Peter Cooper

Peter Cooper

As the Chief Finance and Operating Officer at GSC, Peter “wears many hats.” The most important of these is his role on the GSC main board where he advises on strategic, financial, and other key objectives at an operational level.

“I articulate the financial impact of strategic choices to the partners,” he explains. “I give them a view of how a decision we make – bringing in a new partner, for example, or establishing a new department – will affect profitability, cashflow and the balance sheet both present and future.   I act as a liaison between the firm and its financial stakeholders.”

Additionally, Peter supports the successful day-to-day operation of the business. Internally, that includes everything from managing indemnity insurances and telephone systems to leading the admin and finance teams – “It’s a hand-on firm; we all have to play our part,” he observes.

Externally, Peter’s vast experience gained over 30 years in London’s financial sector enables him to facilitate introductions and build relationships between the firm and the City.  It’s an advantage few law firms of similar size can boast – and one that enables us to add even greater value for clients.

Ensuring compliance

Peter is GSC’s money laundering compliance officer (MLCO), operating alongside the company’s reporting officer (MLRO).  “This is an important step for GSC to segregate the roles,” he says.  “It’s right that a firm of this size should have two strategic hires in place to ensure money laundering compliance”.  Such appointments provide reassurance to both the Solicitors Regulation Authority and our clients that we are operating appropriately.”

Financial rigour

It’s no so long ago that a non-lawyer CFOO was all but unheard of in the industry. Peter believes the shift has been for the better. “I bring a chartered accountant’s skillset and perspective to the board”.  Peter gives the decision makers confidence that the assessment of the effects of strategic and operational actions are done from a position of authority and experience.

Peter enjoys the contrast of his current role to his previous experience. “I’ve come from an advisory background, but here I’m not advising on it, I’m doing it. I find that rewarding.”

A former footballer, Peter is a committed West Ham season ticket holder.

Qualifications & Experience

Peter is a Fellow Chartered Accountant, registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. Previously a partner in one of the UK’s top 10 accountancy firms (where he led a national team of restructuring experts), Peter has been working with the GSC Board since 2019.