In the latest in our mini-series "Empowering Excellence" we spoke to Sam Griffin, Legal Finance Supervisor at Furley Page, about her experience as a member of the ILFM, how it helps her in her role and what she enjoys most about being part of the ILFM community. 

Sam Griffin, Legal Finance Supervisor, Furley Page

1. Can you tell us a little about your role at Furley Page?

I am the Legal Finance Supervisor within a six-person Finance team at Furley Page LLP. Within my role at my firm, I deal with a variety of different work including day-to day client transactions; banking of cheques; processing BACS and CHAPS payments; checking completion statements; billing for clients; processing credit notes; dealing with write-offs for WIP, bills, disbursements and expenses; dealing with firm direct debit payments and credit accounts; purchase ledger and firm expenses. I also deal with general queries throughout the firm - our Finance team works across the whole of Furley Page and therefore I can deal with a range of different queries depending on the different work types.

I also provide training within the team as well as a brief introduction into the Finance system and structure at Furley Page for all new starters. I am involved with the firm’s month-end and year-end procedures and assist the Finance Manager with day-to-day tasks as well as overseeing the team in her absence. 

2.  What motivated you to join the ILFM and how has it helped you so far?

Initially my motivation to join the ILFM was more of a preference from Furley Page but once joining I can definitely see why the firm would like each Finance team member to be a part of the ILFM. I am currently working on the Associates qualification, after undertaking the Diploma qualification, and in all parts of both courses the ILFM has helped me gain a greater understanding and further my knowledge of the work I carry out. I have been part of the ILFM all the way through from a Trainee Legal Cashier up to the point I am today and at each step it has helped to grow my insight of not only everyday work, but also the crux of running a law firm. 

3. What benefits do you think membership of the ILFM provides?

By being a member of the ILFM you can benefit from the support network provided through the expertise of their staff, knowing that there is someone to help you with advice or to answer your questions when you require some assistance. Not only do you have the support of the ILFM staff, but you can meet other individuals with roles within the same profession, for example at the ILFM conferences and training courses, allowing you to expand your network. Being a member of the ILFM is also well-regarded and recognised throughout the profession. 

4. Do you use any of the resources that the ILFM offers in your day-to-day work?

One resource that comes in very handy is the VAT guide issued by the ILFM, I have used this many times!

5. Can you give me any examples of how the membership has made an impact on your business?

The membership has impacted our business as it provides continuous training to our Finance team, as well as providing crucial information on current issues, changes within legal finance and challenging topics such as expenses, disbursements and VAT . The knowledge provided helps us to understand and deal with these topics, keeping the firm compliant.  

6. What opportunities for professional development do you think the ILFM offers and why are they helpful?

As mentioned, I have been able to work my way up through Furley Page from a Trainee Legal Cashier to my current position of Legal Finance Supervisor, which the ILFM has helped me achieve. The Diploma course, alongside working at Furley Page, taught me the basics of Legal Cashiering and the importance of the Accounts Rules. By continuing to study with the ILFM on the Associates course, I have been able to implement the knowledge and experience I have acquired, to obtain a greater understanding of what is required to run a law firm. For example, I have a better understanding of why budgets etc are so important to a business and why these should be prepared properly. 

7. Have you attended any training or networking run by the ILFM and did you find it useful?

I have attended various training sessions by the ILFM including the Fundamentals of Legal Cashiering, SRA Accounts Rules, VAT & Disbursements as well as the Exam Preparation Sessions held for each of the qualifications. I have found all sessions to be very useful especially if any changes or guidance has been made, then the sessions help clarify any queries.

8. Have you attended our annual conferences and if so what value did they add to your role? 

I haven’t managed to attend an in-person conference yet but have attended virtually a few times. At the conferences you can hear from a few speakers throughout the day who specialise in various things such as software, SRA and risk management all of which is interesting to have a brief understanding of how that plays into my role – essentially expanding my understanding of the business as a whole a little bit further.

9. Would you recommend membership to your contacts?

Yes, I would recommend the membership to contacts. Furley Page promote the ILFM memberships within the Finance Team, encouraging all new members of the team to join and study within the ILFM.

10. Can you sum up what you gain from the ILFM in three words? 

Know-how, capability, support