A well established, independent accountancy firm in Brighton is looking to appoint an ambitious Private Client Tax Manager or Director to join our growing team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced tax professional who is looking to take the next step in their career within a supportive and forward-thinking practice.
The role would suit someone with strong personal tax experience, ideally ATT and/or CTA qualified, although we would also consider ACA/ACCA qualified individuals with relevant tax exposure and a genuine desire to specialise further in private client work.
This is more than a compliance-focused position. Alongside managing a varied portfolio of private clients, trusts and estates, you will play an active role in delivering advisory work, developing long-term client relationships, identifying opportunities to add value, and supporting the continued growth of the firm. It is an ideal opportunity for someone who is motivated by a clear route towards Director/Partner level.
Key Responsibilities
Managing a portfolio of private clients, trusts and estates, ensuring a high standard of client service at all times
Reviewing and preparing:
Self-assessment tax returns
Partnership tax returns
Capital gains tax returns
Trust and estate tax returns
Annual trust accounts
Overseeing the day-to-day administration of trusts, including cashbooks, tax payments, beneficiary distributions and trustee correspondence
Registering new trusts and estates via the Trust Registration Service
Managing and submitting quarterly MTD for ITSA returns
Supporting clients with HMRC disclosures, correspondence and enquiries
Preparing holdover elections and inheritance tax forms for trusts
Working closely with the Directors on technical research and the preparation of bespoke tax advice for clients
Advising clients on a range of private client tax matters, identifying planning opportunities and delivering practical, commercially aware solutions
Taking a proactive approach to client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser and identifying opportunities to broaden service lines
Supporting the development of junior team members through review, coaching and day-to-day guidance
Managing WIP, billing and recovery in a timely and commercial manner
Advisory, Business Development & Growth Focus
As part of this role, you will also be encouraged to contribute beyond the core compliance work by:
Building strong, long-term relationships with clients and becoming a key point of contact
Identifying advisory opportunities across the portfolio, including tax planning, succession planning and wider private client matters
Supporting the Directors with new business activity and helping convert opportunities into ongoing client relationships
Networking with local professional contacts, intermediaries and referrers to raise your profile and that of the firm
Contributing to the firm’s growth strategy through business development, cross-selling and spotting opportunities to add value to existing clients
Playing an active role in shaping your own progression, with the opportunity to develop towards a Director/Partner position
About You
We are looking for someone who is technically capable, commercially minded and keen to build a long-term career in private client tax.
You will ideally have:
ATT and/or CTA qualification, or ACA/ACCA with relevant private client tax experience
Experience managing a portfolio of personal tax and/or trust clients within practice
Strong technical knowledge across private client tax compliance, with exposure to advisory work an advantage
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
A proactive and client-focused approach
The ability to build credibility with clients and colleagues alike
Commercial awareness and an interest in developing business relationships
Ambition to progress your career and take on increasing responsibility over time
What We Offer
Extremely competitive salary
Hybrid working, with up to 2 days per week from home following probation
A genuine opportunity to broaden your advisory exposure
Clear progression potential within a growing firm for someone aspiring to Director/Partner level