and collaborate with.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced finance professional to join our Finance team as Associate Director - Finance on a 12-month fixed-term contract. Reporting to the Group Finance Director, this senior role within our FTSE 250 group-including an investment trust-offers the opportunity to lead critical financial operations and contribute to high-profile external reporting

Job Role & Responsibilities

Investment Trust Fund Accounting

• Lead the fund accounting function for the investment trust, ensuring accurate valuation and reporting of investment portfolios
• Oversee daily NAV calculations and portfolio reconciliations
• Manage relationships with fund administrators and custodians
• Ensure compliance with investment trust regulations and AIFMD requirements
• Prepare monthly and quarterly fund performance reports for the board and stakeholders

Group External Reporting

• Play a key role in preparing the annual report and accounts for the listed entity
• Lead elements of the half-yearly financial reporting process
• Ensure compliance with FCA listing rules, UK GAAP/IFRS, and Companies Act requirements
• Coordinate with external auditors during statutory audit processes
• Support the preparation of regulatory announcements and RNS statements

Financial Management & Analysis

• Provide technical accounting expertise across complex transactions and accounting standards
• Support month-end and quarter-end reporting processes
• Assist with budget preparation of investment trust and forecasting activities
• Conduct technical accounting research and provide guidance on emerging accounting standards

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Manage and develop team members within the finance function
• Liaise with senior management, Audit & Risk Committee, investment managers and external auditors
• Collaborate with wider group Finance team to oversee year-end deliver of annual report

Essential Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• 10+ years post-qualification experience as ACA/ACCA qualified accountant
  
• Demonstrable experience in FCA reporting and listed company environments
• Strong background in investment management or fund accounting
• Experience with financial instruments and fair value accounting
• Deep knowledge of IFRS and regulatory reporting requirements
• Understanding of FCA listing rules and investment trust regulations
• Experience with fund accounting and investment administration
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with financial reporting systems
• Technically strong with attention to detail and accuracy
• Highly committed with ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Strong communication skills with ability to explain complex matters to non-finance stakeholders
• Leadership capabilities with experience managing teams
• Adaptable and able to quickly integrate into an established team structure

Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience

• Big 4 training background
• Experience with alternative investment funds (AIFs)
• Knowledge of investment trust tax and regulatory environment
• Previous experience in interim or maternity cover roles

Your Reward

• Competitive salary with performance bonus scheme
• Generous pension contribution
• Full healthcare cover
• Health cash plan
• Life assurance
• Buy/sell annual leave scheme

Additional Information

People who thrive at LawDeb make the most of this foundation to grow themselves, help us improve and have fun playing their part in building the culture that's fuelling our growth.

LawDeb hires people based on personal merit and qualifications regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background or any other protected attribute. We celebrate the diversity of our colleagues and provide an inclusive environment so you can bring your true self to work. We recognise that our people are our strength and the diverse talents they bring to our global workforce are directly linked to our success. If you feel that you require any reasonable adjustments to be able to participate in this recruitment process, please provide further details where prompted.