Audit & Accounts Manager in Watford

Mellis Blue is seeking a knowledgeable and experienced Audit & Accounts Manager for a permanent position based in Bedfordshire. The successful candidate will have a strong background in UK GAAP, auditing, and accountancy practice, with a proven track record in managing a diverse client portfolio.

You will oversee the delivery of high-quality statutory accounts prepared under UK GAAP (FRS 102 and FRS 105), ensuring compliance with relevant standards. Additionally, you will manage audit assignments from planning through to completion, providing technical guidance, mentoring junior staff, and building lasting client relationships. Hybrid working is available, as well as an extensive benefits package.

Role Overview

The role involves managing a varied portfolio of audit and non-audit clients, overseeing the delivery of high-quality statutory accounts and audit assignments, and leading, developing, and mentoring junior team members. This is a key role within the firm, offering exposure to a broad client base and clear opportunities for progression.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Management
• Manage a diverse portfolio of audit (where applicable) and accounts clients, acting as the main point of contact.
• Team/Resource planning.
• Management of WIP and billing (in accordance with our internal KPIs).
• Efficient use of IT resources available.
• Client onboarding, engagement, and disengagement in conjunction with the admin team.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, providing a high level of service and technical support.
• Identify opportunities for additional services and assist partners with business development.
• Accounts
• Review statutory accounts prepared under UK GAAP (FRS 102 and FRS 105) and, where applicable, IFRS.
• Resolve technical accounting issues, escalating complex matters where appropriate.
• Ensure accounts are completed efficiently, within budget, and to a high technical standard.
• Ensure that files are complete and delivered to the Directors in a timely manner to enable Director review prior to client meetings.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards, ethical requirements, and internal firm procedures.
• Contribute to accounts quality initiatives.
• Keep up to date with changes in accounting and regulatory standards.
• Audit
• Plan, manage, and review statutory audit assignments from planning through to completion.
• Resolve technical auditing issues, escalating complex matters where appropriate.
• Ensure that files are complete and delivered to the Directors in a timely manner to enable Director review prior to fieldwork commencing (planning) and client meetings (completion).
• Ensure compliance with UK auditing standards, ethical requirements, and internal firm procedures.
• Contribute to audit quality initiatives and support internal and external monitoring visits.
• Keep up to date with changes in accounting, auditing, and regulatory standards.

ACA or ACCA qualified (or equivalent) with a minimum of 2 years post-qualification experience in a UK accountancy practice, including audit. Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP and UK auditing standards is required, along with experience managing multiple clients and deadlines. Proven ability to review and manage statutory accounts and audit assignments is essential, as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience with staff development and performance management is desirable, as is familiarity with accounting and audit software such as IRIS, CaseWare, or similar.

This role offers a competitive salary alongside a benefits package, hybrid and flexible working options, and clear pathways for professional development. Join a supportive and collaborative team committed to ongoing technical training and career growth, where your expertise in UK GAAP and auditing will be valued and expanded. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced audit professional looking to advance their career within a dynamic and forward-thinking practice.