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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a portfolio of SME clients and oversee high-quality accounting work.
- Company: Barley Grove, a modern accountancy practice in Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real impact on client success.
- Qualifications: ACCA or ACA qualified with 5+ years of experience in accountancy.
- Other info: Enjoy a flexible work environment and opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Location: Hertford, Hertfordshire (on-site, hybrid flexibility available after probation)
Job Type: Permanent, Full-time
Start Date: ASAP
About Barley Grove
Barley Grove is a modern, forward-thinking accountancy practice based in Hertfordshire, supporting clients across the UK. We specialise in SMEs, start-ups, and owner-managed businesses, offering a full range of accounting, tax, and advisory services. Our team combines professional expertise with a personal approach — providing proactive guidance, clear communication, and tailored financial solutions that help businesses grow with confidence. We pride ourselves on strong client relationships, transparency, and trusted long-term partnerships.
The Role
We are seeking a highly experienced ACCA or ACA qualified Senior Manager to join our growing team in Hertford. This is a senior, client-facing position focused on managing a portfolio of owner-managed business clients, overseeing internal workflows, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality work across the practice. You will play a key role in reviewing accounts and tax work prepared by junior team members, managing processes and deadlines, and acting as a trusted point of contact for clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing a dedicated portfolio of SME and owner-managed business clients.
- Acting as the primary client-facing contact, providing clear guidance and building long-term relationships.
- Reviewing year-end accounts, financial statements, and tax compliance work prepared by junior staff.
- Delegating work effectively across the team to ensure efficiency and quality control.
- Leading internal processes to ensure deadlines are met and work is delivered to a consistently high standard.
- Supporting and mentoring junior accountants, trainees, and client executives.
- Overseeing bookkeeping, VAT, and management reporting tasks where required.
- Using modern cloud-based systems (Xero, QuickBooks, Karbon, TaxCalc) to deliver an excellent client experience.
- Working closely with leadership to maintain operational excellence and support the continued growth of the firm.
About You
This role is suited to someone who enjoys responsibility, autonomy, and being deeply involved in both client delivery and internal team management. We are looking for:
- ACCA or ACA qualified
- Minimum 5 years PQE within an accountancy practice (recent practice experience required).
- Proven experience managing a portfolio of clients within an SME-focused practice environment.
- Strong client-facing communication skills and confidence advising business owners.
- Demonstrable experience reviewing work and managing workflows across multiple deadlines.
- A proactive, organised, and detail-oriented approach with high professional standards.
- Strong working knowledge of cloud accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks, Karbon, BrightPay, and TaxCalc.
- Tax experience is highly desirable.
What You’ll Get
We know great people deliver great work, so we aim to create an environment where you can thrive. Benefits include:
- Salary of £60,000 – £75,000, depending on experience.
- Hybrid working and flexible hours, built around trust and outcomes.
- 21 days annual leave + bank holidays.
- Employer pension contribution.
- Discretionary annual bonus (performance-based).
- Free on-site parking.
- A friendly, supportive, high-performing team where your ideas are valued.
Senior Accountant (ACCA/ACA Qualified or Qualified by Experience) in Hertford employer: Barley Grove Chartered Certified Accountants
Contact Detail:
Barley Grove Chartered Certified Accountants Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Accountant (ACCA/ACA Qualified or Qualified by Experience) in Hertford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accounting world, attend industry events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Barley Grove and understanding their client base. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their focus on SMEs and owner-managed businesses. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in what they do!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills during the interview! Bring examples of your past work, especially any experience with cloud accounting software like Xero or QuickBooks. This will demonstrate your hands-on expertise and how you can hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and highlighting a key point from your conversation can keep you top of mind. Plus, it shows you’re proactive — just what they’re looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Accountant (ACCA/ACA Qualified or Qualified by Experience) in Hertford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your ACCA or ACA qualifications and any relevant experience managing a portfolio of clients. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Senior Accountant role. Share specific examples of your client-facing experience and how you've successfully managed workflows in the past.
Showcase Your Tech Savvy: Since we use modern cloud-based systems like Xero and QuickBooks, mention your experience with these tools in your application. We love candidates who are comfortable with technology and can help us deliver an excellent client experience.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, we love seeing applications come through our own channels!
How to prepare for a job interview at Barley Grove Chartered Certified Accountants
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Accountant, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial statements and tax compliance. Brush up on the key figures from your previous roles and be ready to discuss how you've managed client portfolios effectively.
✨Showcase Your Client Management Skills
This role is all about building relationships with clients. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated with business owners and provided tailored advice. Highlight any long-term partnerships you've developed.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Qualities
You’ll be overseeing junior staff, so it’s crucial to show your mentoring abilities. Think of specific instances where you’ve guided team members or improved workflows, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Cloud Accounting Tools
Barley Grove uses modern cloud-based systems like Xero and QuickBooks. Make sure you’re comfortable discussing your experience with these tools and how they can enhance client service. If you’ve used similar software, mention that too!
