Virtual FC Assistant Manager / Manager

Virtual Financial Controller Location Manager or Assistant Manager

Permanent, Full-time
Theale, Berkshire

I am recruiting for a Manager or Assistant Manager role in Virtual Financial Controller (FC) and Outsourcing team of my client, a respected and dynamic accountancy practice based in Theale, Berkshire.

This exciting opportunity is ideal for an experienced accountant who is ready to take on a role with significant responsibility, autonomy, and client interaction.

Key Responsibilities:

In this role, you will:

1. Provide Financial Controller-level support to a portfolio of clients, including:

• Preparing management accounts and reviewing workings of junior team members.
• Preparing information packs for board meetings and presenting financial results to stakeholders.
• Reconciling balance sheets, investigating variances, and updating cashflow forecasts.
• Preparing VAT returns, compliance filings, and statutory financial statements under UK GAAP and IFRS.
• Supporting external audits and handling ad hoc client finance queries.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding their business needs and identifying areas for added support.
• Scope, plan, and budget client projects, ensuring appropriate resources and skillsets are allocated.
• Oversee and review work prepared by junior team members, offering feedback to support their professional development.
• Handle complex or judgemental areas of work, analysing data, identifying issues, and providing clear conclusions.
• Act as the primary client contact for projects, ensuring effective communication throughout.
• Stay up to date with technical and operational knowledge to provide meaningful insights and advice.
• Monitor projects to ensure they meet deadlines and budgets, and manage them through to completion.
• Collaborate with the Commercial team to ensure timely client billing.

Team Leadership Responsibilities:

As a line manager to trainee accountants, you will:

1. Set goals and development plans for your line students, holding regular review sessions.
2. Act as a mentor and role model for junior team members, supporting their technical training and personal development.
3. Participate in recruitment efforts and assist in day-to-day departmental management.
4. Lead or contribute to internal projects as required.

Skills and Attributes for Success:

This role offers a high level of autonomy, so we are looking for a proactive individual who continuously seeks opportunities for improvement while fostering their own growth.

Requirements:

1. Fully qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or equivalent).
2. Experience preparing high-quality financial information in practice and/or industry.
3. Strong knowledge of UK GAAP, IFRS, and the month-end process.
4. Experience with management accounts, VAT returns, and accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero).
5. Skilled in Microsoft 365, especially Excel.
6. Proven ability to manage client projects, build meaningful relationships, and lead a team.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers.