Client Manager/Portfolio Lead Accounts & Corporation Tax

Overview:

A well-established and growing chartered accountancy practice in Surrey is seeking an experienced Client Manager to take ownership of a varied client portfolio. The firm offers a professional but supportive culture, modern systems, and clear progression opportunities.

The Role:

As Client Manager, you will manage a diverse portfolio of owner-managed businesses and SMEs across various sectors. This is a hands-on role combining technical delivery, team supervision, and client relationship management.

You’ll be responsible for overseeing the full cycle of accounts and corporation tax compliance while also mentoring junior staff and contributing to the firm’s wider success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage your own portfolio of clients across a variety of industries
• Responsible for start to end process of requesting client records, reviewing junior team members’ work, finalisation of statutory accounts and CT600s, issuing draft accounts (subject to partner approval), finalisation and billing process
• Prepare complex accounts and corporation tax returns where needed
• Supervise and review the work of junior team members
• Liaise with clients directly to handle queries 
• Building relationships with clients and reviewing on a regular basis, ensuring they are getting the support they need
• Prepare or assist with monthly/quarterly management accounts
• Option to be involved in audit assignments (if desired)
• Option to be involved in personal tax (if desired)
• Coordinate with internal teams (bookkeeping, payroll, personal tax) to provide a full-service approach
• Monitor job budgets and profitability, ensuring fees reflect time and complexity
• Liaise with HMRC as required
• Report directly to Partners and assist with implementing internal procedures and policies
• Ensuring deadlines are met in a timely manner
• Ensuring a commercial view with respect to fees charged versus actual time spent

About You:

• ACA or ACCA qualified (or equivalent)
• Minimum 3–5 years of practice experience post-qualification (or at senior level)
• Strong technical knowledge in accounts preparation and corporation tax
• Confident in managing client relationships and providing advice
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior staff
• Organised, proactive, and commercially aware
• Audit experience is useful but not essential
• Personal tax experience is useful but not essential

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary 
• Hybrid working available
• Modern, collaborative office environment
• Progression opportunities available
• Exposure to a wide range of clients and sectors
• Professional, friendly and social team culture