Audit Manager

Location: Manchester

About the Role

Are you an experienced audit professional ready to take real ownership of a client portfolio and lead a high-performing team?

Our client is seeking an Audit Manager to take responsibility for the effective leadership, delivery, and management of a portfolio of audit clients, reporting directly to the Audit Senior Manager and Responsible Individual (RI)

What You'll Be Doing

Portfolio and Technical Delivery

• Manage an audit client portfolio with fees of up to £500k per annum, ensuring all assignments are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Prepare audit files in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs), ensuring they are of the appropriate standard for Senior Manager and RI review.
• Take full operational ownership of audit engagements, covering planning, execution, review, and completion.
• Manage budgets and fee targets proactively, monitoring WIP, billing, and recoverability to support strong portfolio performance and cash collection.

Client Relationships

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients within the office, maintaining strong professional relationships and keeping stakeholders informed of progress, issues, and deliverables throughout the audit process.
• Proactively identify opportunities to add value to clients and introduce other firm services where appropriate.

Team Leadership

• Lead audit teams collaboratively, ensuring colleagues at all levels are involved, informed, and empowered. Delegate work clearly, providing ownership and responsibility without unnecessary centralisation.
• Develop, retain, and motivate junior staff by acting as a role model, holding regular development and feedback conversations to support performance and progression.

Compliance and Quality

• Oversee the appropriate onboarding and offboarding of clients within the portfolio, in line with ISQM 1, AML regulations, and firm policies.
• Review work completed by junior team members, resolving issues prior to Senior Manager or RI review, and support departmental training and CPD initiatives.

Business Development

• Support the Senior Manager and partners in business development activities, including tender preparation and client pitches.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience working in a professional practice environment at Audit Manager level, with a demonstrable track record of managing an audit portfolio and maintaining strong client relationships.
• ACA or ACCA qualified (or equivalent), with a minimum of 2 years' post-qualification experience and at least 7 years' experience in audit.
• Strong technical knowledge of auditing standards and relevant regulatory requirements.
• The ability to act as a visible, reliable leader, maintaining professional conduct and sound judgement, particularly during periods of challenge or organisational change.

Ambition is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

If this job isn't quite right for you, but you know someone who would be great at this role, why not take advantage of our referral scheme? We offer £200 in shopping vouchers for every referred candidate who we place in a role. Terms & Conditions Apply.