At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a diverse client portfolio and deliver top-notch accounting and advisory services.
- Company: Top 40 accountancy firm with a modern, people-first culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical insurance, flexible working, and professional development support.
- Other info: Enjoy excellent career progression and wellbeing initiatives.
- Why this job: Join a collaborative team and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong client management and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 58000 £ per year.
A well-established, Top 40 accountancy and advisory firm with a strong heritage and a modern, purpose-driven outlook is seeking a Business Services Manager to support the growth of its Business Services offering. The firm works with a diverse client base ranging from entrepreneurs and owner-managed businesses to larger, complex and international groups. Known for its collaborative culture, commitment to sustainability and people-first values, this organisation offers an environment where high performance is balanced with wellbeing and development.
As Business Services Manager, you will take ownership of a varied client portfolio and lead the delivery of high-quality accounting and advisory services. This is a key leadership role, responsible for managing a growing Business Services “pod” within a hybrid working environment based in Cardiff. You will act as the main point of contact for clients, providing high-level advice, overseeing complex accounting and VAT matters, and ensuring all statutory and regulatory requirements are met. Alongside client delivery, you will manage and develop a team, encourage collaboration across departments, and help identify opportunities to enhance services and streamline processes.
Key responsibilities include:
- Reviewing complex management accounts and statutory accounts
- Overseeing complex VAT returns, including cross-border and partial exemption matters
- Managing clients with audited entities and complex group structures
- Ensuring timely and accurate year-end adjustments
- Leading and developing a team, managing workloads and supporting progression
- Acting as a trusted advisor to clients, including overseas parent companies
- Working closely with audit, tax and other internal teams to deliver joined-up solutions
- Identifying opportunities for additional services and cross-selling
- Reviewing and improving processes to drive efficiency without compromising service quality
What you'll need to succeed:
- Qualified accountant (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent) with strong technical expertise and proven experience managing client portfolios
- Excellent knowledge of Xero, Sage and cloud accounting systems
- Strong understanding of VAT, including postponed VAT accounting
- Up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards such as FRS 102
- Experience dealing with HMRC and managing multiple deadlines
- Statutory accounts experience (preferred)
- Proven people management and leadership capability
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with the ability to lead by example
What you'll get in return:
- Competitive salary of £52,000 - £58,000
- Comprehensive benefits package and a flexible, hybrid working model (35-hour week with flexitime)
- Private medical insurance and health cash plans
- Pension scheme and group life assurance
- Enhanced family leave and generous holiday entitlement
- Professional qualification support and structured development pathways
- Leadership development, mentoring and coaching opportunities
- Wellbeing initiatives and employee discount schemes
- A collaborative, inclusive culture with genuine career progression
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Business Services Manager - Cardiff employer: Hays
Join a leading Top 40 accountancy and advisory firm in Cardiff, where a collaborative culture meets a commitment to sustainability and employee wellbeing. As a Business Services Manager, you'll enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while making a meaningful impact on a diverse client portfolio. With a focus on career progression and a supportive environment, this is an excellent opportunity for those seeking a rewarding and fulfilling career in accountancy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Services Manager - Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you showcase why you're the perfect fit for their team during the interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it relates to the role of Business Services Manager. Highlight your leadership skills and ability to manage client portfolios effectively.
✨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 about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Services Manager - Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Business Services Manager role. Highlight your qualifications, especially in accounting and client management, to show us you're the perfect fit!
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 aligns with our values. Don’t forget to mention your experience with cloud accounting systems like Xero or Sage.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've developed teams or improved processes in previous roles to demonstrate your capability.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around accounting standards like FRS 102 and VAT regulations. Be ready to discuss complex management accounts and how you've handled similar situations in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams and developed talent. Highlight your ability to lead by example and foster a collaborative environment, as this role requires strong people management capabilities.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research the firm’s commitment to sustainability and its people-first values. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their collaborative culture.
✨Prepare for Client Scenarios
Think about potential client scenarios you might face in this role. Prepare to discuss how you would act as a trusted advisor, manage client expectations, and identify opportunities for additional services.
