At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accounts, manage client portfolios, and provide financial advice.
- Company: Reputable accountancy practice with a modern, client-focused approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for progression.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with exposure to cloud accounting technologies.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on diverse clients.
- Qualifications: ACA qualified with experience in accountancy practice and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: Downpatrick
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum
Our client is a long-established and highly respected accountancy practice with a strong reputation for delivering tailored financial and advisory services to SMEs, owner-managed businesses, and growing organisations across Northern Ireland. With a modern and client-focused approach, the firm provides a full range of services including accounts preparation, tax compliance, payroll, VAT, cloud accounting, and business advisory support.
Due to continued growth, they are now seeking an experienced Qualified Accountant to join their Belfast office.
The Role
This is an excellent opportunity for a practice-trained accountant looking to join a supportive and professional environment with exposure to a varied client portfolio. The successful candidate will take ownership of accounts preparation, tax work, and client communication, working closely with a range of businesses across multiple sectors. The role would suit an ACA-qualified accountant coming from an accountancy practice environment who enjoys building strong client relationships and delivering high-quality work.
Key Responsibilities
- Preparation of year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies
- Preparation and submission of corporation tax and personal tax returns
- Managing a portfolio of clients and acting as a key point of contact
- Providing support and advice to clients on financial and accounting matters
- Reviewing bookkeeping records and ensuring compliance with accounting standards
- Preparing VAT returns and management accounts where required
- Liaising directly with clients to resolve queries and gather financial information
- Supporting junior team members where appropriate
- Working with cloud accounting software including Xero, Sage, and QuickBooks
Essential Criteria
- ACA qualified (or equivalent qualification considered)
- Previous experience within an accountancy practice environment
- Strong experience preparing accounts for a variety of clients
- Experience with corporation tax and personal tax preparation
- Excellent communication and client relationship skills
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage deadlines
Desirable Criteria
- Experience working with cloud accounting systems such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks
- Exposure to management accounts and advisory work
- Ability to manage a client portfolio independently
Why Apply?
- Join a highly reputable and established accountancy practice
- Exposure to a broad and varied client portfolio
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Opportunity for long-term progression and development
- Modern, cloud-focused practice with strong technical expertise
Chartered Accountant employer: Ashton Recruitment
Join a highly reputable and established accountancy practice in Downpatrick, where you will benefit from a supportive and collaborative work environment that prioritises employee growth and development. With exposure to a diverse client portfolio and a modern, cloud-focused approach, this role offers the opportunity to enhance your skills while building strong client relationships in a thriving sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chartered Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join local accountancy groups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships in the field; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best work, including accounts you've prepared and tax returns you've managed. When you meet potential employers, having tangible examples of your expertise can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Mock interviews with friends or mentors can help you feel more confident. We recommend focusing on common questions for accountants and preparing specific examples that highlight your experience and client relationship skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of opportunities tailored for qualified accountants like you. Don’t miss out on the chance to join a modern, client-focused practice that values your expertise and offers great career progression.
We think you need these skills to ace Chartered Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Chartered Accountant role. Highlight your ACA qualification and any relevant experience in accountancy practice to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team, focusing on your client relationship skills and your passion for delivering high-quality work.
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your previous roles, be specific about your responsibilities, especially in accounts preparation and tax work. We want to see how you've managed client portfolios and resolved queries effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashton Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially around year-end accounts and tax returns. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your expertise in preparing accounts for different types of clients.
✨Showcase Your Client Skills
Since this role involves managing client relationships, think of instances where you've successfully communicated complex financial information to clients. Prepare to share how you’ve built strong relationships and resolved any issues that arose.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Cloud Accounting
As the firm uses cloud accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, make sure you’re comfortable discussing your experience with these tools. If you haven’t used them extensively, consider doing a quick online tutorial to get familiar with their features.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm’s approach to client management and how they support their accountants. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
