Job title: R&D (Research & Development) Account Manager
Salary: Negotiable depending on experience
Location: Manchester or Northampton (office-based)
Reporting to: Director

We are seeking a candidate with current/recent R&D experience. This role is ideal for an experienced account executive seeking a career advancement or an established account manager looking for a change. It may also suit someone from a sales background who has a strong emphasis on account management.

About CBTax

CBTax is an award-winning, global R&D tax consultancy firm with offices in Manchester and Northampton in the UK, Dublin serving the Republic of Ireland, and our newest location in New York supporting the US market.

As one of the fastest-growing firms in our sector, we specialise in R&D Tax Relief, partnering with businesses across many sectors including engineering, technology, manufacturing, construction, energy, science, agriculture, and food & beverage to deliver robust claims, commercial value, and fully compliant advice.

We’re looking for high-performing, commercially minded problem-solvers who want to make a tangible impact. There has never been a more exciting time to join CBTax as we continue our international growth.

Role summary:
As the first Account Manager in our new department, you will play a pivotal role in shaping how we manage client portfolios post-sale. You will take ownership of a portfolio of existing clients, acting as their dedicated first point of contact and project manager.

The focus is on relationship building, service delivery, and client satisfaction — ensuring deliverables (such as R&D claim preparation, submissions, and ongoing support) are completed on time, queries are handled promptly, and the client-CBTax partnership remains strong and proactive. This role separates account management from sales to prioritise long-term client success.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for an assigned portfolio of clients, building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships.
  

• Act as project manager for client deliverables: coordinate with internal teams to ensure R&D Tax Relief claims, reports, and other services are delivered accurately and on time.
  

• Proactively reach out to clients for regular check-ins, updates on their projects, and to identify any emerging needs or opportunities for additional support (without direct sales pressure).
  

• Monitor client satisfaction, resolve issues swiftly, and escalate complex matters to technical specialists as needed.
  

• Maintain accurate records of client interactions, project status, and deliverables using CRM system.
  

• Contribute to the development of best practices for the new account management function, as the pioneering hire in this division.
  

• Support client retention and long-term partnership growth through excellent service and proactive communication.

Must haves

• Proven experience as an Account Manager, Client Manager, or similar client-facing role in R&D, tax advisory or professional services (Minimumminimum 5+ years).

• Strong track record of managing client portfolios, building/maintaining relationships, and acting as the key point of contact.

• Confidence in proactively reaching out to clients (phone & email) and conducting regular relationship management activities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust quickly and handle client queries professionally.

• Strong organisational and project management skills to coordinate deliverables and meet deadlines.

• Comfortable working autonomously in a new/establishing function, with the initiative to shape processes.

• Understanding of client service excellence in B2B/professional services environments.

• A full UK driving licence

Benefits & perks

• Commission: Although this isn’t a sales role, you are able to build your own portfolio through client referrals and earn commission.
  

• Pension: 5% employer pension contribution.
  

• Healthcare: Bupa healthcare to support your health and well-being.
  

• Tech Scheme: Access to the latest technology.
  

• Flex Benefits: Tailor your perks to suit your lifestyle.
  

• Employee Incentives: A range of excellent employee incentives to ensure your efforts are rewarded.
  

• Recognition: Get seen. Get rewarded. Get promoted.

Why this role & why CBTax?

If you're an experienced professional who excels at client relationships and wants to help build something new while ensuring clients receive outstanding ongoing support, we'd love to hear from you.

Please note: This role does not qualify for visa sponsorship. Only candidates with existing right to work in the UK will be considered.