Client Manager

Reed; Eastbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local accounting firm in Eastbourne is seeking a Client Manager to provide high-level support to a Director. Responsibilities include preparing tax returns and managing deadlines, requiring at least 2 years' experience in the UK accountancy sector and AAT qualifications. This role offers training and development opportunities, aiming for proactive candidates with strong communication and organizational skills.

Benefits

Full training and support

Opportunities for greater responsibility

Regular development reviews

Exposure to varied client portfolio

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a UK accountancy practice or tax team.
• Demonstrable ability to prepare accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies.
• Strong team ethic with the ability to coordinate with secretarial and admin staff.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and submit Self Assessment tax returns for individuals, partnerships, and sole traders.
• Support the completion of company accounts and corporation tax returns.
• Coordinate with internal team members to ensure effective time management.

Skills

Experience in personal and corporate tax

Strong communication skills

Attention to detail

Proactive mindset

Strong organizational skills

Education

AAT qualified or equivalent experience

Preferred: ACA, ACCA or CTA

Tools

Cloud-based tax/accounting platforms (e.g., FreeAgent, Xero)

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Outlook

Job description

Client Manager

• Annual Salary: Negotiable on experience
• Location: Eastbourne
• Job Type: Full-time

Reed Brighton are looking for a Client Manager to provide high-level support to a Director, managing a broad portfolio of clients. This role is ideal for someone with experience in personal and corporate tax, adept at managing deadlines, and thriving in a fast-paced environment. A proactive mindset, attention to detail, and strong communication skills are essential.

Day-to-day of the role:

• Prepare and submit Self Assessment tax returns for individuals, partnerships, and sole traders.
• Support the completion of company accounts and corporation tax returns in line with client deadlines.
• Prepare and submit associated filings including P11Ds, VAT, PAYE, and CIS registrations/returns.
• Maintain full awareness of client compliance calendars to ensure no deadlines are missed.
• Maintain control over all active jobs and submissions, using internal tracking tools to manage status and progress.
• Coordinate with internal team members including the Director’s secretary to ensure effective time management, diary planning, and communication with clients.
• Promptly chase clients for outstanding records and respond to queries to keep workflows moving.
• Utilise internal systems to monitor tax payment reminders, submission confirmations, and Companies House filings.
• Assist with onboarding of new clients, ensuring appropriate systems and processes are in place from day one.
• Support the Director’s working style by maintaining clear systems, accurate records, and a responsive approach.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years' experience in a UK accountancy practice or tax team.
• AAT qualified (or qualified by experience with a strong compliance and accounts background).
• Preferred: ACA, ACCA or CTA (either qualified or part-qualified).
• Demonstrable ability to prepare accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies.
• Familiarity with cloud-based tax and accounting platforms (e.g., FreeAgent, Xero, HMRC systems).
• Competent with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and document management tools.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to work at pace while maintaining accuracy.
• Clear and professional communicator, both in writing and verbally.
• Strong team ethic with the ability to coordinate with secretarial and admin staff.
• Proactive and solution-focused, willing to take initiative to ensure progress.
• High attention to detail and commitment to consistent client service.

Benefits:

• Full training and support provided to build familiarity with internal systems and procedures.
• Opportunities to take on greater responsibility as experience grows.
• Regular check-ins and development reviews to support long-term progression within the firm.
• Involvement in internal process improvements and practice development initiatives as appropriate.
• Exposure to a varied and engaging client portfolio.
• Encouragement and flexibility to pursue additional qualifications.

They are looking to interview immediately for this role, please submit a CV and we will get back to you about next steps as soon as possible.