At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare accounts and tax returns for diverse SME clients in a supportive environment.
- Company: Growing Belfast-based accountancy practice focused on client service and professional development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working options, study support, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with various SMEs and enhance your skills in a dynamic setting.
- Why this job: Join a friendly team and make a real impact on local businesses.
- Qualifications: Part-qualified or qualified accountant with 2-3 years of practice experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated General Practice Accountant to join our growing Belfast-based SME accountancy practice. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality accounts preparation, personal and corporate tax compliance, and general advisory services to a diverse portfolio of local small and medium-sized businesses across Northern Ireland. This role is ideal for a qualified accountant (part-qualified or accounts technicians with relevant experience will be considered) with practice experience, who enjoys variety, takes ownership of their workload, and thrives within a supportive practice environment where client service and professional development are prioritised.
Key Responsibilities
- Accounts Preparation
- Prepare year-end financial statements for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies in accordance with UK GAAP (FRS 102/105).
- Complete management accounts for clients as required.
- Perform bookkeeping tasks, reconciliations, and adjustments where necessary to ensure accurate reporting.
- Liaise directly with clients to gather required information and resolve queries promptly and professionally.
- Prepare corporation tax returns (CT600) and supporting schedules.
- Prepare personal tax returns (SA100) for directors, business owners, and individuals.
- Assist with VAT return preparation and Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliance.
- Identify basic tax planning opportunities and communicate these proactively to senior staff or clients.
- Act as a day-to-day point of contact for a portfolio of SME clients across a range of sectors.
- Provide guidance on bookkeeping systems, cloud accounting solutions (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage), and general business queries.
- Support clients with compliance deadlines and ensure work is completed in a timely manner.
- Build strong working relationships with clients based on trust, efficiency, and technical competence.
- Assist with workflow planning and job scheduling to meet practice-wide deadlines.
- Support junior team members where required, offering guidance and review of routine work.
- Contribute to process improvements and the adoption of technology to enhance productivity and client service.
Required Skills & Experience
- Part-qualified or qualified ACA / ACCA / AAT, or qualified by experience within a general practice environment.
- Minimum 2-3 years' experience in an accountancy practice handling accounts preparation and tax compliance.
- Strong working knowledge of accounting standards relevant to UK SMEs (FRS 102/105).
- Experience with cloud accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage.
- Competent with tax software and practice management tools.
- Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills and confidence interacting with clients.
- Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines in a busy SME practice environment.
Desirable Attributes
- Experience working with Northern Ireland-based SMEs and familiarity with local business sectors.
- Knowledge of payroll and CIS (although not essential).
- Willingness to support business development activities where appropriate.
- A proactive mindset with an interest in continuous learning and professional growth.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary aligned with experience and qualifications.
- Hybrid/flexible working options (where appropriate).
- Study support (if applicable) and ongoing professional development.
- Friendly, collaborative team environment within a growing Belfast practice.
- Exposure to a broad range of SME clients and varied work to support long-term career development.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Accountant - General Practice (No Audit) in Lisburn employer: HAYS Specialist Recruitment
Contact Detail:
HAYS Specialist Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accountant - General Practice (No Audit) in Lisburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. 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 practising common interview questions. Tailor your answers to highlight your experience with accounts preparation and tax compliance, as these are key for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your work or case studies that demonstrate your expertise in cloud accounting software and tax compliance. This will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Accountant - General Practice (No Audit) in Lisburn
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your accounts preparation and tax compliance experience, as well as any relevant software knowledge like Xero or QuickBooks.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for our team. Share specific examples of how you've handled client relationships or improved processes in your previous roles.
Showcase Your Qualifications: If you're part-qualified or have relevant experience, make it clear! We want to see your ACA, ACCA, or AAT qualifications prominently displayed, along with any other relevant training you've completed.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at HAYS Specialist Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially UK GAAP and tax compliance. Be ready to discuss how you've prepared financial statements and handled tax returns in previous roles. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but can apply it practically.
✨Showcase Your Software Skills
Familiarise yourself with cloud accounting software like Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage. Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've used these tools to improve efficiency or client service in your past work. This will demonstrate your technical competence and adaptability.
✨Client Communication is Key
Think of examples where you've successfully liaised with clients to resolve queries or provide guidance. Highlight your communication skills and how you build strong relationships based on trust and efficiency. This is crucial for a role that involves direct client management.
✨Be Proactive About Learning
Express your interest in continuous professional development and any steps you've taken to enhance your skills. Whether it's attending workshops or pursuing further qualifications, showing a proactive mindset will resonate well with the interviewers looking for someone who thrives in a supportive environment.