Audit Director (Responsible Individual) – Southampton

About the role

This is a senior leadership appointment within a top UK professional services firm. The Audit Director RI will lead high‑profile audit engagements, advise boards and senior executives, and help shape the firm’s growth in the South region.

Key responsibilities

• Lead a portfolio of complex audit clients, including listed companies, international groups and PE‑backed organisations.
• Act as strategic adviser to audit committees, boards and senior management on governance, growth and regulatory change.
• Drive expansion of the South audit practice through client service excellence, networking and business development.
• Identify and convert new opportunities across existing clients and the wider market.
• Collaborate with Partners to define regional growth strategy and investment plans.
• Lead, mentor and develop a large audit team, preparing future managers, directors and partners.
• Champion audit quality, technical excellence and innovation.
• Take increasing responsibility toward Responsible Individual (RI) status with full support.
• Contribute to succession planning and the future leadership of the Southampton office.

Required profile

• Recognised senior leader within a Top 20 or larger accountancy practice.
• ACA or ACCA qualification.
• Extensive experience leading large, complex audit engagements.
• Strong exposure to listed companies, international groups and sophisticated privately owned businesses.

Required skills

What we offer

• Hybrid working model.
• Salary range £120,000‑£140,000 per year plus bonus.
• Clear pathway to Responsible Individual status and partnership.
• Opportunity to work with prestigious clients and a growing regional practice.