Manager / Assistant Manager - Business Services

Hart Recruitment Ltd; Canberra; Hybrid; AUD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

WFH / flexible hours

Job summary

Hart Recruitment Ltd on behalf of a well-established boutique accounting firm in Canberra is seeking a Business Services / Tax Manager or Assistant Manager. You will lead a diverse client portfolio across owner-managed, trusts, partnerships and SMSFs, and mentor junior staff.

You will prepare and review financial statements, income tax returns, BAS/IAS, and FBT, provide proactive tax planning and business advisory support, liaise with clients, and help with budgeting and WIP.

Qualifications

• CA/CPA qualification or actively working towards completion.
• 6–7+ years' experience in Australian public practice.
• Experience managing client relationships and reviewing junior staff work.
• Proficiency with Xero/XPM or MYOB/AE.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of clients including companies, trusts, partnerships, and SMSFs.
• Prepare and review financial statements, income tax returns, BAS/IAS, and FBT.
• Provide proactive tax planning and business advisory support.
• Mentor graduates and intermediate accountants; review their work.
• Assist with ATO correspondence, audits, and compliance.
• Support Partners with special projects and client onboarding.
• Monitor budgets, WIP, and billing for portfolio.

Skills

Client relationship management

Team leadership

Communication skills

Organisation skills

Education

CA/CPA qualification (or in progress)

Tools

Xero/XPM

MYOB/AE

Job description

Manager / Assistant Manager - Business Services

Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience

Clear career progression pathway towards Senior Manager / Director level

Ongoing professional development and support toward further qualifications

Flexible working arrangements; WFH / flexible hrs

Supportive, down-to-earth team culture with regular social events

Our client is a well-established boutique accounting firm based in Canberra - delivering business advisory, taxation, and compliance services to a diverse portfolio of clients - from owner-managed businesses and family groups through to larger corporate entities. With a supportive team culture, modern offices, and a genuine focus on staff development, this firm prides itself on providing high-quality advice while maintaining a healthy work-life balance for its people.

We are seeking an experienced Business Services / Tax Manager or Assistant Manager. This role is ideal for a driven accounting professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, manage a diverse client portfolio, and mentor junior staff within a collaborative and progressive firm.

Main Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of clients, including companies, trusts, partnerships, and SMSFs
• Prepare and review financial statements, income tax returns, BAS/IAS, and FBT returns
• Provide proactive tax planning and business advisory support to clients
• Liaise directly with clients to build and maintain strong working relationships
• Review work prepared by graduates and intermediate accountants, providing feedback and technical guidance
• Assist with ATO correspondence, audits, and compliance matters
• Support Partners and Directors with special projects, structuring advice, and client onboarding
• Monitor job budgets, WIP, and billing for your portfolio

About You:

• CA/CPA qualified (or actively working towards completion)
• Minimum 6–7+ years' experience in Australian public practice
• Proven experience managing client relationships and reviewing junior staff work
• Proficiency with software such as Xero/XPM or MYOB/AE
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive, client-focused approach
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing deadlines