Client Accounting Manager

We invite you to review our current business services professionals openings to learn about the opportunities available across the firm.

About Us

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients' legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world's major financial centers.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Client Accounting Manager to join our Firm.This position will be based in our Chicago office (hybrid).This position is responsible for managing and overseeing the daily activities related to billing and collections within the Client Accounting Department. The role includes supervising staff, optimizing workflow processes; supporting partners with billing and collection challenges, managing accounts receivable, preparing client bills, and generating customized reports and charts. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Client Accounting

• Develop and maintain deep knowledge of Firm processes and applications (e.g., Aderant, MS Office) as they relate to Client Accounting.
• Ensure smooth day-to-day operations and optimal departmental function.
• Create and maintain workflow processes, departmental goals, and objectives for assigned staff.
• Keep billing and collection information on the Slate system current.
• Handle complex billing and client analysis projects.
• Review and resolve outstanding billing issues.
• Analyze reports to identify trends and develop effective billing/collection strategies.
• Meet with partners to discuss goals, objectives, and issues.
• Communicate with clients on behalf of partners as needed.
• Document meetings/discussions with partners for follow-up actions.
• Prepare bills, internal forms, and backup documentation, write-offs, transfers, retainer/on-account applications, and follow up on processing.
• Communicate evolving situations to senior management and suggest solutions.

General Managerial Responsibilities

• Stay current on Firm policies, industry trends, and professional development for staff.
• Participate in interviewing, selection, and training of staff.
• Oversee department projects, daily operations, and long-term planning.
• Monitor time, attendance, overtime, and expenses for compliance.
• Use performance management processes to set expectations, monitor, coach, and address unsatisfactory performance.
• Provide guidance and instruction to underperforming billers.
• Advise staff on escalation of critical or sensitive billing matters.
• Guide staff in problem resolution and initiate disciplinary procedures with HR as needed.
• Recommend and implement guidelines to improve efficiency, customer service, and employee relations.
• Develop and communicate departmental guidelines and procedures.
• Ensure timely and accurate responses to service requests.
• Engage in strategic planning, develop departmental goals, and support objectives.
• Provide ongoing coaching and collaborate on quality improvements.
• Identify training needs and assist in developing training courses.
• Recommend and implement procedural changes to management.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Manage Firm resources responsibly and comply with Firm policies.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of Client Accounting procedures, trends and techniques
• Proficiency with Firm computer systems (Aderant, MS Office) and ability to learn new systems
• Understanding of Firm and department operations, policies, and procedures
• Experience with annual budget processes
• Strong managerial, analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive/confidential matters
• Ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and delegate work
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Discretion, good judgment, and initiative
• Flexibility to travel and adjust work hours as needed

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum of eight years of directly related experience in a law firm or professional services environment including five years of supervisory experience and experience with Aderant or similar accounting software applications. Experience should include demonstrated success in leading others, problem solving, resolving conflicts, and developing effective work relationships with employees at all levels.

Culture & Life at Skadden
What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us. We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life.

• Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
• Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid leave options, including parental.
• In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
• Robust well-being classes and programs.
• Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

For further details, please visit: https://www.skadden.com/careers/staff/employee-benefits

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer (Disability/Vet/other protected categories). For more information, please visit Skadden.com/careers.

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details. Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other-job related factors, consistent with applicable law.

Salary Details

EEO Statement

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.

Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Alex Taylor at (212) 735-2176.

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Skadden Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law

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