Finance Manager

Company Description

For 70 years, our firm has been a trusted legal partner across North and South Carolina, delivering strategic defense, practical counsel, and results that matter. With five offices and deep industry experience, we bring insight, efficiency, and collaboration to complex claims and litigation. Our culture is built on respect, transparency, and open dialogue—where firm leadership and the administrative team work closely together to drive innovation and shared success.

Job Description

The Finance Manager provides strategic financial leadership and serves as a trusted advisor to the Managing Partner, Firm Committees, and Firm leadership. Working closely with the Controller and administrative leadership, this role supports financial planning, performance management, pricing strategy, and firm-wide financial operations to ensure long-term financial strength and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership & Strategy

• Serve as a strategic partner to Firm leadership by providing financial analysis, insights, and recommendations.
• Support the development, monitoring, and management of the Firm’s annual budget, forecasts, and financial targets.
• Analyze client and matter performance to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for growth and improved profitability.
• Prepare and present key performance indicators and financial reports to partners and Firm leadership.

Pricing & Profitability Management

• Collaborate with partners and practice groups to develop strategic pricing models, including alternative fee arrangements (AFAs).
• Analyze matter profitability, staffing models, and resource utilization to support cost-effective service delivery.
• Provide guidance to partners on pricing strategy, AFA negotiations, and matter economics.

Financial Operations & Oversight

• Partner with the Controller to support billing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and benefits operations.
• Monitor firm-wide financial performance, cash flow, and liquidity.
• Maintain strong internal controls, policies, and procedures to ensure financial integrity.

Reporting, Systems & Compliance

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements, management reports, and analyses.
• Collaborate with the Controller and IT leadership to enhance financial and business intelligence systems.
• Coordinate annual audits and support tax planning, compliance, and reporting in partnership with external advisors.

Vendor & External Relationships

• Manage relationships with key vendors, financial institutions, and service providers.
• Evaluate vendor performance, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure contract compliance.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Support the development of the accounting team and promote a collaborative, professional work environment.
• Attend partner and management committee meetings and contribute to agenda development and decision-making.
• Participate in firm-wide initiatives and special projects aligned with strategic priorities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive finance leadership experience; law firm or professional services experience strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field required; CPA, MBA, or similar advanced credential preferred.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, financial modeling, and performance analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with senior leadership and influence decision-making.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; experience with Aderant and SQL preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and strong executive presence.

Additional Information

Work Environment:

• Indoor Office Setting
• This position offers the ability to work in office or remotely.

Benefits:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life
• Short-term Disability
• Long-term Disability
• HRA
• FSA
• 401K
• Pet Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• 3 weeks of PTO

Benefit Conditions:

• Waiting period may apply
• Only full-time employees eligible

Ability to commute/relocate:

Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work.

Hedrick Gardner is committed to the equal employment opportunity of all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal law.