Accounting Manager

About Us

Armstrong Watson are a trusted and leading independent Accountancy and Business Advisory firm based in the North of England and Scotland. Our services and advice are all centred around our quest to support our clients to achieve prosperity, a secure future and peace of mind, which cannot be achieved without the expertise of our dedicated and valued colleagues. With approximately 800 colleagues situated across 19 offices, our people and our culture are at the heart of what we do.

Are you a Chartered Qualified (ICAS, ACA or ACCA) Accounting Professional looking to take the next step in your career? We are seeking an ambitious and technically skilled Business Services Manager to join our dynamic team based in either Carlisle or Penrith. This is a fantastic opportunity for those eager to develop and progress to a Senior Manager position.

• Take ownership of a portfolio of basic / large / complex Business Services clients.
• Complete and submit financial statements, business taxation and personal taxation for all clients within your portfolio by required deadlines.
• Oversee and provide technical support to Business Services Assistants and Seniors, and undertake line‑management duties (1‑1s, annual and quarterly goal‑setting meetings, student review meetings, etc.).
• Resolve complex queries relating to assignments and liaise directly with clients.
• Review assignments prepared by Assistants and Seniors to ensure compliance with firm standards and readiness for client review.
• Attend and contribute to client meetings as required by the Business Services Partner.
• Build professional relationships with clients, encouraging referrals and generating new business.
• Develop and maintain your own network of professional contacts.

• A full UK driving licence.
• ICAS, ACA or ACCA qualification.
• Experience working in an accounting capacity at an accountancy practice.
• Aspiring to lead a team and drive business growth.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced environment.
• Strong team‑player with a willingness to support colleagues.
• Excellent prioritisation, organisational and problem‑solving skills.
• Ambitious and eager to develop your career.

• Salary sacrifice employer contribution pension scheme (including life cover and income protection).
• Competitive annual leave entitlement up to 26 days plus bank holidays.
• Annual leave purchase scheme (up to 5 additional days per year).
• Smart working policy, allowing balance of home and remote work.
• Health Shield cash plan (cash‑back on a range of health benefits and discounts on holidays, fashion and entertainment).
• Employee assistance programme (24/7 confidential support for well‑being and health).
• Paid flu jabs and eye tests.
• Introductory commission scheme (financial reward for client referrals).
• Employee referral scheme (financial reward for colleague referrals, up to £2,500 per referral).
• Ongoing access to online training courses and materials.
• Paid professional membership fees.
• Charity and colleague of the month initiatives.
• Subsidised social events throughout the year.

Mid‑Senior level, full‑time position, located in Carlisle or Penrith, England. The role is suited for candidates ready to advance to a Senior Manager position.

We welcome agency suppliers for this vacancy. Please note that assistance and support to advance your career are integral parts of this role.