Accountant – Team Lead (General Practice ) in Dunstable

We are an established, independently owned accountancy practice based in Dunstable, Bedfordshire. We serve a broad portfolio of owner‑managed businesses, micro and small companies, sole traders, and individuals across the local area and beyond. Our ethos is straightforward: build lasting relationships, deliver accurate and timely work, and take the stress of compliance off our clients' shoulders.

This is a hands‑on senior position combining technical delivery with team leadership. You will take ownership of a client portfolio spanning micro companies, small limited companies, and sole traders, managing all aspects of their compliance requirements from bookkeeping through to filed accounts and tax returns. You will also supervise and develop junior members of the team, review their work, and help maintain the practice's reputation for quality and accuracy.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage bookkeeping and accounts preparation for a portfolio of micro and small companies, sole traders, and partnerships
• Prepare statutory accounts under FRS 105 and FRS 102 Section 1A for small and micro entities
• Carry out bank reconciliations, purchase/sales ledger maintenance, and month/year‑end procedures
• Prepare management accounts as required for client reporting purposes
• Prepare and file VAT returns in compliance with HMRC Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements
• Advise on and administer VAT schemes including flat rate, cash accounting, and annual accounting
• Handle VAT registrations, deregistrations, and scheme changes
• Liaise with HMRC on VAT enquiries, correspondence, and disputes
• Prepare and file Self Assessment tax returns (SA100 / SA103) for individuals, sole traders, and directors
• Prepare Corporation Tax computations and CT600 returns for small limited companies
• Manage PAYE / RTI submissions and employer obligations, including P60s, P11Ds, and year‑end returns
• Handle HMRC agent authorisations (64‑8 and online), correspondence, and enquiries
• File annual accounts (micro, small, full, and dormant) via Companies House web‑filing and software
• Prepare and submit confirmation statements (CS01), including officer and PSC updates
• Assist with company incorporations, dissolutions, and statutory register maintenance as required
• Proactively manage filing deadlines and communicate upcoming obligations to clients
• Supervise, review, and sign off work produced by junior and trainee accountants
• Plan and allocate workload across the team to ensure deadlines are met
• Mentor and develop junior colleagues, providing constructive feedback and on‑the‑job training
• Act as the primary client relationship manager for an allocated portfolio
• Contribute to continuous improvement of practice workflows and procedures

Essential Skills & Experience

• ACA, ACCA, or AAT (Level 4 and above) qualified – full or part‑qualified considered with significant relevant experience
• Minimum 5 years' experience working within a UK accountancy practice environment
• Demonstrable general practice background with a varied client portfolio
• Strong technical knowledge of micro/small company bookkeeping and accounts preparation
• Thorough understanding of VAT including MTD requirements and common VAT schemes
• Solid working knowledge of Companies House filing obligations, processes, and penalties
• Confident handling of HMRC processes: self‑assessment, corporation tax, PAYE/RTI, and agent services
• Experience supervising or leading a small team within a practice setting
• Proficiency in cloud accounting software (Xero, Capium, QuickBooks, or equivalent)
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, and ability to prioritise under pressure
• Clear and professional communication skills, both written and verbal

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Practice management software experience
• Experience with payroll processing and year‑end payroll submissions
• Familiarity with company incorporation and dissolution procedures
• Experience preparing management accounts for owner‑managed businesses
• Structured mentoring or coaching experience within a practice environment

What We Offer

• Competitive salary of £38,000 – £45,000 per annum, commensurate with experience
• Permanent, full‑time position with a supportive and friendly team
• Genuine career development and progression opportunities within the practice
• Varied and interesting client work across multiple industries and business structures
• Central Dunstable location with good transport links

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or background.