Practice Manager - Accountancy in Essex

Practice Manager – Accountancy Practice Location: Chelmsford, Essex Salary: £30000 - £35,000 per annum Employment: Full-time or part-time, Permanent or contract The Opportunity An established and growing accountancy practice is looking to appoint an experienced Practice Manager to take responsibility for the effective day-to-day management of the practice, with a particular focus on compliance, regulatory requirements, AML/KYC and internal processes . This is an important role within the practice and would suit an organised, commercially aware professional who understands the regulatory environment in which accountancy practices operate and is confident ensuring that robust procedures and controls are consistently maintained. A background within a private accountancy practice would be highly advantageous, as would previous experience working across compliance, practice administration and operational management. Key Responsibilities Oversee the practice's compliance framework , ensuring the business operates in accordance with relevant legislation, professional standards and regulatory requirements. Take responsibility for AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures, ensuring appropriate checks are completed, documented and regularly reviewed. Maintain and monitor client due-diligence records, including identification, verification and risk assessments. Ensure ongoing compliance with relevant AML, KYC and regulatory requirements , escalating concerns where appropriate. Monitor changes in legislation, regulation and professional guidance and ensure these are reflected in the practice's policies and procedures. Maintain and regularly review the firm's compliance policies, procedures and internal controls. Support the practice with client onboarding , ensuring appropriate checks and documentation are completed before work commences. Monitor client files and compliance records, identifying gaps and ensuring remedial action is taken. Assist with preparation for regulatory, compliance and professional-body inspections or reviews. Maintain appropriate registers, records and compliance documentation. Work closely with the partners/directors and wider practice team to promote a strong culture of compliance and good governance. Identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and administrative efficiency across the practice. Oversee and coordinate general practice administration and operational processes where required. Provide guidance and support to colleagues on compliance procedures and regulatory requirements. Ensure deadlines, procedures and internal controls are consistently followed. Deal professionally and confidentially with sensitive client and business information. About You The successful candidate is likely to have: Previous experience in a Practice Manager, Practice Administrator, Compliance Manager or similar role within an accountancy practice . Strong practical knowledge of AML, KYC and client due diligence requirements. Experience of working within a regulated professional services environment. A good understanding of the regulatory and compliance obligations applicable to accountancy firms. Strong organisational and administrative skills, with excellent attention to detail. The confidence to challenge processes and raise compliance concerns where necessary. The ability to interpret regulations and translate them into practical procedures. Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with partners, directors and staff at all levels. A proactive approach, with the ability to work independently and take ownership of responsibilities. High levels of integrity, discretion and confidentiality. Desirable Experience Experience of the following would be particularly beneficial: AML/KYC and enhanced due diligence Client onboarding and risk assessment Compliance monitoring and internal audits Professional-body regulatory requirements Practice management within an accountancy firm Companies House and related statutory compliance GDPR and data protection Internal policies, procedures and risk management Practice management/accountancy software What the Role Offers This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced accountancy practice professional to take ownership of an important operational and compliance function within an established practice. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a genuine contribution to the continued development of the practice, ensuring that its systems, processes and compliance framework remain robust as the business grows. If you have a strong private practice background and hands-on experience across AML, KYC and compliance, we would be very interested in hearing from you. TPBN1_UKTJ