It is common for chambers to have a chief executive but not a finance director. But the increasing demands placed on chambers by the Bar Standards Board, Bar Council and Legal Services Board along with commercial pressures to behave in a more corporate manner are encouraging CEOs to look to a finance director to support them in managing chambers operations.
I have experience of working in the barrister environment and taking responsibility for compliance and regulatory matters, together with complaints and office administration.
I am able to contribute to the financial and operational strategy of the set, including developing the budget and a long-term financial and business plan. I have experience of delivering these within a barrister led environment and in a manner that encourages engagement and understanding.
I am used to reporting on a regular basis to barristers within management committees and general meetings.
I have managed the finance function along with fee collection, IT HR and facilities management and have improved both quality and timely manner of financial reports.
I can improve the fees collection process and introduce strategies to reduce the level of debt and the associated administrative burden.