Accounts Prep Manager (UK Accounts experience required)

123 Consulting; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

123 Consulting in Johannesburg is seeking an Accounts Prep Manager with experience in UK accounts to join our growing Business Outsourcing team.

You will oversee statutory accounts, management accounts, VAT returns, and tax filings, while advising on cashflow and growth strategy. This role emphasizes client relationships, deadlines, and accurate delivery within an international network.

Qualifications

• Qualified as SAIPA/AGA(SA)/CA(SA) or CIMA with relevant experience.
• Experience managing a portfolio of clients in an accountancy firm.
• Knowledge of UK accounting standards and UK tax compliance.
• Proficient in Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage; strong MS Office skills.
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of clients, acting as their main point of contact.
• Oversee the preparation and review of statutory accounts, management accounts, VAT returns, and tax filings.
• Provide proactive advice on tax planning, cashflow, and business growth strategies.
• Ensure all compliance deadlines are met and work is delivered accurately and on time.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through regular communication.
• Identify opportunities to provide added value through advisory services.
• Support new client onboarding and ensure a smooth transition.
• Stay updated on accounting standards, tax legislation, and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with colleagues to improve processes and deliver an excellent client experience.

Skills

SAIPA

AGA(SA)

CA(SA)

CIMA

UK accounting standards

Tax compliance

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

Client portfolio management

Education

Professional accounting qualification

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

MS Office

Job description

Description

123 Consulting are a people-first accounting and advisory firm based in Johannesburg and Somerset West. We are proud to be part of the Sumer Group, a leading accountancy practice across the UK and Ireland.

123 Consulting are a people-first accounting and advisory firm based in Johannesburg and Somerset West. We are proud to be part of the Sumer Group, a leading accountancy practice across the UK and Ireland.

Here at 123, we believe in building long-term relationships with clients and giving our people the chance to thrive in a supportive, professional environment that values initiative, collaboration, and integrity.

We’re looking for an Accounts Prep Manager with experience in UK Accounts to join our growing team.

Department

Business Outsourcing

Location

Johannesburg

Key Responsibilities

As a Client Accounts Manager, you will:

• Manage a portfolio of clients, acting as their main point of contact.
• Oversee the preparation and review of statutory accounts, management accounts, VAT returns, and tax filings.
• Provide proactive advice on tax planning, cashflow, and business growth strategies.
• Ensure all compliance deadlines are met and work is delivered accurately and on time.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships through regular communication.
• Identify opportunities to provide added value through advisory services.
• Support new client onboarding and ensure a smooth transition.
• Stay updated on accounting standards, tax legislation, and compliance requirements.
• Collaborate with colleagues to improve processes and deliver an excellent client experience.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

We’re looking for someone who brings both technical expertise and strong people skills:

Skills & Experience

• SAIPA Professional Accountant / AGA(SA) / CA(SA) / CIMA qualified.
• Proven experience managing a portfolio of clients within an accountancy firm.
• Sound knowledge of UK accounting standards, tax compliance, and financial reporting.
• Proficient in accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage) and MS Office.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.

Personal Attributes

• Client-focused, with strong communication and relationship management skills.
• Detail-oriented, accurate, and proactive in problem-solving.
• A trusted advisor who can explain complex issues clearly.
• Professional, approachable, and collaborative.
• Commercially aware with the ability to spot opportunities to support client growth.

Belong @ Sumer

• Be part of a people-first firm that genuinely values its team
• Work within an international network through the Sumer Group
• Gain exposure to a diverse client base
• Grow your career in a supportive and collaborative environment

At Sumer, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, not just as buzzwords, but as the heartbeat of our team. Our recruitment practices reflect this commitment, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We prioritise creating an environment where every candidate feels respected and supported throughout the hiring process.

Everyone is unique and we understand that each individual may have distinct needs to showcase their best selves during interviews. Our commitment is to offer personalised support for all