Audit & Accounts Manager in Belfast

Our client is a well-established and growing independent accountancy practice based in Ballymena. The firm provides a comprehensive range of accounting, audit, taxation and business advisory services to a diverse portfolio of owner-managed businesses, SMEs, charities and not-for-profit organisations throughout Northern Ireland.

Due to continued growth, the practice is seeking to appoint an experienced Audit & Accounts Manager to join its leadership team.

The Opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified accountant to take ownership of a varied portfolio of clients while leading audit assignments, managing a team of trainee and qualified staff, and supporting the firm's continued development. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining high service standards, developing client relationships and contributing to strategic growth initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Audit
  • Manage and oversee a portfolio of audit clients across a range of sectors.
  • Plan, coordinate and review audit assignments from planning through to completion.
  • Ensure audits are delivered within agreed deadlines and budgets.
  • Review audit files and financial statements prepared by junior team members.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the audit process.
  • Identify and communicate key audit findings and recommendations.
• Accounts & Advisory
  • Review year-end accounts prepared under applicable accounting standards.
  • Provide accounting, business and financial reporting advice to clients.
  • Assist clients with management accounts, budgeting and forecasting requirements.
  • Support partners in delivering value-added advisory services.
• Team Management
  • Lead, mentor and develop junior and part-qualified staff.
  • Review work completed by team members and provide constructive feedback.
  • Assist with staff training, performance management and resource planning.
  • Promote a collaborative and professional working environment.
• Client Relationship Management
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with existing clients.
  • Identify opportunities to expand services within the client portfolio.
  • Attend client meetings and provide commercially focused advice.
  • Support business development initiatives and networking activities.

Candidate Requirements

• ACA, ACCA or equivalent qualified accountant.
• Proven experience within an accountancy practice environment.
• Strong audit and accounts preparation experience.
• Experience managing client engagements and reviewing staff work.
• Excellent communication and client relationship management skills.
• Strong organisational and project management abilities.
• Proficient in accounting and audit software packages.

Desirable

• Previous experience managing a team.
• Knowledge of FRS 102 and UK audit regulations.
• Experience working with SMEs, owner-managed businesses and charities.
• Business development experience.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Clear progression opportunities within a growing practice.
• Exposure to a diverse and interesting client portfolio.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• On-site parking.
• Professional development and continuous training.
• Flexible working arrangements where appropriate.

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion regarding this opportunity, please contact: Gabriel Hamill Principal Consultant | Hays Recruitment Specialist in Accountancy Practice & Tax Recruitment across Northern Ireland.

Ideal Candidate Profile

This position would suit an ambitious Audit Senior, Assistant Manager, Practice Manager or existing Audit & Accounts Manager who is seeking greater responsibility and the opportunity to play a pivotal role in the continued success of a respected Ballymena accountancy practice.