Technical Compliance Manager

Streets; Colchester; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A national firm is seeking a Technical Compliance Manager to manage compliance functions and support risk management initiatives. The ideal candidate should be a qualified Accountant/Auditor with experience in a compliance-focused role within an accountancy practice. Responsibilities include managing compliance frameworks, conducting file reviews, and providing expert advice on regulatory issues. This role offers flexible working arrangements and a competitive benefit package.

Benefits

25 days holiday

Flexible working arrangements

Competitive remuneration

Benefits package

Qualifications

• Experience in a technical or compliance-focused role within an accountancy practice.
• Experience in a compliance management role within a Top 40 accountancy firm is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of compliance processes.

Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain the firm’s compliance framework, ensuring regulatory standards are consistently met.
• Provide expert guidance on audit standards, financial reporting, and anti-money laundering.
• Lead the firm’s cold file review process and conduct hot file reviews.

Skills

Qualified Accountant/Auditor (ACA/ACCA or equivalent)

Strong understanding of ICAEW and FRC ethical and regulatory frameworks

Excellent communication skills

Experience conducting file reviews

Job description

We are a national firm with a strong track record of growth in both size and complexity of work. As part of our ongoing expansion, we are seeking a dedicated Technical Compliance Manager to manage the technical compliance functions, support risk management initiatives, ensure regulatory adherence, and drive continuous improvement in operational standards.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified Accountant/Auditor with experience in an accountancy practice, ideally in a technical or compliance-focused role. Experience working with QAD, ICAEW, in a compliance role within a Top 40 accountancy firm is highly desirable.

As Technical Compliance Manager, you will be responsible for implementing and managing the firm’s compliance frameworks and providing day-to-day oversight of compliance processes. You will work closely with senior stakeholders including the Audit Committee, Audit Compliance Partner, and Managing Partner to support and enhance compliance across the firm.

This role offers flexibility with remote and/or in-office work. Travel is minimal—typically just one visit per office per year—making it an excellent opportunity for professionals seeking a more balanced and collaborative working environment.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance Management & Oversight:

• Manage and maintain the firm’s compliance framework, ensuring regulatory standards are consistently met.
• Coordinate compliance activity across the firm, including liaising with Responsible Individuals (RIs) and the Compliance team.
• Support the Audit Compliance Partner and Audit Committee with the implementation and monitoring of compliance initiatives.
• Monitor and report on compliance performance and support action planning for any areas of concern.
• Ensure internal stakeholders are kept informed and up to date on compliance expectations and changes.

Technical Advisory & Support:

• Provide expert guidance to client-facing partners and managers on audit standards, financial reporting, anti-money laundering, ethics, and conflicts of interest.
• Act as the key point of contact for ICAEW compliance-related queries and correspondence.

Quality Assurance & File Review:

• Lead the firm’s cold file review process across all offices, ensuring a consistent and robust approach.
• Conduct hot file reviews and Engagement Quality Reviews (EQRs) in line with professional and internal requirements.
• Identify areas for improvement in working practices and contribute to the development of more efficient and compliant procedures.

Regulatory Compliance & Reporting:

• Manage the submission of ICAEW Annual Returns for all regulated entities within the firm.
• Coordinate preparation for ICAEW regulatory visits (audit and non-audit), and support follow-up actions post-visit.
• Stay informed of changes in legislation and regulation, updating policies and procedures as required.

Training & Continuous Improvement:

• Oversee and coordinate compliance-related training, including induction programs and ongoing CPD.
• Conduct compliance due diligence as part of acquisition and merger activity.
• Review and update internal policies, ensuring continuous alignment with best practices and regulatory standards.
• Monitor outsourced functions to ensure UK compliance obligations are met.

Skills and Experience

Essential:

• Qualified Accountant/Auditor (ACA/ACCA or equivalent).
• Experience in a technical or compliance-focused role within an accountancy practice.
• Strong understanding of ICAEW and FRC ethical and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience conducting file reviews and supporting compliance processes.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage relationships across a multi-office structure.

Desirable:

• Experience in a compliance management role within a Top 40 accountancy firm or regulatory body.
• Involvement in acquisition-related compliance due diligence and integration.
• Previous experience in managing or coordinating external regulatory inspections or visits.

Why Join Us

• Play a central role in managing compliance at a national and growing firm.
• Help shape and refine operational compliance processes with the support of senior leadership.
• Collaborate across teams in a culture that values practical, hands-on contribution.
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements that support work-life balance.
• Receive a competitive remuneration and benefits package.
• Competitive package and benefits, including 25 days holiday.

Apply now!