Accounts & Business Services Associate Director

Accounts & Business Services - Associate Director

Job Title: Associate Director
Location: Hybrid Working London N3 / Remote

Salary Range: 85000 - 100000

About BKL

BKL is a Top 40 accountancy and advisory business supporting a diverse client base from entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals to ambitious owner-managed businesses and multinational groups. With a legacy spanning over 130 years weve evolved into a modern purpose-driven business that balances profit with impact.

We are proud to be a certified B Corp reflecting our commitment to sustainability transparency and responsible governance. As a member of DFK International we support clients locally and internationally with cutting-edge expertise and a personal touch.

We believe all clients deserve the same level of care innovation and excellence.

About the Team

Youll be joining our Accounts & Business Services (ABS) team the largest department in our growing business made up of 139 talented and passionate people.

In this role youll work closely with our Partners and teams (pods) who focus on the Property SME and Entertainment markets. Together youll provide compliance and advisory support helping clients navigate challenges and make confident decisions.

Were proud to be the trusted advisor for our owner-managed business (OMB) clients. They rely on us to solve complex problems and see us as their first point of contact for anything related to their business.

This is an exciting opportunity to step into an Early Director role and grow with us. Youll have a clear progression path with the potential to advance all the way to Partner.

A Message from the Hiring Team

Hi Im Jake and in this role youll manage client relationships across the Real Estate and OMB sectors supporting them with compliance advisory and tax services. Youll get exposure to a wide range of clients and have the chance to add real value to their businesses. We take a hands-on approach so youll be closely involved in shaping solutions and building trust.

If youre curious proactive and ready to grow wed love to hear from you.

When Im not working hard youll probably find me on the padel court or out on the golf course. So if you ever fancy a more active 1:1 we can catch up over a game on the court or on the course!

Your Opportunity

As an Associate Director within the ABS team you lead on the strategic and operational aspects aligning with the broader business objectives. You oversee your pods financial performance managing client portfolios to expand and optimise service delivery. A key responsibility is people management fostering development growth and high performance. You implement and adapt business strategies to meet market demands driving the firms long-term success. Transitioning from a manager to a portfolio owner you ensure strategic alignment promoting innovation and excellence within the organisation.

How Youll Make a Difference

• Make sure the work we deliver meets the highest technical standards and stays in line with changing regulations.

• Be the go-to person for complex technical questions offering clear practical advice to colleagues and clients.

• Use data to make smart decisions about resources pricing and how we deliver our services.

• Work closely with finance and leadership to keep budgets and forecasts on track.

• Drive improvements in how we work simplifying processes fixing recurring issues and making things more efficient.

• Delegate effectively giving managers ownership while staying accountable for overall results.

• Communicate big-picture goals and changes in a way that people understand and buy into.

• Build strong relationships across teams and with clients representing the firm confidently at events and meetings.

• Take the lead on key client relationships including high-level discussions and negotiations.

• Spot opportunities for new business and help turn them into real wins.

• Keep the client experience consistent and aligned with what we stand for as a firm.

• Keep learning and developing yourself while helping others grow and preparing future leaders.

• Play an active role in hiring and shaping the team for the future.

• Set the tone for ethics and integrity act quickly on risks and guide others through tricky situations.

• Be a visible leader who coaches challenges and inspires people to think strategically.

Youll Be Ideal for This Role If You Have:

Experience

• Significant experience within accounts and business services within a professional services firm.

• Proven ability to manage multiple engagements and oversee multiple teams.

• Experience in staff mentoring training and performance management.

• Experience and knowledge within the property sector.

Skills

• Strong technical expertise in accounting and financial reporting.

• Effective leadership and team management skills fostering collaboration and growth.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills capable of explaining complex financial matters clearly.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a focus on risk assessment and mitigation.

• Ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• ACA/ACCA (or equivalent) qualified (essential) with a practising certificate.

We know you have a lot to offer which is why we give you the freedom to thrive no matter who you are or what your background is.

Our Values

At BKL we live by five core values:

• Think Big Be curious brave and open to new ideas.

• In It Together Collaborate care and build an inclusive culture.

• Take Pride Strive for excellence and believe in your impact.

• Do the Right Thing Act with integrity honesty and fairness.

• Enjoy It Bring your whole self to work and have fun doing it.

Working With Us: Your Benefits Wellbeing & Development

At BKL were committed to creating a people-first workplace where everyone can thrive. We offer a carefully curated benefits package wellbeing support and meaningful development opportunities that empower you to grow your career.

Snapshot of our Benefits Package

Weve designed a flexible sustainable set of benefits to support your life at work and beyond:

• Private Medical Insurance (PMI) including mental health cover hospital treatment & 24/7 GP access

• Health Cash Plans covering everyday costs like dental optical & physiotherapy and an Employee Assistance Programme

• Pension scheme helping you save for retirement in a tax-efficient way

• Group Life Assurance peace of mind with financial protection for your loved ones

• Cashback & savings portal discounts across hundreds of high-street and online retailers

• Cycle to Work Scheme spread the cost of a new bike and accessories tax-free

• Electric Vehicle Scheme sustainable transportation options that include roadside support and servicing

• Free Mortgage Advice expert guidance for your home-buying journey

• Season Ticket Loan support with travel expenses

• Enhanced Family Leave generous leave policies for family-related needs

• Beneficial Annual Leave generous entitlement with the option to buy extra days off

Development & Growth

We dont just offer jobs we support careers:

• Clear development pathways and progression frameworks

• Professional qualifications support including study time and funding

• Internal mentoring coaching and buddying schemes

• Leadership development programmes to help you grow with us

• Regular check-ins and performance conversations driven by your goals not just metrics

Take Your Next Step

Ready to grow your career with a company that balances ambition with purpose Apply today and discover how far you can go at BKL.

Our recruitment process typically involves three stages:

1. An introductory Teams call with our Talent Acquisition team.

2. A first-stage interview with two team members.

3. A final interview at our London office including a tour to give you a feel for our working environment.

Compliance & Equal Opportunities

In addition to the responsibilities listed above you will be required to undertake GDPR training in order to fully understand the regulations and ensure all work is carried out in a compliant manner.

As part of any recruitment process BKL collects and processes personal data relating to job applicants. BKL is committed to being transparent about how it collects and uses that data and to meeting its data protection obligations.

BKL is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates eligible to work in the UK.