Associate Director, Fund Accounting

Associate Director, Fund Accounting

Job Title: Associate Director, Fund Accounting

Reporting to: Head of Funds

Direct reports: Manager, Funds and Corporate

Job Purpose

To provide accounting and bookkeeping services to client entities in accordance with local and international regulatory / legal requirements and in line with Whitmill’s internal policy and procedures.

Key Result Areas

Leadership & Client Management:

• Serve as the primary contact for an allocated client portfolio, ensuring exceptional service and proactive communication.
• Support the Head of Funds in managing strategic client relationships and delivering key business objectives.
• Contribute to business development by identifying and pursuing new opportunities and supporting firm-wide growth initiatives.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to implement the team’s growth strategy and drive performance.
• Provide leadership, mentoring, and guidance to junior team members to support their professional development.
• Manage and strengthen client relationships, representing the funds team in meetings and external engagements.

Technical Delivery:

• Prepare and review NAV calculations, consolidated reports, and statutory financial statements in accordance with IFRS, UK GAAP, or other relevant standards.
• Oversee audits, regulatory filings, and ensure timely completion of all statutory and compliance obligations.
• Review and analyse financial information supporting financial statements, ensuring the correct treatment of business transactions.
• Manage VAT reporting, debt covenant reporting, and other key financial deliverables.
• Collaborate with external advisors and internal teams to resolve accounting queries and support high-quality client delivery.
• Provide input into pricing, proposals, and service delivery for new business opportunities.

Process & Governance:

• Implement and maintain effective accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Drive continuous improvement in financial and operational processes to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Lead the take-on and set-up of new clients, ensuring a smooth transition of work into the business.
• Represent the funds team on internal committees and cross-functional projects.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory and statutory reporting deadlines, as well as internal policies and AML obligations.

Skills and Experience

• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including fund structures and standards such as IFRS, UK GAAP, or US GAAP.
• Proven leadership skills with experience mentoring and developing team members.
• Strong numerical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Excel and other relevant financial systems (knowledge of Allvue or similar software advantageous).
• Prior experience in private equity, real estate, or alternative funds preferred (training can be provided).
• Confident and proactive communicator, capable of influencing stakeholders and leading client engagements.
• Demonstrated experience driving process improvements and operational efficiency.
• Deep understanding of key agreements related to private equity and real estate structures, including LPAs, debt documents, SPAs, and leases.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively both independently and as part of a team.      

Qualifications

• ACA or ACCA (or equivalent) part-qualified or qualified, or with 3+ years’ relevant experience in a comparable role.