Associate Director

Howett Thorpe; England; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established independent firm in Guildford is seeking an experienced Associate Director to oversee teams and drive firm growth. This role combines hands-on technical work with leadership responsibilities, supporting managerial development and maintaining high service standards. The ideal candidate will be ACA/ACCA qualified with strong FRS 102 experience and proven leadership skills. This position offers a clear partner-track opportunity in a flexible work environment.

Benefits

Partner‑track opportunity

Hybrid and flexible working

25 days holiday

Professional development support

Impact on firm growth and culture

Qualifications

• Experience in practice as a qualified accountant.
• Strong knowledge of FRS 102.
• Previous exposure to audit engagements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee managers and provide guidance on accounts and audit work.
• Support the development of the management team.
• Challenge and collaborate with partners for process improvements.
• Maintain high standards of service delivery to clients.
• Review accounts ensuring compliance with FRS 102.
• Identify growth opportunities for the firm.
• Contribute to strategic planning and operational initiatives.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Client management

Knowledge of FRS 102

Education

ACA/ACCA qualified

Job description

We are delighted to be working with a well-established independent firm in Guildford 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 Guildford

Salary £60 000 DOE

Reference no: HT15903g

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

Qualifications

• 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

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.