At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead client accounts, provide proactive tax advice, and mentor a dynamic team.
- Company: Boutique accountancy practice with a focus on quality and client relationships.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and 31 days' holiday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a growing practice while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: ACA/ACCA qualified with 5+ years' experience in UK practice.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working environment with opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 100000 £ per year.
As Accounts & Tax Director / Head of Client Accounts you will blend technical quality with practical advisory, mentor a small team, and act as the trusted first point of contact for businesses across an SME network.
What you will do:
- Own and lead a portfolio of SME groups and HNWIs, providing proactive, value-adding advice.
- Lead the preparation and review of personal tax returns for a varied client portfolio, including company directors, high-net-worth individuals, partnerships, and sole traders.
- Review & sign-off statutory accounts (FRS 102/105), management packs, VAT and corporation tax returns prepared by the team.
- Coach and develop seniors, assistants and trainees: workflow planning, reviews, actionable feedback, and CPD support.
- Partner with Tax/Audit on complex matters; liaise with banks, lawyers and regulators where required.
- Scope & deliver advisory projects (cashflow, structuring, systems, royalties/rights and one-off assignments).
- Help refine processes and support practice growth, onboarding and BD initiatives.
What you will bring:
- ACA or ACCA qualified, typically 5+ years' PQE in UK practice.
- Strong review experience across statutory accounts, management reporting, VAT and corporation tax.
- Proven experience managing personal tax compliance and advisory work within a practice setting.
- Confident with FRS 102 (FRS 105 useful; IFRS exposure a plus).
- Personal Tax knowledge.
- A track record of portfolio leadership and developing people.
- Client-first communication: you translate technical into practical, timely actions.
- Comfortable with modern practice tools (e.g. Xero, CCH, IRIS, Sage, QuickBooks, MS 365).
Rewards:
£90,000 – £100,000 base + performance bonuses (twice yearly). 31 days' holiday.
Accounts & Tax Director in Kingston upon Thames employer: Magpie Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Magpie Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts & Tax Director in Kingston upon Thames
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to accounts and tax. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence. Remember, it’s all about showcasing your expertise and how you can add value to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. So, what are you waiting for? Get your application in!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts & Tax Director in Kingston upon Thames
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Accounts & Tax Director role. Highlight your ACA/ACCA qualifications and relevant experience in managing personal tax compliance and advisory work. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention your experience in leading teams and your client-first communication style. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm for the position!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills, especially with tools like Xero, CCH, and IRIS. We’re looking for someone who can blend technical quality with practical advisory, so make sure to mention any relevant software experience.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply 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 important updates from us. Good luck!
How to prepare for a job interview at Magpie Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Accounts & Tax Director, you'll need to demonstrate your technical expertise. Brush up on key financial metrics and tax regulations relevant to SMEs and HNWIs. Be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be mentoring a team, so highlight your experience in coaching and developing others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, provided actionable feedback, and supported professional development.
✨Client-Centric Communication
This role requires translating complex technical information into practical advice for clients. Practice explaining intricate tax concepts in simple terms. Think of scenarios where you’ve done this effectively and be ready to share.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling specific client situations or complex tax matters. Prepare by thinking through potential challenges you might face in the role and how you would approach them, especially in collaboration with other departments.