Position: Head of Accountancy Practice
Location: UK-based, office-based role
Reports to: Managing Director
Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Accountancy Practice to lead and manage the day-to-day operations of our UK accountancy teams. This role is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of client service, efficient internal processes, and successful rollout of new technologies and compliance requirements.
The successful candidate will be a proven practice leader who can inspire and develop accountancy staff, support the sales process, and drive operational excellence across the practice.
Key Responsibilities
Team & Operations Management
* Lead, manage, and develop the accountancy staff across compliance and unlimited service teams.
* Ensure workloads are effectively allocated, deadlines are met, and client expectations are consistently exceeded.
* Conduct regular staff reviews, appraisals, and training plans to maintain high technical and service standards.
* Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the team.
Sales Support & Pricing
* Support the sales team by reviewing incoming leads and providing technical input where required.
* Prepare accurate and competitive pricing for prospective clients, balancing commercial growth with profitability.
* Assist with onboarding high-value or complex clients to ensure a seamless transition into the practice.
Client Relationship Management
* Act as an escalation point for client queries, service issues, and complaints, ensuring timely and satisfactory resolutions.
* Strengthen long-term client relationships by providing proactive advice and exceptional service standards.
* Oversee key client touchpoints such as year-end reviews, compliance deadlines, and technical queries.
Technology & Systems Rollout
* Lead the implementation and adoption of Akrio across the practice, ensuring smooth transition and staff training.
* Manage the practice-wide MTD ITSA rollout, including staff preparation, client communication, and process alignment.
* Monitor the effectiveness of technology solutions and recommend improvements to streamline efficiency.
Strategic & Performance Management
* Define and track KPIs for staff performance, client satisfaction, revenue growth, and operational efficiency.
* Work closely with leadership to set team and business objectives, ensuring alignment with the wider strategic vision.
* Identify areas for process improvement and implement changes to enhance client service delivery and profitability.
Other Duties
* Ensure compliance with professional standards, regulations, and internal quality controls.
* Support the development of new service lines or value-added client offerings.
* Represent the firm at industry events, networking opportunities, and with regulatory bodies where required.
* Contribute to business continuity planning and succession planning for key staff roles.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or equivalent).
* Proven leadership experience in an accountancy practice environment.
* Strong commercial acumen, with experience in client pricing and practice profitability.
* Excellent knowledge of UK accounting, tax compliance, and regulatory requirements.
* Demonstrable ability to handle client complaints and escalations with professionalism.
* Strong communication skills, able to engage with clients, staff, and senior leadership effectively.
* Experience in implementing new technologies or large-scale compliance projects.
Desirable:
* Previous experience with Xero, or other cloud-based accounting platforms.
* Familiarity with MTD ITSA requirements and practice-wide rollouts.
* Experience in setting and monitoring KPIs at team or practice level.
* Track record of driving operational efficiencies and improving client service standards.
Package
* Salary: £60,000 per annum
* Pension & benefits package
* Office-based role (not hybrid/remote)
* Clear scope to shape and lead the growth of a forward-thinking accountancy practice
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: From £60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Company pension
Experience:
* Accountancy Practice: 4 years (preferred)
Work Location: In person