Senior Service Charge Accountant

Senior Service Charge Accountant will oversee the preparation, review, and reconciliation of service charge budgets and accounts for a diverse property portfolio. Day-to-day responsibilities include managing annual service charge cycles, producing accurate statements, analyzing variances, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, lease terms, and industry best practice. The role involves working closely with property managers, asset managers, and external stakeholders to clarify cost allocations, answer service charge queries, and support transparent communication with residents and clients. The Senior Service Charge Accountant will also drive process improvements, maintain robust financial controls, and provide guidance to junior team members. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Manchester. Qualifications

• Strong experience in service charge accounting, including budgeting, reconciliations, year-end accounts, and variance analysis for residential and/or commercial property portfolios.
• Solid understanding of property and housing sector regulations, lease structures, RICS service charge guidance, and best practice in service charge management.
• Proficiency with accounting software and property management systems, as well as strong Excel skills for data analysis and reporting.
• Excellent analytical, numerical, and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and the ability to interpret complex financial information.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, able to explain financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders and respond professionally to queries.
• Proven ability to manage deadlines, prioritize workload, and work collaboratively within a fast-paced property or real estate environment.
• Relevant professional qualifications or part-qualification (e.g., ACCA, CIMA, ACA) or equivalent experience in property/real estate finance.
• Experience at senior or lead level in service charge or property accounting, with the ability to mentor and support colleagues.