We are delighted to be working with a well-established independent firm in Woking on an exciting Associate Director opportunity. This role is ideal for a highly motivated and driven qualified accountant looking to take a significant step up in their career. With a clear partner-track path, you will become a key member of the leadership team, overseeing managers, challenging partners, and driving the growth and development of the firm. Job Title Associate Director Job Type Permanent Location Woking, Surrey Salary £60,000 – 80,000 DOE Reference no: HT15903w Associate Director - About The Role As Associate Director, your primary focus will be accounts preparation, but you will also have exposure to audit engagements. You will support and mentor the management team, helping them develop their technical skills and client management capabilities. At the same time, you will have the autonomy to implement improvements, share your ideas, and contribute directly to the firm’s strategic growth. This is a rare opportunity to combine hands-on technical work with leadership responsibility in a supportive yet ambitious environment. Key responsibilities: * Oversee managers and provide guidance on accounts and audit work * Support the development and progression of the managers and other members of the team * Challenge and collaborate with partners to implement process improvements and efficiency initiatives * Take ownership of client relationships and maintain high standards of service delivery * Review accounts in accordance with FRS 102, ensuring accuracy and compliance * Identify opportunities to grow the firm’s client portfolio and service offerings * Contribute to strategic planning and operational initiatives as a key member of the leadership team The successful Associate Director will have: * ACA/ACCA qualified with experience in practice * Strong FRS 102 accounts experience * Previous exposure to audit engagements * Proven leadership or mentoring experience * Highly motivated, commercially aware, and ready for a step up into a senior leadership position * Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills * A proactive approach with the ability to implement ideas and improvements Associate Director - Benefits * Partner-track opportunity * Hybrid and flexible working * 25 days holiday * Professional development and CPD support * Opportunity to have a real impact on firm growth and culture Howett Thorpe are acting as a recruitment agency in relation to this role and comply with all relevant UK legislation and do not discriminate on any protected characteristics. Due to the high volume of applications we currently receive, we are unable to respond to all candidates. If you do not hear from a Consultant within 5 working days, please assume that you have not been successful. Refer a friend If this job is not of interest to you, but you know a friend or colleague who may be interested, recommend them to us and receive a minimum of £100 in vouchers if we assist them in securing a permanent role and a minimum of £25 in vouchers if we place them in a temporary assignment. (Terms & conditions apply)