Accounts Director

Agilis Search Ltd; Chelmsford; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious high growth accountancy firm in Chelmsford is seeking a dynamic Accounts Director to lead a high-performing client portfolio. This role involves strategic advising, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with UK regulations. With a focus on client service and operational efficiency, this opportunity is ideal for those looking to progress to Director or Partner level.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7–10 years’ experience in UK accountancy practice.
• Up-to-date CPD record with advanced technical knowledge.
• Proven track record of managing multiple teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of services across a portfolio of clients.
• Act as a strategic advisor offering proactive guidance.
• Manage and develop Managers, Assistant Managers, and Senior Accountants.

Skills

Expert-level understanding of UK GAAP (especially FRS 102)

Extensive experience in reviewing complex statutory accounts

Strong delegation, coaching, and mentoring capabilities

Excellent communication and client-handling skills

Commercially astute

Education

ACA, ACCA, or equivalent qualification (fully qualified)

Tools

CCH

Xero

Sage

QuickBooks

Job description

# Accounts Director**Job Category:** Finance**Job Type:** Full Time Hybrid Working**Job Location:** ChelmsfordA prestigious high growth Accountancy firm, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Director to join their Accounts team in Chelmsford. This role offers a unique chance to lead a high-performing client portfolio within a firm that has seen significant growth through successful acquisitions and organic development.Role OverviewAs a Director within the Accounts team, the successful candidate will lead a high-performing client portfolio, acting as a strategic advisor and ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely, and commercially effective services. This role involves overseeing multiple teams across complex engagements, maintaining quality control, managing risk, and driving efficiency.Key Responsibilities: – Lead the delivery of services across a portfolio of complex or high-value clients. – Act as a strategic advisor, offering proactive guidance on financial, regulatory, and operational matters. – Identify client risks and emerging needs, proposing appropriate additional services. – Manage and develop Managers, Assistant Managers, and Senior Accountants. – Conduct regular performance reviews and development conversations. – Support recruitment, onboarding, and training initiatives. – Review and sign off on complex accounting work, ensuring compliance with UK GAAP (FRS 102), tax legislation, and internal quality standards. – Serve as a technical escalation point for Managers and Partners. – Monitor WIP, recovery rates, and fee arrangements. – Oversee billing processes and ensure timely invoicing. – Participate in pricing discussions and proposal preparation. – Drive internal projects to improve processes, technology use, and client experience. – Ensure adherence to internal compliance standards and external regulations.Skills and Qualifications: – ACA, ACCA, or equivalent qualification (fully qualified) – Minimum of 7–10 years’ experience in UK accountancy practice, including experience at Manager level – Up-to-date CPD record with advanced technical knowledge in accounting and tax compliance – Expert-level understanding of UK GAAP (especially FRS 102), corporate tax, VAT, and financial reporting requirements – Extensive experience in reviewing and signing off complex statutory accounts and advisory work – High proficiency in practice and accounting software (e.g. CCH, Xero, Sage, QuickBooks) – Proven track record of managing multiple teams and direct reports – Strong delegation, coaching, and mentoring capabilities – Excellent communication and client-handling skills – Commercially astute, with experience in managing fees, recovery rates, and identifying upsell or cross-sell opportunities – Ability to contribute to new business activity and firm growth initiatives – Demonstrates ownership, sound judgement, and a solutions-focused mindset – Aligns with the firm’s values and culture, promoting collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvementFor those ready to take the next step in their career within a forward-thinking and supportive firm, this role offers a path towards future progression to Director or Partner level.## Apply for this position