Rowland Recruitment is working with a long established local firm of accountants that is looking to appoint a Senior Manager/Director Designate. You will lead client service delivery and act as the strategic successor to the current partner. Responsibilities include compliance oversight, client relationship management, new business generation, and eventual partner transition. This is a medium term succession opportunity with phased responsibilities leading to firm leadership. Are you an experienced Senior Client Manager or Director-level accountant ready to take the next step? This is a rare opportunity to join a well established, respected firm in Maidstone with a clear succession plan to become Partner.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as a primary client facing contact; drive advisory services, from compliance to strategic tax planning.
- Identify growth opportunities, cross sell services, and lead in the drive to win new clients.
- Mentor staff and support with the development of the team, recruitment, budgeting, and performance reviews.
- Collaborate on process documentation, systems, and client onboarding to enhance the firm’s efficiency.
- Work to support the current Partner to coordinate a phased handover over 3–5 years, gradually assuming full partner responsibilities and reporting as part of transition planning.
- Proactively communicate with clients throughout the succession phases to maintain continuity and trust.
- Move beyond compliance into advisory, growth, and firm leadership.
- Work closely with the varied client base consisting of SMEs and Ltd companies across Kent and beyond, delivering high value solutions.
- Shape the future of the practice while maintaining its independence.
Ideal Candidate:
- Fully qualified (ACA/ACCA), with 8–12+ years PQE in accounts, tax or advisory.
- Experience leading compliance and advisory workstreams; commercial focus beyond compliance.
- Strong client relationship building and retention record.
- Confident in managing teams, delegation, and delivering on budgets.
- Business development track record.
- Up for a long term strategic commitment; career path leading to partnership.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and manage change.
- Leadership skills to manage and inspire a small, dedicated team.
What’s On Offer:
- Competitive salary depending on experience
- Pension
- 25 days AL
- Parking
- Continued professional development
- Succession-related incentives.
If you are ambitious, client focused, and ready to lead, this is your chance to secure a long term future in a thriving local firm.