Job Description

I am seeking an experienced Audit Director/Partner to join the Leeds office of a PE backed accountancy firm as a Responsible Individual (RI). This is a senior leadership role offering the opportunity to build and develop the audit practice in the region while maintaining the highest standards of audit quality and regulatory compliance.
Regulatory Leadership

• Act as Responsible Individual (RI) for the Leeds office audit practice
• Maintain audit registration and regulatory standing with appropriate professional bodies
• Oversee audit quality monitoring and ensure adherence to the audit methodology

Audit Practice Leadership

• Lead and direct a portfolio of significant audit engagements
• Sign audit opinions on statutory and regulatory audits as engagement partner
• Mentor and develop audit managers and senior staff

Client Relationship Management

• Build and maintain relationships with key audit clients and prospects
• Identify opportunities for cross-selling other services
• Participate in tender processes for new audit appointments

Business Development

• Develop new client relationships and expand existing client services
• Represent the firm at industry events and professional forums
• Work with marketing team on thought leadership and business development initiatives

Exceptional starting packageOpportunity for LTIP
Professional Qualifications

• ACA or ACCA qualification with valid audit qualification
• Registered as Responsible Individual (RI) or eligible for registration
• Minimum 10+ years post-qualification experience in audit
• Substantial experience as an audit engagement Director

Technical Expertise

• Comprehensive knowledge of UK GAAP, FRS 102, and IFRS
• Expert understanding of ISAs (UK) and audit methodology
• Experience with FRC regulatory framework and inspection processes
• Knowledge of relevant sector-specific audit requirements
• Understanding of emerging audit technologies and data analytics

Leadership & Management

• Proven track record in senior audit leadership roles
• Experience managing and developing audit teams
• Strong commercial acumen and business development skills
• Excellent client relationship management capabilities
• Track record of successful audit practice growth

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with listed company audits and complex group structures
• Public sector or regulated industry audit experience
• Experience with audit technology and data analytics tools
• Previous experience as RI or similar regulatory role
• MBA or other relevant business qualification
• Active involvement in professional bodies or industry committees

This firm is one of the UK's leading independent chartered accountancy and business advisory firms, with over 800 staff across multiple offices throughout the UK. They provide a comprehensive range of services including audit, tax, corporate finance, and business advisory to a diverse client base ranging from SMEs to large corporations and public sector organisations.
The Leeds office is a key part of their expansion strategy, serving clients across Yorkshire and the broader North of England region.
Compensation & Benefits

• Highly competitive partner-level compensation package
• Equity participation opportunities within the Group
• Comprehensive benefits including pension, healthcare, and life assurance
• Flexible working arrangements including hybrid options

Career Opportunity

• Join a rapidly growing and ambitious firm with national presence
• Opportunity to build and lead the audit practice in a key strategic location
• Potential for broader group responsibilities and career progression
• Work with high-profile clients across diverse industry sectors