[Hiring] Client Manager / Senior Bookkeeper @Essential HR

Role Description

Are you a brilliant Bookkeeper who knows their stuff, loves working with clients and enjoys being part of a team that genuinely has each other's backs? We're looking for an experienced Client Manager / Senior Bookkeeper who brings more than just great technical skills. We want someone who's proactive, approachable, takes ownership and enjoys making life easier for their clients and colleagues.

If you're confident in Xero, have hands-on Employment Hero Payroll experience, and love the variety of managing multiple clients, this could be your next great move!

You'll take ownership of your own portfolio of clients, becoming their trusted go-to person for all things bookkeeping, payroll and financial administration. You'll also play an important role in supporting the wider team, sharing your knowledge, reviewing work and helping everyone deliver their best.

This isn't a traditional people management role. It's about leading by example, being someone others can rely on and contributing to a positive, collaborative team environment.

What you'll be doing:

• Managing your own portfolio of clients and building genuine, lasting relationships.
• Delivering accurate, timely end-to-end bookkeeping, payroll, BAS and financial reporting.
• Using Xero and Employment Hero Payroll to keep everything running smoothly.
• Managing multiple client priorities, deadlines and compliance requirements.
• Providing guidance, mentoring and support to colleagues.
• Reviewing work, sharing knowledge and helping maintain high standards.
• Finding smarter, more efficient ways of doing things.
• Being a proactive problem-solver who takes ownership and gets things done!

Qualifications

• Solid experience (7+ years) in end-to-end bookkeeping and managing client portfolios to a consistently high standard.
• Hands-on Employment Hero Payroll experience – a strong priority for this role!
• Extensive Xero experience and strong knowledge of Australian GST, BAS, and IAS requirements.
• Hands-on experience in a bookkeeping practice or similar environment.
• Experience managing payroll, superannuation, and Award compliance.
• A relevant qualification in Accounting, Bookkeeping or Accounts Administration, and/or BAS Agent credentials.
• Strong attention to detail, organisational skills, and the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• Confidence providing direction, constructive feedback, and quality oversight without formal people management responsibilities.
• Excellent communication skills and a friendly, approachable, and client-focused attitude.
• A proactive, solutions-focused mindset and willingness to take ownership.
• Experience providing bookkeeping and payroll services to clients in the childcare sector, including an understanding of industry-specific payroll and Award requirements is highly regarded.

Benefits

• 100% Remote: Enjoy the flexibility of working from home (Victoria).
• Great Team Culture: Join a friendly, down-to-earth, and supportive team that genuinely values collaboration.
• Own Your Portfolio: Build meaningful client relationships and take responsibility for delivering quality outcomes.
• Leadership Without the Formal Management: Share your expertise, mentor colleagues, and help drive team performance without direct line management responsibilities.
• Variety and Autonomy: Work across a diverse client portfolio, with opportunities to use your technical expertise and problem-solving skills.
• Make an Impact: Contribute ideas, improve processes, and help deliver exceptional outcomes for clients and colleagues.

Company Description

If you're an experienced Bookkeeper who loves their work, enjoys working with people and has the Xero and Employment Hero Payroll skills we're looking for, we'd love to hear from you!

Apply now with your resume outlining your relevant experience and why this opportunity is the right fit for you.

Applicants are required to currently be in Australia with full permanent working rights to be considered.