Job Description
Accounting and Business Manager job in Ipswich - above market salary
Hays are working with a Top 10 firm in Ipswich to source an Accounting and Business Manager for their growing team.
As a Manager, you will take ownership of a client portfolio, leading the preparation and review of accounts while ensuring compliance with relevant standards and deadlines. You will manage and develop a team, oversee workflow planning, and act as a trusted advisor to clients on a range of financial and business matters.This is a key role within the team, focused on delivering high-quality client service while contributing to the ongoing growth and development of the practice. Key ResponsibilitiesClient & Portfolio Management
* Manage a portfolio of clients, acting as the main point of contact
* Build strong relationships, understanding clients’ businesses, objectives, and challenges
* Lead year-end accounts discussions and identify opportunities to provide additional advisory services
* Respond to client queries independently and proactively
Team Leadership & Development
* Manage and support a team, ensuring effective workflow planning and delivery
* Review work produced by junior team members, providing constructive feedback and coaching
* Allocate work effectively, encouraging development through challenging assignments
* Support recruitment, interviews, and development of junior staff
Service Delivery & Compliance
* Oversee the preparation and review of statutory accounts and financial reporting
* Ensure all work is completed in line with accounting standards and internal procedures
* Manage deadlines across the portfolio to ensure timely delivery
* Maintain high levels of accuracy and attention to detail
Commercial & Operational Management
* Monitor WIP and ensure timely billing, addressing any recoverability concerns
* Challenge fee levels in line with job recovery and commercial performance
* Contribute to proposals, tenders, and fee quotes to support new business generation
* Drive efficiency improvements and adopt new technologies where appropriate
Core CompetenciesClient Focus
* Strong understanding of client needs, markets, and business environments
* Ability to identify opportunities to add value and support business growth
* Confident in managing client relationships independently
Technical Excellence
* Maintains strong technical knowledge of accounts and business advisory services
* Able to interpret financial results and provide meaningful commercial insight
* Shares knowledge with the wider team and contributes to training initiatives
Leadership & Commitment
* Takes ownership of team performance and workflow planning
* Identifies skills gaps and supports ongoing development initiatives
* Demonstrates enthusiasm and actively contributes to team and firm-wide activities
Technical Skills
* Preparation and review of statutory and consolidated accounts
* Ability to interpret financial data, including working capital and cash flow
* Experience preparing and reviewing forecasts and projections
* Strong understanding of VAT, including partial exemption and reverse-charge
* Ability to identify and explain prior period adjustments
* Experience advising on financial performance and business planning
* Exposure to group structures, consolidations, and reliefs desirable.
Key Behaviours
* Strong decision-making skills and confidence in managing responsibility
* Ability to challenge existing processes and drive continuous improvement
* Encourages independent thinking within the team
* Demonstrates integrity and alignment with firm values
Qualifications & Experience
* ACA, ACCA or equivalent qualified (or qualified by experience)
* Proven experience within an accountancy practice environment
* Demonstrable experience managing client portfolios and leading teams
* Strong technical accounts and advisory background
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to lead a portfolio and play a key role in team development
* Exposure to a broad range of clients and advisory work
* Clear progression pathway within a growing practice
* Supportive and collaborative working environment
What you need to do nowIf you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.#4800866