Business Services Manager (Legal Sector)

About UsBuild something exceptional, with us...Our ambition is clear and openly bold.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.But growth alone is not the goal.Reputation is.And reputation is earned, not inherited.Our strategic intent is simple to say and hard to deliver.To become the most respected adviser to privately owned businesses in the North and the UK.The firm business owners talk about.The firm lawyers and bankers recommend without hesitation.To achieve this, we are building the best Accounting and Financial Advisory firm to deal with, not just in the North, but across the UK. Exceptional service, deep expertise, trusted relationships, and absolute reliability define everything we do. These are not slogans; they are standards we hold ourselves to every day.At our core, we exist for one reason, to help our clients achieve prosperity, a secure future, and peace of mind.This strategy sets the direction.Our people, our values‑led culture, and our standards will deliver it.We are looking for people who want more than the next job. People who care deeply about:Standards and professionalismDoing work they are proud to put their name toBuilding long‑term client relationshipsBeing part of a firm with real momentum and intentIf you want to grow with a business that is ambitious, values‑driven, and serious about excellence, Armstrong Watson offers opportunity and expectation in equal measure.What you will find here: A firm with clear direction and momentumClients who value advice and relationshipsColleagues who care about doing things properlyA culture built on Passion, Trust, Humanity and HonestyGenuine opportunity to shape your career as the firm growsThis is our moment, and our vision is clear, to build something genuinely remarkable.The RoleAre 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. We would also accept applications from suitable individuals working from one of our other office locations. This is a fantastic opportunity for those eager to develop and progress to a Business Services Senior Manager position with direct client responsibility. As a Legal Sector specialist Business Services Manager, you will be responsible for managing a diverse portfolio of Legal clients, ranging from basic to large and complex assignments. Your main goal will be to ensure that our clients receive exceptional service whilst also focusing on team collaboration, performance and engagement. If you are passionate about delivering excellence and ready to advance in your career, we would love to hear from you! The main elements of this role will include:Taking ownership for a portfolio of basic / large / complex Business Services clientsBeing responsible for the completion and submission of financial statements, business taxation and personal taxation for all clients within your portfolio by the required deadlinesOverseeing and providing technical support to Business Services Assistants and Seniors. You will also be responsible for completing line management duties (1-1s, Annual and Quarterly Goal Setting Meetings, Student Review Meetings etc) Resolving more complex queries relating to assignments and liaising directly with our clientsReviewing assignments which have been prepared by Business Services Assistants and Seniors to ensure they comply with our requirements and are ready for client review Attending and contributing to client meetings as required by the Business Services PartnerForming good and professional relationships with clients, creating an environment whereby clients feel happy to refer their contacts to Armstrong WatsonBuilding your own network of professional contacts, which will hopefully result in generating new business Please note that we will be accepting candidates from agency suppliers in connection with this vacancy.The CandidateIn order to fulfil the responsibilities of the position, we would like candidates to be / have:A Full UK Driving LicenceEither ICAS, ACA or ACCA qualified Experience of working in an accounting capacity at an Accountancy PracticeAmbitious, and keen to drive the team forwardComfortable working in a fast-paced environmentA dedicated team player, and willing to assist colleagues in the team where possibleAble to prioritise workloads under strict deadlines and work well under pressureAble to use initiative and have great organisation / problem solving skillsKeen to become part of a dynamic teamThe BenefitsIn return for your hard work helping us shape our future growth and development; we will provide a competitive salary and a positive benefits package which includes: Salary Sacrifice Employer Contribution Pension Scheme including Life Cover (4x salary) and Income ProtectionCompetitive Annual Leave entitlement & Annual Leave Purchase Scheme allowing you to buy up to 5 additional days annual leave each yearSmart Working Policy, giving you the ability to balance home and remote workingHealth 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 wellbeing and health)Paid flu jabs and eye testsIntroductory Commission Scheme (financial reward if you refer a new client)Employee Referral Scheme (financial reward if you refer new AW colleagues) enabling you to claim up to 2,500 for each referralInvestment towards Continuous Professional Development (CPD), which includes access to comprehensive training courses and materialsPaid professional membership feesIn addition to all the benefits you would expect from an award winning employer, you will be given the utmost encouragement and support to develop your career further.When you're with us... we're with you.DepartmentBusiness Services Employment TypeFull TimeWorkplace typeHybrid