At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead audit engagements and ensure compliance while driving growth in Birmingham.
- Company: Join PKF Smith Cooper, a top independent accounting firm in the Midlands.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on personal growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape the future of our audit practice and make a real impact in a vibrant city.
- Qualifications: ACA/ACCA qualified with RI status and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
Location: Birmingham
Salary: Dependent on experience
PKF Smith Cooper is one of the Midlands’ leading firms of independently owned accountants and business advisors. We pride ourselves on delivering more than just technical expertise; we build trusted, long-term relationships that make a real impact. Behind that success is a team of talented, forward-thinking individuals, each playing a key role in shaping the future of the businesses and people we support. We have ambitious plans for the future, including a goal to double in size over the next five years. As part of this, Birmingham remains a key growth location, and we are continuing to invest in strengthening our audit leadership capability in the region.
This is a key senior hire for the firm, offering the opportunity to play a central role in shaping and growing our audit presence in Birmingham, supported by a strong brand, client base and wider network. As a Partner, you'll play a significant role in shaping the future of our audit practice and the wider firm, bringing your voice, ideas and leadership to the strategic decisions that drive the partnership forward.
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Audit Partner to play a leading role within our Birmingham audit team. This is a senior position suited to an experienced Director ready to step up, or an existing Partner looking for a new opportunity. You will be responsible for leading audit engagements, ensuring regulatory compliance and quality, while also supporting the continued growth of the audit function locally. Working closely with Partners and the wider leadership team, you will contribute to strategic direction, client development and team progression. This role combines technical leadership with commercial awareness, offering a balance of delivery, leadership and business development.
The Skills and Experience You Will Bring
- ACA / ACCA qualified (or equivalent) with RI status
- Proven experience in a senior audit role within a practice
- Strong technical audit knowledge and a commitment to quality
- Strong leadership skills with experience in developing teams
- Commercial awareness and an interest in contributing to growth
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Suitable for an experienced Director or an existing Partner
Why PKF Smith Cooper?
Our company culture, built on our values – Engage, Empower and Excel – encourages initiative, personal growth, and collaboration. Every team member is appreciated and celebrated; a notion embodied in our Kudos Reward Scheme. The firm’s Partners, who remain actively invested in the development of employees, will both support and champion your professional development and progression. We work with ambitious businesses of different sizes across a variety of sectors, so no two jobs are the same. We are multi-award-winning accountants and business advisors, ranked the 13th biggest firm by UK fee income in the Accountancy Age Top 50+50.
Why Birmingham?
In the heart of the vibrant city, our new, state-of-the-art office boasts a contemporary open plan working area, on-site gym with lockers and shower facilities, and a large roof terrace perfect for taking in the views of the city. Our Birmingham office is easily accessible via train, being adjacent to Snowhill Train Station and only a 10-minute walk from New Street Station.
PKF Global
As an active member of PKF Global, we are part of a large global network of legally independent accounting firms. Located in the 5 fastest-growing global markets, we have ground presence in 150 countries and span across many jurisdictions. An ambitious, future-focused network, PKF provides a comprehensive range of services. Operating in unison with member firms across the world, we are able to share our ideas, expertise, and specialist resources to better serve our clients, delivering highly-personalised services and global connectivity through our client-centric culture.
How to apply?
If you believe you meet our requirements, we encourage you to apply! Even if you don’t meet 100% of the criteria, please submit your application. To do so, upload your CV and a cover letter to our job portal. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to a member of the People team. Please note that we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds; however, we are unable to accept applications from candidates who require a visa to work in the UK. Also, we kindly ask that recruitment agencies refrain from contacting us unless we have directly reached out to you.
Audit Partner (RI) in Birmingham employer: Smith Cooper Limited
PKF Smith Cooper is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises engagement, empowerment, and excellence. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative environment, team members are celebrated for their contributions through initiatives like the Kudos Reward Scheme. Located in the vibrant city of Birmingham, our state-of-the-art office provides modern amenities and easy access to transport, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to grow their careers while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Audit Partner (RI) in Birmingham
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
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Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Smith Cooper Limited. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Audit Partner (RI) in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Smith Cooper Limited.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Smith Cooper Limited's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Smith Cooper Limited
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Smith Cooper Limited.
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✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Smith Cooper Limited will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Smith Cooper Limited employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.