At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams to deliver exceptional client work in trusts and estates.
- Company: Join BKL, a top accountancy firm committed to sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private medical insurance, and generous holiday entitlement.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with clear development pathways and a focus on inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in trust and estate tax returns; leadership skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 52000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid Working – Cardiff CF11 or Newcastle NE1 (Minimum 3 days in office)
Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 35-hour week
Reporting to: IHT, Trusts & Estates Senior Manager
Salary Range: £32,000 - £52,000
Please note: We're open to hiring at a more junior level for the right person. Candidates with relevant experience who may not yet be at Assistant Manager level are encouraged to apply, with salary and level determined based on experience and capability.
About BKL
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 proud to be a certified B Corp, reflecting our commitment to sustainability, transparency, and responsible governance. As a member of DFK International, we support clients locally and internationally with cutting-edge expertise and a personal touch. We believe all clients deserve the same level of care, innovation, and excellence.
Your Opportunity
As an IHT, Trusts & Estates Assistant Manager, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating and leading teams to ensure the effective delivery of client work. You will support the management of varied client portfolios through a team of supervisors, seniors, and trainees, while also contributing to departmental resource planning. Your responsibilities will include maintaining high levels of client satisfaction, communicating the firm’s strategic direction as set by the Executive Committee, and supporting managers with recruitment and people-related processes. You will also be involved in preparing and reviewing trust and estate accounts and tax returns, drafting forms IHT400 and IHT100, and producing advisory work for both UK and international trusts. In addition, you will actively contribute to wider departmental strategy and business objectives.
How You’ll Make a Difference
- Organise teams as needed, managing the progress, delivery of the team’s work and reporting to senior leadership/stakeholders
- Assist with/directing work on varied client portfolios of clients through a team of supervisors, seniors and trainees
- Participate in departmental resource planning
- Assist the heads of department in implementing departmental budgets and new initiatives; sharing technical knowledge via supervisors with seniors and trainees
- Ensure clients are satisfied with the service they’re receiving from BKL
- Articulate the direction of the firm as set by the Executive Committee
- Develop the experience of building the department through People processes by supporting managers with recruitment.
- Ensure that the client base is informed of technical updates that may affect their affairs
You’ll Be Ideal for This Role If You Have:
- ACA/CTA/TEP, but QBE also considered
- Leadership experience
- Experience with trust and estate Tax Returns and accounts
- Experience of drafting advisory work (to be reviewed by more senior level)
- Ability to take action and can start to direct people
- Capability to support vision and strategy, and build trust
- Commerciality awareness
We know you have a lot to offer, which is why we give you the freedom to thrive, no matter who you are or what your background is.
Our Values
At BKL, we live by five core 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
At BKL, we’re committed to creating a people-first workplace where everyone can thrive. We offer a carefully curated benefits package, wellbeing support, and meaningful development opportunities that empower you to grow your career.
Snapshot of our Benefits Package
We’ve designed a flexible, sustainable set of benefits to support your life at work and beyond:
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI)– including mental health cover, hospital treatment & 24/7 GP access
- Health Cash Plans– covering everyday costs like dental, optical & physiotherapy and an Employee Assistance Programme
- Pension scheme– helping you save for retirement in a tax-efficient way
- Group Life Assurance– peace of mind with financial protection for your loved ones
- Cashback & savings portal– discounts across hundreds of high-street and online retailers
- Cycle to Work Scheme– spread the cost of a new bike and accessories tax-free
- Electric Vehicle Scheme– sustainable transportation options that include roadside support and servicing
- Free Mortgage Advice– expert guidance for your home-buying journey
- Season Ticket Loan– support with travel expenses
- Enhanced Family Leave– generous leave policies for family-related needs
- Holiday Entitlement– generous entitlement which increases with promotion
Development & Growth
We don’t just offer jobs, we support careers:
- Clear development pathways and progression frameworks
- Professional qualifications support– including study time and funding
- Internal mentoring, coaching, and buddying schemes
- Leadership development programmes to help you grow with us
- Regular check-ins and performance conversations– driven by your goals, not just metrics
Take Your Next Step
Ready to grow your career with a company that balances ambition with purpose? Apply today and discover how far you can go at BKL.
Our recruitment process typically involves three stages:
- An introductory Teams call with our Talent Acquisition team.
- A first-stage interview with two team members.
- A final interview at our office, including a tour to give you a feel for our working environment.
Compliance & Equal Opportunities
In addition to the responsibilities listed above, you will be required to undertake GDPR training in order to fully understand the regulations and ensure all work is carried out in a compliant manner. As part of any recruitment process, BKL collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants. BKL is committed to being transparent about how it collects and uses that data and to meeting its data protection obligations. BKL is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates eligible to work in the UK.
We know you have a lot to offer, which is why we want to give you the freedom to thrive no matter who you are or what your background is. You will have every opportunity to use your creativity in how you approach your work and the support to innovate. Inclusion, diversity, and talent development are a fundamental aspect of who we are, and we welcome applications from candidates who share and champion these values. You will play an integral part in helping to make BKL a great place to work with a sense of belonging for everyone.
High challenge, high support
If you enjoy problem-solving and a fast-changing environment, you will thrive in this role. As in all BKL roles, you will be able to take a flexible approach: balancing independent work with teamwork, and remote working with time in the office with colleagues.
We’re proud to be one of the few Certified B Corporations in the accountancy sector. In joining us, you’ll become part of a business that’s committed to balancing profit and purpose.
Take your next step
If this sounds like the role for you, we’d be delighted to discuss the career you could build at BKL. By applying, you consent to the processing of your personal data for recruitment purposes, in line with UK GDPR. Your information will be used securely, only for recruitment, and won’t be shared without your consent.
IHT, Trusts & Estates Assistant Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: BKL
BKL is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, offering a hybrid working arrangement that promotes work-life balance. With a focus on employee growth, you will have access to ongoing training and development opportunities, alongside a competitive salary and commission structure that rewards your contributions to the company's success in the vibrant London market.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land IHT, Trusts & Estates Assistant Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like BKL. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace IHT, Trusts & Estates Assistant Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to BKL.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on BKL's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at BKL
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with BKL.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at BKL will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former BKL employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
