Team Story – Kelly Openshaw
There's a sense of being part of a team. The Firm's management is approachable, and everyone helps each other out.
Q: Can you tell us what your role is at Butcher & Barlow?
A: I’m a legal cashier. I work in a team of four, alongside the accounts manager. We handle all the Firm’s accounts, including processing completion funds for property transactions, processing bills, bank reconciliations and more. Essentially, anything related to accounts comes through us first.
Q: Can you describe a typical day in your role?
A: Our day starts with balancing the bank accounts to ensure we have the necessary funds for transactions like property completions. We have a system where one person monitors incoming receipts, another processes payments, and we take queries from fee earners, including card payments. Our tasks can vary widely from day to day, depending on the workload. Some days, we might focus entirely on payments, while on others, we could be dealing with a mix of tasks.
Q: It sounds like your role is crucial for keeping the Firm running smoothly. Can you tell us more about the responsibilities and pressure you face?
A: Absolutely. There’s a lot of responsibility in this role. We deal with large sums of money, so accuracy is crucial. We must ensure funds are sent to the correct recipients and that all transactions comply with legal requirements. Checking bank details, verifying transactions, and adhering to Solicitors’ Accounts Rules are all part of the job. On busy completion days, the pressure can be high as we need to process transactions quickly and accurately.
Q: Was it necessary to have any specific qualifications when you first started your role?
A: When I started at Butcher & Barlow in 1997 as an office junior, it wasn’t really necessary to have specific qualifications. I’ve always had fantastic support from the Firm and over time, I gained experience and moved up within the accounts department. We do have in-house training, and some team members pursue qualifications like the ILFM diploma to enhance their skills.
Q: How long have you been with Butcher & Barlow, and have you seen any significant changes in your role or the Firm during your time here?
A: I originally started in 1997 and left in 2003 when I had my son. After that, I worked in a bank which was closer to home and just easier for me at the time. When I got made redundant, I reached out to Butcher & Barlow. I’d always kept in touch with my friends and ex-colleagues here and, luckily for me, there was a position available, and I returned in 2014. Over the years, I’ve witnessed substantial changes, especially in the way we handle transactions. We used to rely on paper records and postal services, but now everything is electronic and much faster. The job has become more immediate and up-to-date.
Q: How would you describe the culture at Butcher & Barlow, and how has it evolved over the years?
A: The culture at Butcher & Barlow has evolved positively over the years. The accounts department deals with every single area of the Firm in some way or other, so we know or speak with everyone. That’s why I enjoy things like the Christmas party. It’s nice to put a face to the voice at the other end of the phone or email. While we’ve always had a Christmas party, now there are more ways to feel appreciated and keep in touch too – the newsletter, pay day lunches, lots of little things that, when put together, make employees feel valued. There’s a sense of being part of a team. The Firm’s management is approachable, and everyone helps each other out.
Q: Can you tell us about the work-life balance at Butcher & Barlow?
A: The work-life balance has become more flexible, especially after the experience of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. I work from home one day a week, which helps with personal commitments. It’s all about finding the right balance that suits you and, in my experience, the Firm have always been flexible.
Q: Do you think the role of a legal cashier within a law firm differs significantly from a cashier in other types of organisations?
A: Yes, it’s a specialised role because of the specific rules and legal requirements related to solicitors’ accounts. Legal cashiers need to understand these rules and ensure compliance. It’s a unique skill set tailored to the legal sector.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?
A: I’d say the team I work with is fantastic. We have a great working relationship and support each other. Plus, we always have a good supply of biscuits in our office, we’re known for it throughout the Firm. It keeps us going on busy days!
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career as a legal cashier or within the firm?
A: Don’t give up and be open to learning. There are plenty of opportunities to progress and learn within the Firm. Legal cashiering isn’t always mentioned or suggested as a career. It’s a specialised but rewarding role that can be quite challenging but is also very satisfying.
Q: Finally, what are your career ambitions, both personally and within the firm?
A: I’ve worked hard to reach the level I’m at, and I’m open to working even harder and learning more. There are definitely opportunities for growth within the Firm, and I’d like to continue progressing and contributing to the team’s success.
My three words to describe Butcher & Barlow are: supportive, collaborative and friendly.