At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise operations in a dynamic, purpose-driven accountancy firm.
- Company: Top 50 accountancy and advisory firm with a modern, inclusive culture.
- Benefits: 28 days annual leave, hybrid working, private medical insurance, and more.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team focused on collaboration, innovation, and integrity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving strategic alignment and operational excellence.
- Qualifications: Senior operational leadership experience in professional services or regulated environments.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced operational leader looking for a high-impact internal role within a progressive, purpose-driven environment? Do you thrive on driving strategic alignment, operational excellence, and continuous process improvement across multi-disciplinary professional services teams? If so, this unique opportunity to lead and future-proof the Accounts & Business Services function at a highly respected accountancy and advisory business could be your next definitive career move.
This Top 50 Firm is a modern, forward-thinking business that successfully balances profit with positive impact. Boasting a rich heritage, the firm supports a highly diverse client base ranging from ambitious entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals to owner-managed businesses and multinational groups. Operating from modern offices in London, they foster an inclusive, high-performance culture rooted in collaboration, innovation, and integrity.
As an ABS Operations Director you will:
- Align the ABS team structure, capacity, and operating model with overall strategic goals, ensuring seamless collaboration across service lines and internal departments.
- Drive continuous improvement and innovation across workflows, systems, and delivery models to optimise operating margins and elevate the client experience.
- Oversee forecasting, capacity utilisation, and pricing insights to ensure client work is delivered profitably, sustainably, and at scale.
- Establish, embed, and review robust quality controls and risk management frameworks to safeguard technical accuracy and strict compliance with professional standards.
- Partner with the People and Culture team to spearhead performance management, succession planning, and the leadership development of Pod Leaders and future talent.
As the successful candidate you will:
- Demonstrate significant senior operational leadership experience within a professional services or regulated environment, ideally overseeing an accounting, outsourcing, or multi-service function.
- Possess a proven track record of managing large, multi-disciplinary teams, with an ability to successfully design and embed scalable processes that support commercial growth.
- Exhibit strong commercial acumen with direct experience managing budgets, boosting department profitability, and translating high-level strategy into practical operational delivery.
- Hold exceptional stakeholder management and influencing skills, allowing you to partner effectively with Partners and senior leadership to drive cross-departmental accountability.
Note that a professional accountancy qualification is not required for this position; candidates with stellar operational transformation expertise from across professional services are highly encouraged to apply.
What You’ll Receive:
- 28 days annual leave
- Hybrid working pattern
- Core working hours of 10am–4pm
- Private medical insurance
- Season ticket loan
- Group life assurance
ABS Operations Director employer: Austin Rose Associates
Join a Top 50 Firm in London that champions a progressive and purpose-driven work environment, where operational excellence meets meaningful impact. With a commitment to diversity and collaboration, this modern accountancy and advisory business offers exceptional employee growth opportunities, including leadership development and performance management initiatives. Enjoy a competitive benefits package, including hybrid working, private medical insurance, and generous annual leave, all while contributing to a culture rooted in innovation and integrity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land ABS Operations Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. This Top 50 Firm is all about collaboration and innovation, so think of examples from your past that showcase how you embody these traits.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your operational leadership experience aligns with their goals. Highlight your successes in driving strategic alignment and continuous improvement – they’ll want to hear about it!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace ABS Operations Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the job description. Highlight your operational leadership experience and any relevant achievements that align with the role of ABS Operations Director. We want to see how you can drive strategic alignment and operational excellence!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and driving continuous improvement.
Showcase Your Commercial Acumen:In your application, be sure to highlight your experience with budgets and profitability. We’re looking for someone who can translate high-level strategy into practical operational delivery, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Austin Rose Associates
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the firm's values, culture, and recent achievements. Understanding their commitment to balancing profit with positive impact will help you align your answers with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Highlight your ability to drive strategic alignment and operational excellence, as these are key aspects of the ABS Operations Director role.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle real-world challenges in operational management. Think about situations where you've implemented process improvements or managed budgets effectively, and be prepared to share those stories.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
Since this role involves partnering with senior leadership, prepare to discuss how you've influenced stakeholders in previous roles. Share examples that showcase your ability to foster collaboration and accountability across departments.