In our new mini-series "Empowering Excellence" we chat to some of the ILFM's members about the benefits they've enjoyed through their membership, how it helps them both in their role day-to-day and more strategically, and the resources they find most useful.
Bonnie McAvoy, Account Operations Manager, Jenner & Block
1. Can you tell us a little about your role at Jenner & Block and what it involves? 
I am the Accounting Operations Manager. I deal with the day-to-day tasks, including legal cashiering, accounts payable and billing management, preparation and submission of VAT return, PSA and P11D’s to HMRC, AR1 to the SRA and general management of the London finance function. I also ensure compliance with SRA and HMRC regulations. I assist with projects, which are both London and Chicago led, to ensure the London finance function runs efficiently.
2. What motivated you to join the ILFM and how has it helped you so far?
I became a member of the ILFM many years ago (possibly over 15!). Their training sessions first appealed to me and during this time I have attended many sessions which help me fulfil my day-to-day duties. More recently, the ILFM have provided some bespoke Solicitor’s Accounts Rules training to my colleagues in Chicago.
3. What benefits do you think membership of the ILFM provides?
Every employee of the IFLM I have dealt with over the years has been professional, competent and knowledgeable in the field. This provides members with all the support and guidance they need to fulfil their roles in Legal Accounting.
4. Do you use any of the resources that the ILFM offers in your day-to-day work?
Yes, the support page of the website offers handy guides for daily duties to include assistance with VAT and Solicitor’s Accounts Rules compliance.
5. Can you give me any examples of how the membership has made an impact on your business?
The ILFM have hosted two bespoke training sessions for our firm on the Solicitor’s Accounts Rules and COFA training. These sessions have been well presented and provided our Chicago finance team with a sound knowledge of the rules/COFA requirements that supports them in their London based duties. On both occasions I worked with the trainer to tailor the content of the session to best suit our needs.
6. What opportunities for professional development do you think the ILFM offers and why are they helpful?
The qualifications offered by the ILFM give people wanting to start a career in legal finance a great understanding of the field. The content is very practical and gives a proper insight into day-to-day life as a cashier/bookkeeper.
7. Have you attended any training or networking run by the ILFM and did you find it useful?
In addition to the bespoke training sessions, I have attended several ILFM training sessions in person and on Zoom. Both options provided in depth training. The sessions have been presented in an easy to understand context giving real life examples alongside the training which really helps to get the best out of the session.
8. Have you attended the ILFM annual conferences and if so what value did they add to your role?
I have attended several ILFM annual conferences, these events are great for networking and meeting the ILFM staff members. The content of the day is always beneficial, interesting, and varied.
9. Would you recommend membership to your contacts?
Absolutely!
10. Can you sum up what you gain from the ILFM in three words?
Support, knowledge and professionalism.
First published in Legal Futures 2024
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