Human Capital Partners are working with a growing, advisory focused, accounting and financial services firm to recruit their Senior Client Manager. This role reports directly to the Managing Partner and will focus on delivering world-class advice and support to entrepreneurs and SME business leaders across the UK. The Senior Client Manager will lead a team of capable, training accountants and will manage the output of the offshore team based in India.

The Senior Client Manager is a senior client-facing role within the General Practice division of our Business. The Senior Client Manager will take day-to-day and long-term responsibility for an assigned portfolio of SME clients. Not only will they lead the delivery of our core compliance, accounting and tax offerings, but will take responsibility for developing the client relationships and managing the portfolio commercials. They will work closely with a team of accountants and other specialist teams across the Business, to provide clients with expert financial guidance, comprehensive business support and the right know-how when they need it.

Service Delivery:

As the primary point of contact for clients, you will lead advisory engagements across various business support services. You will manage your own diverse portfolio of clients from a range of sectors, providing accounts and tax services, with increasing involvement in tax and business advisory work as the role progresses. You will work closely with partners and senior staff, contributing to the strategic direction of the firm and driving client satisfaction. This role offers a supportive and collaborative environment with ample opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Reporting and Analysis:

• Prepare and review financial statements, including profit and loss, balance sheet, and cash flow statements, ensuring compliance with current relevant standards (FRS102, FRS102 1A, FRS105), UK GAAP, IFRS, and other applicable regulations. Meeting deadlines.
• Perform financial analysis to identify trends, variances, and provide key insights.
• Maintain and develop client relationships, delivering high-quality service and advice.

2. Tax Compliance:

• Ensure timely and accurate submission of VAT returns, PAYE, NIC, and Corporation Tax filings.
• Support tax planning strategies and assist with HMRC audits and inquiries.

3. Client Audit Support:

• Provide support for external auditors by assisting with preparation and promptly addressing any audit-related inquiries.

4. Team Leadership and Development:

• Serve as line manager for the accounts team, overseeing workflow processes, assigning tasks, and ensuring professional development.
• Mentor and support junior accountants, ensuring high-quality work and adherence to compliance standards.
• Review financial accounts prepared by the team to ensure accuracy and alignment with regulations.
• Develop and optimise internal processes, improving efficiency and team performance.

5. Ad-Hoc Financial Projects:

• Contribute to financial system implementations and spearhead process improvements.

6. Technical Expertise:

• Research and apply the latest accounting standards and tax regulations to ensure compliance, particularly in year-end processes.

7. Client Engagement and Advisory:

• Present financial statements to clients, providing clarity and addressing any questions they may have.
• Offer tailored solutions and strategic advice to help clients navigate complex financial and business challenges.

This role requires strong leadership, technical accounting expertise, and a client-focused mindset. You will have the opportunity to shape both client outcomes and team development, while contributing to the overall growth and success of the firm.

Client Management

• Act as the senior point of contact for your assigned portfolio of clients, managing and nurturing the ongoing relationship.
• Quickly address and resolve delivery issues, coordinating with internal teams and senior leadership as necessary.
• Oversee the commercial management of client engagements, ensuring proper fee management and handling billing or debtor-related issues in a timely manner.

Business Development

• Identify and seize opportunities to provide additional value to existing clients, helping them solve more complex problems and expanding the company’s commercial relationship.
• Collaborate with teams across the firm, including tax specialists, finance function advisors, and financial planners, to deliver integrated service offerings.
• Contribute to new client pitches, assisting with the preparation of proposals and participating in business development initiatives.

Key Skills and Requirements

Education and Qualifications:

• A finance or accounting qualification (e.g., ACCA, ACA, CIMA, CFA, etc.).
• University degree (preferred but not essential for candidates with strong relevant experience).

Skills:

• Advanced spreadsheet skills in Excel and Google Sheets, including pivot tables, lookups, advanced formulas, and chart creation.
• Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS, and familiarity with core business taxes and day-to-day compliance (VAT, corporation tax, payroll).
• Proficient with accounting software (e.g., Xero, Sage, or similar) and, in particular, a strong working knowledge of Xero.
• Strong analytical, communication capabilities and exceptional presentation and communication skills, both written and oral.
• Outstanding time management, with the ability to oversee multiple tasks and projects concurrently.
• A solid understanding of the key financial metrics involved in managing a P&L and balance sheet, with a focus on commercial decision-making.