Managing law firms’ cash flows in the post-Covid era – what to do if the cashflow goes wrong 
Mike Stevenson, Iceberg, will discuss: major reasons why Iceberg might turn down an application for funding; what firms can do to put things right and make Iceberg more likely to accept an application; what is the approach taken by the clearing banks; how do Iceberg differ from the approach taken by the clearing banks; and the effect that the change in the Crown Preference rules in an insolvency may have on a bank relationship.

Quantuma
Andrew Hosking and Sean Bucknall from Quantuma will provide an update on the trends that they are currently seeing within the sector and the warning signs reporting accountants should look out for with regards to viability. The session will look into what happens when an administrator is appointed, a look at the key stages and processes that Quantuma follow when brought into a distressed law firm
And what are the metrics /approach for sale of assets from firms that have ceased trading?

Insurance Outlook
John Krunzel from Marsh will talk about claims trends and professional indemnity insurance costs for law firms, and how to prepare for renewal. Red flags and signals, on the path to run-off and restructuring. Lessons learned from Halliwells and other closures, as well as lessons learned on key risk exposures: ransomware and identity fraud, fractional development/investment schemes. Controls assurance, partner independence and ultimate margin – three key differences between accounting and legal mindsets.

Break

Panel: Post Covid Sate of Play
In these ‘Post COVID ’ times, this Q&A session with Marsh, Iceberg, Quantuma and the SRA will give delegates some insight into when things are/will go wrong and the different implications for lenders, insurers and the regulator. 

Basis Period Reform 
James Kipping, Tax Partner at MHA, will take a look at the impact of the reforms to tax basis periods set to be introduced in 2023/24, including practical examples.

Lunch

Performance and Productivity
In this session, Graham Moore, Founder and Managing Director at Katchr, will share some of his learnings and observations from helping law firms with their practice management, with a particular focus on how data can lead to better decision making and improved outcomes. The talk will cover the following key themes, which he and his business Katchr are promoting across the UK legal sector: aligning KPIs with business objectives – measurement beyond fees and time; using measurement to drive activity and results – sMart Objectives with a capital M; leading and lagging indicators – why, if both are needed is one is rarely used?

Break

Employee Recruitment and Retention
In this session, consultant Michelle Howard explores how professional service sector firms can attract and retain the best talent in a highly competitive recruitment market through mobilising their brand. Michelle looks at the current recruitment challenges that are facing the professional service industry today and brings a fresh approach with a marketing edge.