Sonnenschein Nath & Rosenthal LLP is a premier national full service law firm, with hundreds of lawyers in numerous U.S. locations as well as an international presence, and a global reach throughout the Americas, Asia and the Middle East. The firm serves the legal and public interest needs of many of the world's best-known and most admired businesses, nonprofits and individuals. Sonnenschein is a leader in the law firm industry as noted by our rank in the Am Law 100 list and the fact that several of our offices have been recognized as “Best Places to Work” in their respective communities.
The firm is currently recruiting for a Financial Analyst for our Chicago office. Under the direction of the Manager of Financial Planning and Analysis, this position will assist in the planning, development, implementation and monitoring of the Firm's annual operating and capital budgets as well as, assist in the firm's financial planning and analyses activities. This includes enhancement and development of existing and future financial planning models and decision tools, monitoring actual financial performance against plan objectives and preparation of various management reports and performance summaries. This position requires demonstrated skills in quantitative financial analysis and budgetary control, with a thorough working knowledge of general accounting principles and practices. Qualified candidates must possess a high level of motivation, initiative and leadership potential.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Coordinates the development and implementation of the annual operating and capital budgets and interim forecasts.
Assist in the development of annual revenue and cost estimates for use in the annual budget and interim forecasts.
Prepare in-depth costs and profitability analyses and assist in development of pricing and break-even models for new and existing business.
Support and work directly with the management team in the analyses and monitoring of financial forecast and key financial statistics.
Analyze budget and forecast variables from departments for conformance with conventional procedures, policies and organizational objectives.
Evaluate and analyze key business drivers and financial results and advise management of variances, risks, and opportunities.
Work closely with department heads in the preparation of monthly forecasts and analyze trends for various practice groups.
Monitor financial trends and budgeted/forecast revenues and expenditures to ensure responsibility and control are maintained.
Analyze actual operating results throughout the year as compared to budget and projected performance.
Respond to special requests for financial data and analyses and for information on current and proposed projects and programs. Interprets results and formats to facilitate decision-making.
Perform cost-benefit analysis to assess program tradeoffs.
Examine past and current budgets and forecasts for financial and economic developments that have an affect on the organization's spending habits, priorities and financial resources.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Experience in, or knowledge of, accounting and accounting principles sufficient to prepare complex and detailed financial and budgetary analyses and to address a variety of firm/ department issues or budgetary problems.
Strong problem solving and demonstrated analytical skills that allow for interpretation of budgetary, financial, and related management information.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Strong organizational skills to work independently and to prioritize a heavy workload under the pressure of competing assignments.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Ability to respond flexibly and positively in all circumstances, and to work calmly under pressure.
Ability to exercise good judgment and discretion, especially with regards to sensitive or confidential personnel or organizational matters.
Excellent computer skills and experience using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Word. Must possess ability to use these tools to present data clearly and concisely.
Knowledge and/or experience in using database query tools.
Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting. MBA or CPA preferred.
Minimum 4-6 years of Accounting and / Financial Analysis experience.
Law firm experience a plus.
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package. Applicants should specify position of interest on the subject line and e-mail a resume and cover letter, including salary history to: careerssonnenschein.com
We are an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer