Accounts Manager - Practice

The Portfolio Group; Haywards Heath; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A multi-office accountancy firm in Haywards Heath is seeking an Accountant Manager to oversee a diverse SME client portfolio. In this role, you will lead a talented team, ensure client compliance, and drive efficiency while preparing year-end accounts. The ideal candidate is ACA/ACCA qualified, possesses strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP, and excels in leadership. The firm promotes from within and offers excellent benefits, including 25 days of holidays, pension scheme, and professional growth opportunities.

Benefits

25 days holidays plus bank holidays

Pension scheme

Cycle-to-work scheme

Enhanced maternity/paternity pay

Free flu jabs

Regular social events

Qualifications

• ACA/ACCA qualified or equivalent experience in accountancy practice.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP – FRS102, FRS102A, and FRS105.
• Confident managing a client portfolio from accounts prep to sign-off.

Responsibilities

• Own a diverse SME client portfolio providing accounting and advisory services.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team as the trusted client contact.
• Manage year-end accounts under FRS102, FRS102A, and FRS105.

Skills

UK GAAP knowledge

People leadership

Communication skills

Multi-deadline management

Education

ACA/ACCA qualified

Job description

Accountant Manager - Practice

Haywards Heath

Permanent
Onsite

I'm working exclusively with a fast-growing, multi-office accountancy firm in Sussex that's built an excellent reputation for quality, collaboration, and genuine career development. They look after thousands of businesses and individuals across the region, offering the full suite of accountancy, tax, payroll, and advisory services.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an accountant who's ready to step into management - or for an existing Manager seeking a progressive, people-focused environment where your ideas are valued and your career can really thrive.

Role

You'll take ownership of a diverse SME client portfolio, delivering high-quality accounting and advisory services while leading and developing a talented team. You'll be the trusted point of contact for your clients - ensuring compliance, driving efficiency, and helping businesses reach their potential.

Day to day, you'll manage year-end accounts under FRS102, FRS102A, and FRS105, prepare and review tax computations and VAT returns, mentor junior colleagues, and play an active role in identifying opportunities for growth and improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Own a portfolio of SME clients and provide comprehensive accounting and advisory services.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team, acting as the trusted client contact.
• Manage year-end accounts under FRS102, FRS102A, and FRS105.
• Prepare and review tax computations and VAT returns.
• Mentor junior colleagues and identify opportunities for growth and improvement.

Qualifications

• ACA/ACCA qualified (or equivalent experience in an accountancy practice).
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP – FRS102, FRS102A and FRS105.
• Confident managing a portfolio from accounts prep through to sign-off.
• Excellent communication and people leadership skills.
• Organised, proactive, and comfortable juggling multiple deadlines.
• Ambitious, career-minded, and ready to make an impact.

On Offer

• Holidays: 25 days + bank holidays.
• Benefits: Pension scheme, cycle-to-work scheme, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, free flu jabs, and regular social events.
• Hours: Full time (37.5 hrs/week, Mon-Fri).
• Location: Haywards Heath – office-based with potential hybrid flexibility post-probation.

Join a forward-thinking firm that values its people, promotes from within, and supports professional growth at every level.

Whether you're an experienced Senior Accountant ready to step up or an existing Manager seeking a more dynamic, supportive environment – this is a role where you can lead, grow, and make an impact!