Manager - Business Services

New Vacancy – Business Services Manager Reporting to: Director / Partner Direct Reports: 0–5 Department: Business Services Office: Droitwich or Worcester – 60 % office based Qualification: ACA or ACCA About Ballards: At Ballards, we're more than accountants, we're trusted business advisers, strategic partners, and problem solvers. Since 1985, we've been helping ambitious businesses, charities, and private clients achieve sustainable growth through expert accountancy, tax, audit, and consultancy services. Today, with over 150 talented colleagues across the Midlands, we're proud to be one of the region's fastest-growing independent firms. Our success is built on lasting relationships, exceptional client service, and a collaborative, people-first culture where everyone has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. What sets us apart is our integrated approach. Alongside our market-leading accounting and tax expertise, we provide specialist consultancy in technology transformation, talent strategy, and brand and digital marketing, enabling us to deliver innovative, forward-thinking solutions that help our clients succeed in an ever-changing world. Joining Ballards means becoming part of a progressive and ambitious firm that invests in its people, encourages innovation, and supports professional development at every stage of your career. If you're looking to build your future with a firm where your ideas are valued, your development is championed, and your work makes a real difference, we'd love to hear from you. The Opportunity At Ballards, we believe exceptional client service begins with exceptional relationships. As a Business Services Manager, you'll manage a diverse client portfolio, work closely with Directors and Partners, lead and develop colleagues, and deliver high-quality accounting, tax and advisory services while contributing to the continued growth of the Business Services team. Key Responsibilities Manage a portfolio of business clients, delivering accounting, tax and advisory services. Act as the primary point of contact, building trusted client relationships. Review statutory accounts, corporation tax and personal tax returns. Lead client meetings and provide commercial advice. Ensure compliance work is completed accurately and on time. Coordinate bookkeeping, VAT and management accounting services. Identify advisory and cross-selling opportunities. Monitor WIP, billing and portfolio profitability. Support fee proposals and onboarding of new clients. Lead, coach and mentor Assistant Managers, Seniors, Associates and Trainees. Delegate work effectively and support team development. Champion innovation, technology and continuous improvement. Person Specification Qualifications ACA or ACCA Qualified (Essential) • Additional tax or advisory qualifications (Desirable) Knowledge & Experience Strong accountancy practice background • Experience managing a client portfolio • Strong technical accounting and taxation knowledge • Experience reviewing work and mentoring others • Commercial awareness and WIP management experience Skills & Attributes Excellent communication and relationship-building skills • Strong commercial awareness • Excellent organisation and attention to detail • Confidence using cloud accounting technology • Collaborative leadership style • Ability to manage competing deadlines • Commitment to continuous improvement Why Join Ballards? At Ballards, we believe in 'The Speed of Knowing You'. We invest in our people through structured development, supportive leadership, hybrid working, modern technology and genuine opportunities for career progression.