Part-Time Bookkeeper in Crowborough

Glow Accounts is looking for an experienced part-time Bookkeeper to support bookkeeping, VAT returns, payroll support and day-to-day client communication for SME and sole trader clients.

About Glow Accounts

Glow Accounts is a modern, fast-growing accountancy practice supporting sole traders, limited companies, and SMEs across the UK. We combine cloud accounting technology with a personal, proactive approach to help clients stay organised, compliant, and confident in their finances. Unlike traditional firms, we focus heavily on relationships, communication, and practical support. Our goal is not just to “do the books,” but to help clients feel looked after and supported as their businesses grow.

About The Role

This is a part-time hybrid role focused on bookkeeping, payroll support, client communication, and helping ensure work flows smoothly across the practice. You’ll work closely with the senior team to help manage the day-to-day operational side of client delivery, allowing senior staff to focus on higher-level advisory and growth work.

The Role Combines:

• Bookkeeping
• Payroll support
• Client communication
• Workflow coordination
• Supporting outsourced bookkeeping delivery

It’s ideal for someone who enjoys variety, likes building client relationships, and takes pride in keeping things organised and moving forward. This is not a purely behind-the-scenes bookkeeping role. Communication, responsiveness, and client service are a big part of the position. We’re looking for someone who takes ownership, follows things through properly, and helps ensure clients receive a consistently high level of service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Complete bookkeeping tasks for a portfolio of SME and sole trader clients
• Prepare and submit VAT returns
• Support payroll processing across multiple clients
• Liaise directly with clients to request information and resolve queries
• Help ensure monthly bookkeeping and compliance work is completed accurately and on time
• Review work completed by outsourced bookkeeping support teams
• Monitor deadlines and proactively follow up where information is missing
• Assist with management reporting and month-end processes where required
• Use Xero and cloud accounting systems to maintain accurate records
• Support the practice in delivering a high level of customer service and responsiveness
• Help identify issues early and elevate where appropriate
• Work closely with the wider team to support smooth day-to-day operations
• Support the practice in delivering a friendly, responsive, and reliable client service

What We’re Looking For:

Experience:

• Minimum 3 years’ bookkeeping experience
• Strong preference for accountancy practice experience
• Experience working across multiple clients and industries
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced multi‑client environment
• Exposure to payroll processing is beneficial

Qualifications:

• One of the following is preferred: AAT Level 3 or 4, ICB / IAB qualification, or equivalent practical bookkeeping experience
• Strong practical experience will also be considered in place of formal qualifications.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of bookkeeping fundamentals
• VAT return experience
• Familiarity with payroll processes
• Experience using Xero preferred
• Comfortable working with cloud accounting software
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills

Some payroll processing responsibilities will form part of the role. Training can be provided where needed, but candidates must be willing to take on payroll support as part of the position.

Soft Skills:

• Friendly and approachable
• Comfortable speaking with clients
• Organised and reliable
• Proactive and responsive
• Calm under pressure
• Good at managing expectations and prioritising workload
• Able to work independently without needing close supervision

Strong communication skills are essential for this role.

Working Pattern:

• Part-time role
• Typically 3-4 half days per week to start
• Hybrid working available
• One office morning per week preferred
• Candidates should be UK‑based and available during agreed working hours

There is potential for hours to grow over time as the practice continues to expand.

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 FTE, pro rata depending on experience. Equivalent to approximately £16 - £18 per hour, depending on the agreed working pattern
• Flexible working environment
• Friendly, supportive team culture
• Exposure to a wide variety of businesses and industries
• Opportunity to grow with a modern accountancy practice
• Real ownership and autonomy in the role

Ideal Candidate:

• Enjoys working with people as much as numbers
• Wants flexibility and autonomy
• Likes helping things run smoothly
• Takes pride in delivering excellent service
• Enjoys being part of a growing modern practice

Apply:

If you’re an experienced bookkeeper looking for a flexible role within a growing practice where client relationships genuinely matter, we’d love to hear from you.