Client Accounting Manager

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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