Head of Financial Services Team

We are seeking an exceptional leader to establish and head up a new Financial Services Team within our Dublin-based accountancy and advisory firm. This is a key strategic appointment at a senior leadership level, ideal for a commercially astute and technically proficient professional with deep experience across the financial services landscape.

The successful candidate will have full responsibility for building and leading this division—covering audit, risk, regulatory advisory, and consulting services—while actively working with our PKF international network on cross-border clients, shared engagements, and global opportunities.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a new service line in a growth-focused, ambitious firm with a strong domestic client base and global affiliations.

Key Responsibilities

- Develop and execute the vision, structure, and strategy for the Financial Services Division
- Define key service offerings across assurance, regulatory compliance, and advisory
- Represent the division on the firm’s leadership team and contribute to overall firm strategy

Client Management & Development

- Act as the lead advisor for key financial services clients, particularly regulated entities in insurance intermediaries, investment management, credit unions, and fintech
- Deliver high-quality, commercially focused advice on audit, regulatory matters, risk frameworks, solvency and capital adequacy, and accounting standards
- Build and manage long-term client relationships, ensuring satisfaction and identifying growth opportunities

International Collaboration

- Work with fellow PKF member firms in our international network, including PKF LIttlejohn, the number 1 Financial Services firm in the UK, to deliver cross-jurisdictional engagements and share technical expertise
- Represent the Dublin office in international working groups and conferences within the network
- Lead or contribute to global account teams for multinational clients headquartered or operating in Ireland

Technical Excellence

- Ensure compliance with Irish and EU regulatory standards, including IAASA oversight, Central Bank of Ireland rules, Solvency II,IFRS(including IFRS 17), and EIOPA guidance
- Oversee technical quality and risk management for FS client work
- Act as the internal expert for emerging regulations and industry developments

Team Building & People Development

- Recruit and grow a high-performing FS team, including audit and advisory professionals
- Provide ongoing coaching, mentoring, and career development support
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and client-centric service

Key Requirements

Professional Qualifications:

- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CPA or equivalent);post-qualification specialisation in Financial Services preferred
- Additional certifications such as CFA, CERA, or PRM are an advantage

Experience:

- Minimum 10–12 years’ experience in professional services or financial services, with significant time spent in client-facing roles
- Proven track record leading audit or advisory services to financial institutions—particularly in the insurance intermediary area
- Demonstrated leadership of complex engagements and multi-disciplinary teams

Skills:

- Strong understanding of Irish, UK and international financial reporting standards and regulatory regimes
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, including experience presenting to boards, regulators, and C-suite clients
- Strategic mindset with the ability to drive commercial results while maintaining professional and ethical standards
- Confident in working across jurisdictions and collaborating in a networked environment
- Demonstrated track record of delivering high-quality audit outcomes, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and firm methodologies, while maintaining a coaching-oriented approach to support continuous improvement and capability development within audit teams

Who This Role Would Suit

This role would suit a senior professional looking to move into a Partner-designate position, or an established director/partner in a larger firm seeking a more entrepreneurial leadership opportunity with clear impact and visibility. You’ll have the ability to shape and grow a team while leveraging the firm’s established client base and global connections.

What We Offer

- Competitive salary and bonus
- Leadership autonomy within a respected and growing firm
- Strong international network and support structure
- A flexible, modern work environment with hybrid options
- Opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to Ireland’s financial sector ecosystem

Application Process

To express interest, please submit a CV and tailored cover letter outlining:

- Your vision for building a Financial Services Division
- Experience working with insurance intermediary clients and international stakeholders

All applications will be treated in strict confidence.

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DUBLIN 4 OFFICE

Argyle Square
Morehampton Road
Donnybrook
Dublin 4
D04 W9W7 Ireland

DUBLIN 7 OFFICE

Unit 218/219 The Capel Building
Mary's Abbey
Dublin 7
D07 CR23
Ireland

PKF Brenson Lawlor Limited is a firm of Chartered Accountants authorised by Chartered Accountants Ireland to carry out investment business.

Company Registration Number: 74552
Registered in Ireland.

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