Financial Analyst (Law Firm)

Company Description

Shipman & Goodwin LLP is a full-service law firm committed to helping clients achieve their goals through tailored legal solutions. With over 160 attorneys across offices in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, the firm serves a diverse range of clients, including public and private companies, government entities, non-profits, and individuals. Known for its client-focused approach, Shipman’s team invests significant time in understanding each client’s unique circumstances to provide effective and strategic counsel. The firm excels in navigating complex business transactions, resolving disputes, and supporting organizational growth.

Position Summary

The Financial Analyst supports the financial planning, budgeting, and analytical functions of a law firm. This role partners closely with the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis to deliver data-driven insights that inform firm leadership decisions, optimize profitability, and support strategic growth initiatives.

*Candidates can choose to work out of our Hartford, Stamford, or Boston offices.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

·      Prepare and maintain financial models, forecasts, and budgets in coordination with the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis.

·      Analyze attorney and practice group profitability, including revenue, realization rates, utilization, and billing trends.

·      Develop monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for firm management and practice group leaders.

·      Support the annual budgeting process, including revenue projections, expense forecasting, and headcount planning.

·      Monitor actual financial performance against budget and forecast, identifying variances and recommending corrective actions.

·      Conduct ad hoc financial analyses to support strategic initiatives such as lateral hiring decisions, practice group expansion, and office investments.

·      Assist with partner compensation modeling and analysis as directed.

·      Collaborate with the accounting team to ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data.

·      Prepare presentations and dashboards for firm leadership, executive committee, and practice group chairs.

·      Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to law firm operations, including leverage ratios, billing rates, and collection metrics.

·      Support the development and maintenance of financial systems, reporting tools, and business intelligence platforms.

Qualifications

Education:

·      Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field required.

·      MBA or CFA designation preferred.

Experience:

·      Minimum of 3–5 years of financial analysis experience, preferably within a professional services or law firm environment.

·      Experience with SQL

·      Experience with law firm financial metrics and economic models strongly preferred.

Skills and Competencies:

·      Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including financial modeling, pivot tables, and complex formulas.

·      Experience with legal industry financial systems (e.g., Aderant or similar practice management software) preferred.

·      Proficiency with business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI) preferred.

·      Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with attention to detail and accuracy.

·      Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.

·      Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

·      High degree of discretion and professionalism in handling confidential financial information.

·      Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across departments.

Physical Requirements and Work Environment

·      Primarily sedentary office work with extended periods at a computer.

·      Occasional extended hours during budget cycles, month-end close, and fiscal year-end.

Compensation and Benefits

Shipman & Goodwin LLP offers a competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.