Accounts Senior

Are you an experienced practice accountant who would like more than simply preparing the next set of accounts?

We are working with a highly regarded accountancy firm that is looking to add an Accounts Senior to its growing Colchester team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys delivering high-quality accounts work but would also like to become more commercially involved, build stronger client relationships and contribute to the continued development of the office.

You will manage a varied workload for owner-managed businesses across a broad range of sectors, working closely with senior colleagues and Partners. Alongside the technical responsibilities, you will be encouraged to attend local events, develop your professional network and help identify opportunities to support both existing and prospective clients.

This is not a heavily targeted sales role. It would suit someone who is naturally confident with clients, commercially curious and keen to play a visible part in the growth of a successful team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts and corporation tax returns for limited companies.
• Prepare accounts for sole traders and partnerships.
• Assist with personal, business and partnership tax computations and returns.
• Prepare VAT returns and support clients with digital accounting requirements.
• Manage assignments from initial records through to completion, ensuring work is accurate and delivered to deadline.
• Communicate directly with clients, resolving queries and developing trusted working relationships.
• Maintain high-quality working papers and files in accordance with internal standards.
• Use cloud-based accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks and Sage.
• Support and provide guidance to more junior members of the team where appropriate.
• Work closely with colleagues and specialist teams to provide a joined-up service to clients.
• Identify opportunities where the firm could provide additional support or advice.
• Participate in appropriate networking, marketing and business development activities.
• Contribute ideas to the continued growth and development of the Colchester office.

About You

You will ideally:

• Have previous experience within an accountancy practice.
• Be AAT qualified, ACA or ACCA part-qualified, qualified by experience, or recently qualified.
• Have experience preparing accounts for limited companies, sole traders and partnerships.
• Be comfortable communicating directly with clients.
• Have good knowledge of cloud accounting software and Excel.
• Be organised, accurate and able to manage competing deadlines.
• Take a proactive and commercially aware approach to client service.
• Enjoy building relationships and be interested in becoming involved in networking and business development.
• Be keen to develop your career and take on greater responsibility as the team grows.

Previous business development experience is not essential. More important is the confidence and enthusiasm to build relationships, represent the firm positively and spot opportunities when speaking with clients.

What's on Offer

• A varied, client-facing role within a successful and growing regional practice.
• Genuine scope to develop your responsibilities as the Colchester team expands.
• Direct exposure to senior colleagues and Partners.
• Support with professional development and further study where required.
• The opportunity to build your own profile and network in the local business community.
• A friendly, people-focused working environment.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package