At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage external audit assignments, guiding junior staff and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
- Company: Established accountancy practice in Preston with a focus on growth and client satisfaction.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear career progression, and diverse client exposure.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and enhance your audit skills while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Must have UK accountancy practice experience and strong external audit background.
- Other info: Full right to work in the UK is required; sponsorship not available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re working with established and growing accountancy practices across Preston who are adding headcount in their external audit teams due to continued client demand. This opportunity is suited to audit-trained accountants currently working in UK practice who want strong audit exposure, varied clients, and clear progression within a professional firm.
The Role
- Plan, run, and finalise external audit assignments from start to completion
- Lead onsite audit teams and supervise junior staff during fieldwork
- Assess controls, test audit areas, clear review points, and deliver high-quality files
- Act as the day-to-day contact for clients during audits
- Work closely with Managers, Senior Managers, and Partners on audit delivery
- Undertake some accounts or compliance work where required; however external audit remains the core focus
Typical audit split ranges from 70–100% external audit, depending on role and firm.
What We’re Looking For
- Current UK accountancy practice experience is essential
- Strong external audit background (internal audit is not relevant)
- ACA or ACCA qualified, finalist, or part-qualified with solid audit experience
- Experience working with SME to mid-market clients
- Comfortable leading audits and supervising junior team members
- Good working knowledge of UK GAAP and exposure to IFRS is beneficial
Levels Covered
- Audit Senior
- Assistant Manager
- Audit Manager
(Salary and responsibility aligned to experience and qualification.)
Right to Work
- Full right to work in the UK is required
- UK passport or valid long-term visa essential
- Sponsorship is not available
Apply
Apply with your CV or message for a confidential discussion.
External Audit Senior / Manager Preston employer: Skills Coalition
Contact Detail:
Skills Coalition Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land External Audit Senior / Manager Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the audit field. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and soft skills. Practice common interview questions related to external audits and think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your leadership and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, whether in person or virtually, make sure to highlight your strong audit background and any specific achievements. Tailor your pitch to reflect how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications this way!
We think you need these skills to ace External Audit Senior / Manager Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your external audit experience and any relevant qualifications like ACA or ACCA. We want to see how your background fits with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about external audit and how your experience aligns with what we’re looking for. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Leadership Skills: Since the role involves leading audit teams, make sure to mention any experience you have in supervising junior staff or managing audits. We love to see candidates who can take charge and guide others!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skills Coalition
✨Know Your Audit Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK GAAP and IFRS. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these standards in your previous roles, especially in external audits. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but can also implement it practically.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since you'll be leading audit teams, prepare examples of how you've successfully supervised junior staff in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your capability to manage and mentor others effectively.
✨Client Interaction is Key
As the day-to-day contact for clients during audits, it's crucial to highlight your communication skills. Prepare to discuss how you've built relationships with clients and handled any difficult situations. This will show that you can maintain professionalism while ensuring client satisfaction.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in real audit situations. Practice articulating your thought process and decision-making steps. This will help you convey your analytical abilities and how you approach complex audit tasks.