At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accounts, manage client relationships, and support tax compliance in a friendly team.
- Company: Forward-thinking accountancy practice with a strong community focus.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full ACCA study support, and a caring work environment.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and grow your career in a values-driven organisation.
- Qualifications: 3 years of practice experience and AAT qualified; ACCA PQ preferred.
- Other info: Excellent long-term career progression and a commitment to staff wellbeing.
Location: Ashford, Kent
Salary: £25,000 – £35,000 (DOE) plus benefits
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
Diamond Search Recruitment are exclusively representing a highly respected and forward-thinking accountancy practice based in Ashford. With a diverse client portfolio ranging from individuals and sole traders to SMEs and large limited companies, our client offers comprehensive accountancy services delivered with professionalism, care, and integrity. They are a values-driven organisation with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, community involvement, and a genuinely supportive, friendly culture. This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated Accounts Assistant or Semi-Senior looking to grow within a caring and ambitious practice.
The Role
As an Accounts Assistant / Semi-Senior Accountant, you will work within a supportive team to deliver high-quality accountancy services to a varied client base. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing year-end accounts and financial statements
- Producing management accounts
- VAT & CIS returns
- Supporting tax compliance and responding to HMRC queries
- Providing excellent client service and maintaining strong relationships
- Working on ad hoc projects as required
Requirements
To be successful, you will need:
- 3 years practice experience (essential)
- AAT qualified
- ACCA PQ / or looking to study ACCA (with study support)
- Strong experience with Xero
- Excellent Excel skills, including formulas
- Strong technical knowledge across accounts preparation, VAT and tax
- High attention to detail and strong analytical ability
- Confident communication skills and a proactive, positive attitude
What’s on Offer
- Salary: £25,000 – £35,000, plus benefits.
- Full ACCA study support
- Opportunity to work with a varied and interesting client base
- Friendly, values-led culture with strong CSR commitment
- Supportive leadership team and excellent long-term career progression
- A caring employer who invests in staff development and wellbeing
If you have the skills and experience required and you are looking to join a progressive, supportive, and socially responsible accountancy practice, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today or contact Diamond Search Recruitment for a confidential discussion.
Accounts Assistant in Ashford employer: Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Assistant in Ashford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accountancy field, attend local meetups, or join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Since this role is with a values-driven organisation, be ready to discuss how your own values align with theirs. Show them you’re not just about the numbers!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As an Accounts Assistant, you'll need to maintain strong relationships with clients. Role-play common scenarios with a friend to boost your confidence and ensure you come across as approachable and professional.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love hearing from motivated candidates who are eager to grow within a supportive team.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Assistant in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your AAT qualification, Xero experience, and any relevant practice experience to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you’re passionate about accountancy and how you align with our values of professionalism and community involvement. Let us see your personality!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t just list your skills; provide examples of how you've used them in previous roles. Whether it’s preparing year-end accounts or handling VAT returns, we want to know how you’ve made an impact.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Diamond Search Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially around year-end accounts and financial statements. Be ready to discuss your experience with VAT, CIS returns, and any specific projects you've worked on that relate to the role.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Make sure you’re familiar with Xero and Excel, as these are crucial for the position. Prepare examples of how you've used these tools in past roles, particularly any complex formulas or reports you've created.
✨Demonstrate Your Client Service Skills
Think of instances where you've provided excellent client service. Be prepared to share how you maintained strong relationships and handled any challenging situations with clients, showcasing your proactive attitude.
✨Align with Their Values
Research the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community involvement. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their supportive culture.