Who Are We
At Knight Frank, we work responsibly in partnership to enhance people’s lives and environments. Founded in 1896 and headquartered in London, UK, Knight Frank is one of the world's leading independent real estate consultancies. After 128 years we are now located in over 50 Territories, 740+ Offices, 27,000+ People, with 1 Global Network.
At the heart of all we do are our Clients. A relationship built on trust is vital. As trusted partners in property, we act with integrity and care, understanding our clients’ unique needs and consistently thinking about the bigger picture to provide personalised, clear and considered advice across all areas of property. Through our deep understanding of key markets and sectors – both emerging and established – we are dedicated to meeting and exceeding their property goals.
A true partnership is a balanced one, and our People are passionate about, and committed to, making our business inclusive and diverse. We give every individual the space and opportunity to perform at their best and be recognised for the immense value they bring. We empower everyone to have autonomy in their role and encourage them to use their voice in how we can make a positive impact as a firm and shape the future of real estate, the built environment and the impact on the communities we serve. Our collaborative and engaged teams provide excellent and dedicated client service. In our workplace, opinions are respected, everyone is invited to contribute to the success of our business and innovation, and new ideas are celebrated.
In 2021 we celebrated our 125th anniversary and set out Our Desired Future, cemented in three pillars: People Potential, Client Centricity and always Creating our Future, together. Learn more about what sets us apart here.
About The Role
We are looking to recruit for a qualified and experienced finance professional to cover a maternity leave in the role of Head of Rural Client Finance within our Rural Consultancy division.
This pivotal role oversees the financial management of our rural client base, ensuring exceptional standards in compliance, reporting, and service delivery. You will lead a small, dedicated finance team, work closely with consultants across the division, and build strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
While a background in property, rural or real estate is desirable, it’s not essential, what matters most is your ability to combine strategic oversight with hands-on operational expertise in a collaborative and client-focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up and manage new client accounts in line with RICS regulations and internal procedures
- Review and approve supplier payments and VAT returns
- Oversee and approve monthly payroll (and process payroll if needed)
- Prepare and review client reports, fee proposals, budgets, and year-end accounts
- Support the rural team in managing cloud-based finance systems (Xero, Dext, Fathom)
- Ensure timely billing and effective fee flow management across the portfolio
- Maintain robust internal controls and financial procedures
- Prepare terms of business and carry out client due diligence
- Liaise with RICS and external auditors as necessary
- Lead and develop a small finance team, ensuring a smooth handover and continuity
About You
- ACCA or ACA qualified
- Proven track record managing a portfolio of clients in a Finance Manager role
- Confident in payroll processing and compliance
- Strong understanding of RICS client money rules and VAT partial exemption
- Skilled in preparing and reviewing year-end accounts
- Comfortable managing a team and operating at both strategic and operational levels
- Highly proficient in Xero, Dext, Fathom, BrightPay, and IRIS Accounts Production
- Strong systems knowledge with the ability to troubleshoot and support colleagues
Contract Type: 12-month fixed-term contract (maternity cover)
Location: Flexible with hybrid working – ideally based in the South of the UK
Travel: Occasional travel to our Bristol office and London HQ at 55 Baker Street
If you’re a finance leader with the skills, professionalism, and drive to make a real impact in a client-focused role, we’d love to hear from you. For more details on our Rural Consultancy business, please click here.
Competitive salary
Please note: this is a Direct Search led by Knight Frank. Applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted nor will fees be paid for unsolicited CVs, even if provided by PSL agencies.
