VP Expense Management, Client Accounting

The Panel is working exclusively with a global client to source a hi-caibre Vice President, Expenses/ Client Accounting. This individual will lead the firm’s fund expense operations, overseeing the end-to-end process of budgeting, invoice processing, accrual management, and expense reporting for a diverse portfolio of funds. This is a highly visible role that requires strategic oversight, deep expertise in fund expense management, and a strong commitment to operational excellence and client service. You will manage a team of professionals, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and drive continuous improvements in expense-related workflows and controls.

The role

• Oversee the full lifecycle of fund expense processing, including budgeting, invoice approval, accruals, and payments.
• Ensure timely and accurate payment processing and compliance with fund-level and regulatory requirements.
• Manage complex vendor relationships and ensure service-level agreements are met.
• Direct the preparation and review of fund-level budgets and forecasts in coordination with portfolio managers and other internal stakeholders.
• Perform variance analysis between budgeted and actual expenses, and provide insights to senior management.
• Develop tools and methodologies to improve budgeting accuracy and transparency
• Establish and maintain strong internal controls around fund expense activities, including documentation, approval workflows, and reconciliation processes.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, fund prospectus guidelines, and regulatory standards.
• Oversee audits and coordinate responses to auditors and regulators related to expense and client accounting.
• Identify opportunities to enhance efficiency through automation and system improvements.
• Lead or support the implementation of financial systems and workflow tools that support the expense function.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal teams, fund administrators, and external auditors regarding expense-related matters.

The candidate

• Degree qualified in Accounting, Finance or related arae. Accounting quaification is desirable.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in expense management or financial reporting/fund accounting (includes expense management)
• Proven track record in managing and mentoring teams
• Familiarity with workflow and automation tools for invoice and budget processing.