Audit and Accounts Manager

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Ltd; Blackburn; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Private medical insurance options

Electric car scheme

Flexitime

Job summary

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Ltd is seeking an Accounts & Audit Manager for its Blackburn office with hybrid working. You will manage a portfolio of corporate clients, delivering ~75% audits and ~25% accounts/advisory work, acting as a trusted adviser and primary client contact.

You will lead audits from planning through to completion under UK standards, develop and coach staff, manage budgets and billing, and contribute to profitable, high‑quality service while progressing toward Senior

Qualifications

• ACA or ACCA qualified with UK practice experience.
• 3–6+ years' PQE in UK practice.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a portfolio of corporate and owner‑managed clients.
• Lead statutory audits from planning to completion under UK standards (ISA UK).
• Coach and develop audit and accounts staff at all levels.

Education

ACA/ACCA qualification

Job description

Accounts & Audit Manager

Salary: £45,000 - £60,000

Location: Blackburn (Hybrid Working)

Are you an experienced audit professional ready to step into a leadership role where you can influence client relationships, shape team development, and drive business performance? This is a standout opportunity to join our client's growing audit and advisory team in a key managerial capacity, offering genuine progression to senior leadership within a forward‑thinking North West firm.

If you are seeking a role that combines technical challenge, people leadership, and commercial responsibility, this position offers the platform to take your career to the next level.

The Role: Accounts & Audit Manager

Following sustained growth, our client is looking to appoint an ambitious Accounts & Audit Manager to their Blackburn office.

You will oversee a portfolio of corporate clients, with approximately 75% audit and 25% accounts and advisory work, acting as a trusted adviser and key client contact.

Key Responsibilities

Portfolio & Client Management

• Manage a portfolio of corporate and owner‑managed business clients
• Act as a trusted adviser, building and maintaining long‑term relationships
• Deliver a high‑quality, joined‑up service across audit, accounts, and advisory

Audit & Technical Leadership

• Oversee and review statutory audits from planning through to completion
• Review financial statements prepared under FRS 102 and FRS 102‑1A
• Ensure compliance with UK auditing standards (ISA UK)
• Provide technical guidance to both clients and internal teams

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, coach, and develop audit and accounts staff at all levels
• Identify training needs and deliver internal training sessions
• Support the development and progression of junior team members

Operational & Commercial Responsibility

• Manage engagement budgets, billing, and recovery
• Ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget
• Contribute to the efficient running of the department
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, quality, and profitability

Career Progression

• Clear pathway to Senior Manager and Director level
• Opportunity to play a key role in strategic growth and leadership

About You

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

• ACA or ACCA qualified with 3‑6+ years' PQE in UK practice
• Significant experience managing audit and/or mixed portfolios
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP and auditing standards
• Experience reviewing statutory accounts and audit files
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage client relationships
• Commercial awareness including budgeting and billing
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational skills
• A proactive, solutions‑focused and career‑driven mindset

Working Arrangements

• Office‑based in Blackburn
• Client site visits across Lancashire and North Manchester
• Hybrid working model with flexibility and autonomy
• Flexitime approach supporting work‑life balance

Learning, Development & Progression

Our client is committed to investing in your long‑term success, offering:

• Structured leadership and technical development programmes
• 6‑monthly performance reviews with optional monthly 1‑2‑1s
• Access to a mentor and internal leadership support
• Development in advisory, networking, and business development skills
• Opportunities to contribute to firm‑wide initiatives and strategy
• Potential for international exposure through global network connections

Comprehensive Benefits Package

You will receive a highly competitive package including:

• £45,000 - £60,000 salary (dependent on experience)
• 30 days' holiday + bank holidays
• Office closure over winter period
• Flexible Easter leave policy
• 8% employer pension contribution
• Death in service (4x salary) & income protection
• Hybrid working & weekly flexitime
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies
• Private medical insurance options (via salary sacrifice)
• Electric car scheme & cycle to work scheme
• Firm‑wide bonus scheme
• Full technical and leadership training support
• Paid sick leave
• Employee wellbeing support, including health, financial and legal advice
• On‑site parking
• Access to a wide range of additional lifestyle and financial benefits

Why Join This Opportunity?

Our client is a highly respected, award‑winning accountancy practice with a strong presence across the North West. Known for their people‑first culture, flexible working environment, and commitment to sustainability and development, they offer a unique opportunity to build a long‑term, rewarding leadership career within practice.