Job Description
Client Manager | Bristol (Stapleton) | Hybrid 3:2
Ready to stop being just a number in a big firm?
We're Focus Accountancy – a small, growing Bristol practice (team of 9 with our Stapleton office) and we need someone who can manage clients AND help run the practice as we scale.
This isn't a "sit in the corner and do tax returns" role. Barry (our founder) needs his right-hand person – someone who can take real ownership, manage client relationships from start to finish, and eventually help run day-to-day operations.
Why This Role Exists
We've got our Stapleton office running smoothly and hired three graduates in the last year who we're developing into future client managers. But Barry needs qualified, experienced support NOW to manage clients and gradually take on practice management responsibilities.
The honest truth? This will evolve into a practice manager role for the right person. Someone who doesn't just want to do the work, but wants to shape how we do it.
What You'll Actually Do (From Day One)
* Manage your own client portfolio – primarily contractors, consultants, freelancers (plus some other businesses) who've chosen us for our personal approach
* Full technical delivery – VAT returns, tax returns, year-end accounts, tax planning advice, oversight of bookkeeping (not hands-on bookkeeping)
* Remote-first client relationships – mostly via Zoom, phone and email (face-to-face available but not the norm)
* Tech-savvy approach – we're fully cloud-based; you must be comfortable with IT systems
* Gradually take on team oversight – help develop our three graduates who are our future client managers
* Share operational duties – as you prove yourself, help Barry with day-to-day practice management
The Bigger Picture (6-12 Months In)
If this works well, you'd naturally grow into:
* Practice management responsibilities
* Personnel oversight (we're a team of 9, not 50)
* Client success and retention strategy
* Being the person who helps keep everything running smoothly while Barry focuses on strategy
We're not promising this on day one – we need to see the fit works both ways.
What We Actually Need
* Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) with 3+ years UK practice experience
* Client-facing confidence – you enjoy being the go-to person (mostly remote contact)
* IT literate – essential, not optional; comfortable with cloud systems and technology
* Leadership potential – willing to take on responsibility and people management
* Technical competence – focus on oversight rather than hands-on bookkeeping
* Within 10 miles of Bristol city centre – hybrid but need you in Stapleton 3 days/week
* Long-term mindset – not looking for a 12-month stepping stone
Why You'd Want This
* £40,000-£50,000 (with performance-based element for right candidate)
* Hybrid working – 3 days Stapleton office, 2 from home (genuine flexibility)
* Real progression – natural evolution to practice management role
* Autonomy from day one – manage your own clients, make decisions
* Small team impact – team of 9 where you'll actually matter
* Modern tech stack – FreeAgent cloud software (everyone's accredited), fully digital
* Values-led practice – aiming for Net Zero by 2030, 100% paperless
* Mental health support – we mean it
* Cycle to work scheme
* Flexible hours – work-life balance matters here
About Focus Accountancy
We specialise primarily in contractors, consultants and freelancers (plus some other business clients). We're small (deliberately), agile, and proud of our high retention rates.
Barry's built something good here, but he needs someone to share the operational load and take genuine ownership. A long-standing team member is moving to 4 days/week from January.
Fair warning: We're looking for the right person, not just any person. This might take time, and that's okay.
What We're NOT Looking For
* Someone who just wants to "do the accounts" without client contact
* People using this as a stopgap before moving to industry
* Anyone who exaggerates on their CV
* Someone who needs hand-holding
* Anyone not comfortable with technology and digital working
* People outside 10 miles of Bristol city centre
The Process
Stage 1: Video interview with Helen (our talent partner)
Step 2: Informal coffee with Barry (not in office – relaxed first meeting)
Stage 3: Technical interview + office visit to meet the team
Stage 4: Final interview + DISC profiling
After initial coffee, everything moves to Helen at HFBAC to keep things smooth and clear.
For recruiters: This role is under exclusive management with HFBAC - agency submissions will not be considered or responded to. Please reach out to Helen Sanders if you wish to support this hiring.