Financial Systems Specialist

Overview

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP (Blakes), one of Canada’s largest and most successful law firms, is currently looking for a Financial Systems Specialist to join the Information Technology (IT) department in Toronto. Reporting to the Manager, Financial Systems, the Financial Systems Specialist will be responsible for creating and implementing systems solutions, maintaining the functionality and integrations of existing information systems, and supporting users of the Firm’s financial systems and certain management information systems. The role researches, develops and deploys technology solutions to meet business needs, provides technical support and troubleshooting, and helps ensure the stability, security and performance of the Firm’s financial systems environment.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Researching, developing and implementing new or improved technology solutions to meet business objectives, considering the impact and implications on other systems
• Developing and maintaining complex SQL queries, stored procedures, views and functions
• Performing SQL Server administration and system maintenance
• Providing technical support to the end-user community
• Assisting with the implementation and testing of system upgrades and software patches from vendors
• Diagnosing, troubleshooting and resolving technical issues to ensure appropriate solutions are implemented in a timely manner, including engagement of various IT teams and external vendors
• Working collaboratively with the IT security team, ensuring that all development and production servers are regularly updated and in compliance with the Firm’s security protocols
• Assisting with regular systems audits, user-access reviews and data cleanups

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field is required
• Minimum of four years of experience working with financial/accounting information systems, designing technical solutions and providing overall technical support, with proven experience in process-improvement and automation-related projects
• Experience working with Aderant or Elite accounting software, Chrome River, Intapp Time would be an asset
• Experience in developing custom dashboard and reporting solutions involving SQL and Power Apps, including Power BI and Power Automate, would be an asset
• Experience in cloud-related solutions using Microsoft Azure Data Services and Boomi would be an asset

Skills & Abilities

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical and critical thinking skills
• Working knowledge of SQL scripts, Python, VB, Power Automate, Power BI, SSIS and SSRS
• Strong understanding of system disaster recovery concepts
• Ability to work collaboratively with Finance, Information Technology and other business services departments throughout the Firm
• Detail-oriented, with the ability to complete work under pressure and with minimal supervision
• Familiarity with data consolidation and integration technology and strategies is an asset
• Ability to exercise judgment in analyzing business requirements, identifying system-related issues and determining appropriate solutions

Compensation

The anticipated annual salary for the Financial Systems Specialist position is $100,000 - $120,000. Salary levels will be determined commensurate with internal equity, market equity and experience.

Other Relevant Application Information

Blakes welcomes applications from all qualified applicants. The Firm is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment composed of people with diverse perspectives, backgrounds, identities and cultures. The Firm provides accommodation for applicants with disabilities and in respect of other protected grounds during the recruitment process in accordance with applicable laws. Please contact us to request accommodation. While our experienced team will select and interview successful candidates, Blakes may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assist with shortlisting, screening and evaluating applications.

About Blakes

At Blakes, we care about our people. We are committed to providing exceptional experiences for our clients and employees. As a winner of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Canada’s Best Diversity Employers and Greater Toronto’s Top Employers awards, we understand the importance of fostering an inclusive workplace environment that brings out the best in each person. Our success as a firm starts with hiring top talent, retaining our people and helping them thrive.