Accounts Manager – Axminster

Westcotts Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers; Exeter; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

Pension 3% rising to 4%

Private Medical Insurance

Westfield Rewards

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Westcotts, a Top 50+50 Accountancy Practice with over 290 team members across Devon and Somerset, is seeking an experienced Accounts Manager for the Axminster office on a permanent basis.

You will manage a diverse client portfolio, develop junior staff, and contribute to the office's growth while upholding high service standards and regulatory compliance.

We value client relationships, strong leadership, and technical excellence in accounts and tax preparations.

Qualifications

• Experience working within an accountancy practice at manager level.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Proven client relationship management and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop a portfolio of audit, charity, and other clients.
• Lead, mentor and support junior team members.
• Review financial statements for limited companies, partnerships and sole traders.
• Prepare and review personal and corporate tax computations and returns.
• Oversee VAT return preparation and HMRC/Companies House compliance.
• Support clients with business setup and advisory matters and opportunities for additional services.

Skills

Manager level experience

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Relationship management

Education

ACA or ACCA qualification

Job description

Accounts Manager

Axminster

We’re Westcotts – a Top 50+50 Accountancy Practice and Real Living Wage Employer, with over 290 team members based across Devon and Somerset.

We’re looking for an experienced and ambitious Accounts Manager to join our Axminster office on a permanent basis. This is an exciting opportunity to work with a varied portfolio of clients, support and develop junior team members, and play a key role in the continued growth and success of the office.

This role would suit someone already operating successfully at Manager level, who is looking for a long-term opportunity in a successful and friendly office. It’s a chance to build a rewarding and successful career within a respected local firm, with strong community relationships and a people-focused culture.

Why Westcotts?

At Westcotts, we believe our people are our greatest strength. When you join us, you’ll become part of a supportive and collaborative firm where your contribution and career development are genuinely valued.

You’ll Benefit From

• The opportunity to work with a diverse and interesting client portfolio
• Genuine long-term progression opportunities towards senior leadership
• A friendly and supportive office environment with strong local relationships
• The chance to mentor and develop junior team members
• A genuine focus on wellbeing and work/life balance
• The opportunity to be part of a growing and ambitious firm with a strong reputation across the South West

Main Duties

Responsibilities

This is a varied and client-focused role where you will combine technical expertise, relationship management, and team leadership responsibilities. Your duties will include:

• Managing and developing a portfolio of interesting clients including audit and charity / not-for-profit clients, acting as a trusted point of contact and building strong long-term relationships
• Leading, mentoring, and supporting junior team members, including workflow management and day-to-day development
• Reviewing and preparing financial statements for limited companies, partnerships, and sole traders
• Preparing and reviewing personal and corporate tax computations and returns
• Overseeing VAT return preparation and ensuring compliance with HMRC and Companies House requirements
• Supporting clients with business setup and advisory matters, including company incorporations and HMRC registrations
• Providing proactive business and tax advice to help clients improve profitability and achieve their goals
• Being a trusted adviser in a varied and interesting local community
• Ensuring work is completed in line with internal procedures, ethical standards, and regulatory requirements
• Assisting Directors and Partners with technical assignments and specialist projects
• Identifying opportunities to provide additional services and support to clients

This list summarises the main duties of the role but is not exhaustive — you may be asked to support with additional projects and responsibilities as required.

Attributes, Skills, Experience And Qualifications

We’re looking for someone who is technically strong, commercially aware, and passionate about building trusted client relationships. You will need:

• Experience working within an accountancy practice at Manager level
• Strong experience preparing and reviewing accounts and tax returns for limited companies and unincorporated businesses
• ACA or ACCA qualification
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to support, mentor, and develop team members
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
• A proactive and positive approach, with strong attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present information clearly and professionally
• A friendly, approachable, and client-focused manner
• A professional and team-oriented attitude with a commitment to delivering excellent client service

Terms / Benefits

• 36.25 hours / 5 days per week
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Annual salary review.
• Opportunity to carry over 1 week’s holiday into the following holiday year.
• Death in service 3 x annual salary.
• Access to Westfield Rewards and Health scheme.
• 24-hour external Employee Assistance Programme helpline.
• Flexible benefits including Buy and Sell holiday, Cycle to Work, Payroll Charity Giving and Private Medical Insurance.
• Introducing clients and team member commission schemes.
• Pension 3% rising to 4% (but matched up to 6%) after 4 years’ service.
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay after one years’ service.