Business Services Manager

BKL is a Top 40 accountancy and advisory business supporting a diverse client base, from entrepreneurs and high‑net‑worth individuals to ambitious owner‑managed businesses and multinational groups. With a legacy spanning over 130 years, we’ve evolved into a modern, purpose‑driven business that balances profit with impact. We are a certified B Corp and a member of DFK International, delivering cutting‑edge expertise and a personal touch to clients locally and internationally.

The Manager’s role is to lead the delivery of ABS services, ensuring all work meets required standards and statutory obligations. You will lead our first ABS Pod in Newcastle, with overall accountability for performance, team development, collaboration, client relationships and strategic guidance.

How You’ll Make a Difference

• Review complex management accounts.
• Review and oversee complex VAT returns, including cross‑border transactions and partial exemption calculations.
• Deal with larger audited entities.
• Ensure necessary year‑end adjustments are made before statutory accounts are prepared.
• Manage cross‑department relationships with ABS, Audit and Personal Tax Teams.
• Manage a team that acts as a finance function for multiple businesses.
• Maintain relationships with overseas parent companies and subsidiary entities.
• Review statutory accounts when required.
• Manage a varied portfolio of clients, meeting deadlines and developing relationships.
• Manage staff workload and support portfolio management.
• Ensure bespoke client service and regular process reviews.
• Challenge trainees and provide continuous development and feedback.
• Support the Business Services Director with client management, Xero subscriptions and ad hoc tasks.
• Identify opportunities for new services and cross‑selling within the firm.
• Review current procedures and streamline processes.

You'll Be Ideal for This Role If You Have

• Qualified accountant ACCA/ACA/CIMA or equivalent.
• Excellent knowledge of Xero and Sage.
• Excellent knowledge of VAT rules.
• Excellent knowledge of cloud accounting software and accounting standards.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines.
• Statutory accounts experience preferred.
• Experience dealing with HMRC on a regular basis.
• Understanding of postponed VAT accounting.
• Keeping up to date with VAT and accounting changes (e.g., FRS 102).
• Excellent interpersonal and team working skills.
• Approachable with a strong work ethic.
• Ability to lead by example.
• Proactive with good problem‑solving skills.

Our Values

• Think Big – Be curious, brave, and open to new ideas.
• In It Together – Collaborate, care, and build an inclusive culture.
• Take Pride – Strive for excellence and believe in your impact.
• Do the Right Thing – Act with integrity, honesty, and fairness.
• Enjoy It – Bring your whole self to work and have fun doing it.

Working With Us: Your Benefits, Wellbeing & Development

• Private Medical Insurance (PMI) – including mental health cover, hospital treatment & 24/7 GP access.
• Health Cash Plans – covering everyday costs such as dental, optical & physiotherapy and an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Pension scheme – helping you save for retirement in a tax‑efficient way.
• Group Life Assurance – financial protection for your loved ones.
• Cashback & savings portal – discounts across hundreds of high‑street and online retailers.
• Cycle to Work Scheme – tax‑free bike and accessories purchase.
• Electric Vehicle Scheme – sustainable transportation options with roadside support.
• Free Mortgage Advice – expert guidance for your home‑buying journey.
• Season Ticket Loan – support with travel expenses.
• Enhanced Family Leave – generous leave policies.
• Holiday Entitlement – generous entitlement increasing with promotion.

Development & Growth

• Clear development pathways and progression frameworks.
• Professional qualification support – including study time and funding.
• Internal mentoring, coaching and buddying schemes.
• Leadership development programmes.
• Regular check‑ins and performance conversations focused on goals.

Compliance & Equal Opportunities

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, you will be required to undertake GDPR training to fully understand regulations and ensure all work is carried out in a compliant manner. BKL is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates eligible to work in the UK.