At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a diverse portfolio of SME clients and support Partners with advisory opportunities.
- Company: Established firm of Chartered Accountants known for a supportive, family-like culture.
- Benefits: Discretionary bonuses, annual salary reviews, and flexible hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative team and shape your career path towards directorship.
- Qualifications: ACA or ACCA qualified with experience in managing client portfolios.
- Other info: Enjoy a stable environment with excellent staff retention and growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Client
Our client is a long-established and highly regarded firm of Chartered Accountants and business advisers based in North London. With circa 50 years of history, they have built a reputation for delivering a personal, relationship-led service to owner-managed businesses and private clients across a wide range of sectors. The firm supports clients with audit, statutory accounts, tax compliance, payroll, cloud accounting and specialist advisory services. Known for their stability and low staff turnover, they offer a supportive, collaborative environment, and client centric approach.
The Role
Owing to continued growth, the firm is seeking an Accounts Senior Manager to join its Accounts department. This is a key position offering exposure across multiple Partners and a broad portfolio of SME and owner-managed clients (typically under £10m turnover). The portfolio can be shaped around the successful applicant's strengths and interests, providing variety and genuine client engagement.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Manage a varied portfolio of SME and owner-managed clients
- Allocate outsourced work and maintain smooth workflow delivery
- Provide feedback and coaching to ensure high-quality output
- Act as a key point of contact for client queries
- Support Partners with ongoing client service and advisory opportunities
- Prepare and/or review statutory accounts under FRS 102 and FRS 105
- Review reconciliations, lead schedules and draft accounts
- Assist in the delivery of management accounts
- Oversee basic tax compliance work linked to your accounts portfolio
- Liaise with internal tax specialists when required
- Review work prepared by UK and offshore team members
The role sits within a collaborative Accounts and Audit function, supported by Managers, Senior Managers and Partners in the UK. The firm works closely with offshore teams, and has done this for many years, providing excellent resource support and structured workflow processes.
The firm's tech stack includes CCH for accounts and tax, Xero for bookkeeping (with openness to Sage and QuickBooks), and Karbon for workflow management.
The Successful Applicant
In order to be a genuine contender for this role, applicants must be able to demonstrate current working knowledge in a chartered accounting environment, with the following background:
- ACA or ACCA qualified (essential)
- Experience managing SME / owner-managed business portfolios
- Comfortable reviewing work and supervising junior team members
- Confident communicator, both internally and with clients
- Able to commute easily to North London
What's On Offer
The firm has a superb reputation with their client base and with staff retention, with many staff members citing that it feels 'like a second family'. There is a real chance for progression to directorship if that is the path desired, or if not, then the chance to sit in a great role with the following:
- Discretionary annual bonus (December)
- Annual salary review
- Flexible hybrid working (typically 3 days office / 2 days home)
If this vacancy is of interest to you, then please apply or contact Jonathan from Absolute Recruit. However, if it is not right for you but you think it could be suitable for someone you know, please forward this on, as we operate a referral scheme with a donation to a charity of your choosing. Terms & Conditions apply.
Accounts Senior Manager in London employer: Absolute Recruit
Contact Detail:
Absolute Recruit Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Senior Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accounting world, especially those who might know someone at the firm. A personal introduction can make all the difference in getting your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding the firm's tech stack. Familiarity with CCH, Xero, and Karbon will show you're ready to hit the ground running!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Talk about how you've managed teams and supported junior members in the past. The firm values collaboration, so let them know you can contribute to that environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Senior Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Accounts Senior Manager role. Highlight your ACA or ACCA qualifications and any relevant experience managing SME portfolios. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about working with owner-managed businesses and how your background aligns with our client-centric approach. Keep it engaging and personal, just like our firm!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a key point of contact for clients, strong communication is essential. In your application, give examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients and team members in the past. We love seeing candidates who can connect with people!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application lands in the right hands. Plus, we’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Absolute Recruit
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially FRS 102 and FRS 105. Be ready to discuss how you've managed SME portfolios in the past and any specific challenges you've faced. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Manager, you'll be expected to supervise junior team members. Prepare examples of how you've provided feedback and coaching in previous roles. Highlighting your ability to lead and develop others will demonstrate that you're a great fit for their collaborative environment.
✨Communicate Confidently
Since this role involves liaising with clients and internal teams, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Think about how you can convey complex information simply and effectively. A confident communicator is key in building those important client relationships.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Tech Stack
Get to know the software they use, like CCH, Xero, and Karbon. If you have experience with similar tools, be prepared to discuss how you've used them to improve workflow or client service. Showing that you're tech-savvy will give you an edge in this digital age.