Business Services Manager (Legal Sector)

Armstrong Watson is on a journey to more than double our turnover by 2030, through disciplined organic growth, the attraction of outstanding talent, and the selective acquisition of like-minded firms. Our strategic intent is to become the most respected adviser to privately owned businesses in the North and the UK. We aim to build a top Accounting and Financial Advisory firm across the UK, grounded in exceptional service, deep expertise, trusted relationships, and absolute reliability.

What you will find here:

• A firm with clear direction and momentum
• Clients who value advice and relationships
• Colleagues who care about doing things properly
• A culture built on Passion, Trust, Humanity and Honesty
• Genuine opportunity to shape your career as the firm grows

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 specialist Legal Sector team based in either Leeds or Carlisle.

As a Legal Sector specialist Business Services Manager, you will manage a diverse portfolio of Legal clients, ranging from basic to large and complex assignments. Your main goal will be to ensure that clients receive exceptional service while fostering strong teamwork, performance, and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership for a portfolio of basic/large/complex Business Services clients
• Ensure completion and submission of financial statements, business taxation and personal taxation for all clients by required deadlines
• Oversee and provide technical support to Business Services Assistants and Seniors; perform 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 guarantee compliance with internal standards and readiness for client review
• Attend and contribute to client meetings as required by the Business Services Partner
• Build professional relationships with clients and encourage referrals to Armstrong Watson
• Develop a network of professional contacts that can generate new business opportunities
• A Full UK Driving Licence
• EITHER ICAS, ACA or ACCA qualified
• Experience working in an accounting capacity at an accountancy practice
• Ambitious and keen to drive the team forward
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
• A dedicated team player who assists colleagues when possible
• Capable of prioritising workloads under strict deadlines and working well under pressure
• Shows initiative and strong organisational/problem-solving skills
• Desire to become part of a dynamic team

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus structure
• Salary sacrifice employer contribution pension scheme including life cover (4× salary) and income protection
• Competitive annual leave entitlement (with purchase scheme for up to 5 additional days per year)
• Smart working policy enabling home and remote working balance
• Health Shield Cash Plan - cash back on health benefits and discounts on holidays, fashion and entertainment
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support for wellbeing and health)
• Paid flu jabs and eye tests
• Introductory commission scheme for new client referrals
• Employee referral scheme providing up to £2,500 per referral
• Investment in continuous professional development (CPD) access to training courses and materials
• Paid professional membership fees