Overview
The Chief of Staff to the CFO is a strategic partner, trusted advisor, and liaison who enhances the effectiveness of the CFO and the Finance leadership team. The role serves as a force multiplier—driving execution of key initiatives, ensuring operational alignment, and managing communications and priorities across the firm.
Responsibilities
Strategic Support :
- Assist the CFO in developing and executing strategic initiatives across the Finance department and the broader firm.
- Translate strategic goals into actionable plans and ensure timely execution across departments.
- Prepare briefing materials, presentations, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.
- Conduct research and analysis to support decision-making on financial, operational, and industry matters.
- Lead special projects and cross-functional initiatives involving Finance, Accounting, IT, Legal Operations, and Practice Management.
Project Management :
Lead or support cross-functional projects involving Finance, Accounting, IT, and other departments.Track progress on key initiatives and ensure timely execution of deliverables.Coordinate with internal teams and external consultants as needed.Operational Oversight :
Monitor and manage the CFO's priorities, ensuring alignment with firm-wide goals.Draft communications on behalf of the CFO, including memos, emails, and talking points.Attend meetings with or on behalf of the CFO, capturing action items and ensuring follow-through.Manage the CFO's agenda, ensuring alignment with firm priorities and strategic objectives.Facilitate decision-making by preparing briefing materials, synthesizing data, and coordinating stakeholder input.Monitor progress on key initiatives and ensure accountability across the Finance team.Stakeholder Engagement :
Serve as a liaison between the CFO and senior leadership, practice group leaders, and administrative departments.Build relationships across the firm to facilitate collaboration and information flow.Support the CFO in managing relationships with external stakeholders, including auditors, banks, and vendors.Team & Culture Enablement :
Support internal communications and change management efforts related to financial operations.Foster a culture of collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement within the Finance department.Non-Essential Functions :
Work on projects as assigned by the Firm Chair, Firm Vice Chair, and CFO.Complete other duties as assigned.Trusted to act as an extension of the CFO's office with integrity and professionalism.Qualifications
Bachelor's degree required; MBA, CPA, or other relevant advanced degree strongly preferred.5+ years of experience in finance, consulting, legal operations, or executive leadership support, ideally within a law firm or professional services environment.Proven ability to lead complex projects and influence senior stakeholders.Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with Elite 3E and Power BI a plus.Success Factors
Executive Presence & Influence :
Represent the CFO with professionalism and credibility in high-level meetings.Communicate with senior partners, board members, and external stakeholders with confidence and tact.Influence without authority—guiding teams and driving initiatives through collaboration.Emotional Intelligence :
High self‑awareness and empathy to manage relationships and read the room effectively.Handle sensitive information and navigate firm politics with discretion.Build trust across diverse teams and personalities.Strategic Thinking :
See the big picture while managing details.Anticipate challenges, identify opportunities, and align day‑to‑day operations with long‑term goals.Comfort with ambiguity and change in a dynamic legal and financial environment.Communication Mastery :
Draf executive‑level materials with clarity.Distill complex financial and operational concepts into actionable insights.Active listening and facilitation of productive dialogue across departments.Organizational Agility :
Strong project management and prioritization skills to juggle multiple initiatives.Adapt quickly to shifting priorities and manage time effectively.Resourcefulness in removing roadblocks for the CFO and Finance team.Collaboration & Relationship Building :
Create cross‑functional partnerships with Legal Ops, IT, HR, and Practice Management.Align and share ownership of strategic initiatives.Bridge departments and leadership levels as a connector.Confidentiality & Judgment :
Discretion in handling sensitive financial and personnel matters.Sound judgment in decision‑making and advising the CFO on internal dynamics.Work Environment
Base in Washington, DC with at least 3 days in office per week.Willingness to work staggered schedule as required.Availability to work beyond regular hours and under tight deadlines.Non‑smoking environment.Compliance with all safety requirements.Salary & Benefits
The anticipated base salary range for this position is $135,000–$160,000. The actual base salary offered will depend on the applicant's experience and qualifications.
Steptoe offers a full range of benefits for you and your eligible dependents : medical, dental, vision, life, disability, dependent care, health care flexible spending accounts, 401(k) Plan, Profit‑Sharing, Paid Time‑Off, and a robust Wellness Program.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Steptoe LLP is an equal opportunity employer EOE / AA / Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, mental or physical disability, genetic information, or any basis proscribed by applicable statutes.
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