At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accounts, VAT returns, and support clients with bookkeeping and payroll.
- Company: Join Harland Accountants, a growing independent practice in Cornwall.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, healthcare, birthday off, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy hybrid working and be part of an award-winning team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while building strong client relationships in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 3 qualified or working towards, with experience in accounting practices.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Role at a Glance
Accounts Assistant Falmouth or Helston Based / Hybrid
Competitive Salary Plus Healthcare Benefits, Birthday Off, Career Development & More
Full Time - Permanent
Working Hours: 9am - 5pm with flexibility considered
Hybrid Working: 3 Days Office Based
Reporting to: Client Managers
Culture: Growth Mindset | Strong Relationships | Generosity of Spirit
Your Background / Skills:
- Accounts Preparation
- VAT Returns
- Payroll
- Bookkeeping
- Xero
- KashFlow
- Client Support
- Cloud Accounting
Qualifications:
- AAT Level 3 qualified (or working towards)
- QBE
- Studying ACCA / ICAEW
Who we are
Harland Accountants is a growing independent accountancy practice supporting businesses and individuals across Cornwall and beyond. We’re passionate about helping businesses succeed and equally passionate about creating an environment where our own people can grow, develop and enjoy meaningful careers. Our culture is built around three core values: Growth Mindset, Strong Relationships and Generosity of Spirit. We believe in supporting each other, building trusted client partnerships and continuously improving how we work and develop as a team.
As the business continues to grow, we’re looking for someone who enjoys variety, values client relationships and wants to be part of a collaborative, forward-thinking practice environment. Working closely with Client Managers, you’ll support the smooth delivery of client work across a varied portfolio, helping ensure deadlines are met and clients receive a responsive and professional service.
This is a broad and varied role offering exposure across accounts, VAT, bookkeeping and payroll, making it ideal for someone looking to continue building their accounting career within a progressive practice environment. Importantly, this is not a role for someone who wants to sit quietly behind emails all day. We’re looking for someone who enjoys speaking with clients, building relationships and becoming a trusted part of the client experience.
What your day might look like:
- Preparing accounts and tax returns for a portfolio of clients
- Drafting financial statements to a high standard
- Preparing and submitting VAT returns in line with Making Tax Digital requirements
- Supporting clients with bookkeeping systems including Xero and KashFlow
- Resolving bookkeeping, VAT and payroll queries from clients
- Supporting payroll processing and related client administration
- Working closely with Client Managers to deliver high-quality client service
- Attending client meetings and supporting follow-up actions
- Managing your own workload across multiple assignments and deadlines
- Supervising and supporting Trainee Accounts Assistants
- Supporting the smooth running of systems and internal processes
- Providing reception cover where required
About You:
- AAT qualified to at least Level 3, or working towards qualification
- Alternatively qualified by experience or studying ACCA / ICAEW
- Previous experience within an accountancy practice environment
- Strong working knowledge of bookkeeping, VAT and payroll
- Experience using cloud accounting systems such as Xero or KashFlow
- Good understanding of Making Tax Digital requirements
- Comfortable speaking confidently with clients and building relationships
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- AI-curious and open-minded towards new technologies and ways of working
- Proactive, reliable and solutions-focused
- Able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
- Positive team player with strong communication skills
- Full right to work in the UK without sponsorship requirements
Why Join Harland Accountants:
- Join an award-recognised and growing independent practice
- Hybrid working with flexibility built around trust and collaboration
- Genuine career development and progression opportunities
- Supportive and people-first culture
- Opportunity to work closely with clients and make a real impact
- Modern cloud-accounting focused environment
- Friendly, collaborative and ambitious team
- Be part of one of Cornwall’s Top 10 Employers
Accounts Assistant in Helston employer: Harland Accountants | B Corp
Harland Accountants is an award-recognised independent practice located in Cornwall, offering a supportive and people-first culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a hybrid working model, competitive salary, and unique benefits such as birthday off and career progression opportunities, we foster strong relationships and a collaborative environment where you can make a meaningful impact on clients' success. Join us to be part of a friendly team that values your contributions and encourages a growth mindset.
Contact Details:
Harland Accountants | B Corp Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Assistant in Helston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture before your interview. Check out their website and social media to see how they interact with clients and what values they promote. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're a great fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves building relationships with clients, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some questions to ask during your interview. This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals. Think about what you want to know regarding their growth mindset and client relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It also gives you another chance to express your enthusiasm for the role and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Assistant in Helston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Accounts Assistant role. Highlight your AAT qualifications, bookkeeping experience, and familiarity with Xero or KashFlow. We want to see how you fit into our culture of growth and strong relationships!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're excited about joining Harland Accountants and how your values align with ours. Don’t forget to mention your client relationship skills and your proactive approach to problem-solving.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves client interaction, make sure to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. Use clear and concise language, and maybe even share an example of how you've built strong client relationships in the past.
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 any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harland Accountants | B Corp
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially around VAT returns, payroll, and bookkeeping. Be ready to discuss your experience with Xero or KashFlow, as these are key tools for the role.
✨Show Your People Skills
Since this role involves client interaction, practice how you would build relationships with clients. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated or resolved issues in a previous job.
✨Demonstrate Your Growth Mindset
Harland Accountants values a growth mindset, so be prepared to share how you've learned from past experiences. Highlight any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them to improve your skills.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture and the team you'll be working with. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
