At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as an Accounts Associate, working with high-profile clients and diverse projects.
- Company: Saffery LLP, a leading UK accountancy firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a 35-hour work week, hybrid policy, 25 days leave, and profit-sharing.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to inclusion and personal development.
- Why this job: Grow your accounting skills in a dynamic environment with excellent training and support.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part-qualified CA/ACCA with strong numeracy and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Our Edinburgh office is looking for a talented individual to join us as an Accounts Associate within our Accounts team. The successful candidate is expected to be an enthusiastic AAT qualified or partially CA/ACCA qualified accountant who is keen to grow their technical skills in a supportive team environment.
The role is client facing and fast paced, including advisory elements and often dealing with high profile clients. The work is varied and ranges from typical year end compliance through to ad‑hoc advisory and project work. The client base includes sole traders, partnerships, limited companies, limited liability partnerships, trusts and smaller private charities. This permanent role would suit an AAT, ACCA/CA part‑qualified accountant seeking to consolidate their knowledge of accounts, compliance and trusts, while building on their advisory, client management and supervisory skills.
The candidate would be responsible for working on a variety of clients’ affairs, including:
- Preparation of year‑end financial statements
- Taking ownership of ad‑hoc advisory projects
- Review of work prepared by other members of the team
- Work planning and annual timetabling
- Billing and financial management
- Cross‑departmental communication
- Building and maintaining client relationships
Experience of preparing year end accounts using accounts production software such as CCH or an equivalent is also required.
The Office: Our Edinburgh office is home to 5 partners and over 65 staff. Our modern, purpose‑built office space in Haymarket Square, which recently opened in 2024, is within walking distance of the city centre with easy access to bus, tram and national rail services.
The Team: The accounts department has experienced high growth in recent years and offers an exciting variety of work with great development opportunities. The team currently consists of 13 members of staff of varying levels of experience and responsibility. You will have the opportunity to work closely with clients, alongside the partners, to deliver a high‑quality service. All team members are provided with high levels of training and one‑to‑one support to help them achieve their personal career objectives.
You should preferably be AAT qualified or part way through CA/ACCA qualification, with some prior experience of working in practice. Strong numeracy and analytical skills, along with the ability to learn quickly, are essential. A good knowledge of Excel and Word is required, and understanding of other accounting systems would be helpful but is not essential. You should be self‑motivated and pro‑active, with the ability to organise your own workload, display a flexible, professional approach, and communicate effectively with managers, partners and clients. Being a natural team player with a positive and enthusiastic attitude, excellent eye for detail, and strong organisational skills is important. You should be able to work on multiple jobs at once and thrive in a pressured environment.
Reward and benefits include a 35 hour working week and a hybrid working policy with a minimum of 2 days in the office (core hours are 10‑4). Excellent benefits include a contributory pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, Life Assurance cover, and great flexible benefits and family friendly policies. Eligibility for the firm’s Profit‑Sharing Plan is also included, paid in December.
About Us: Saffery LLP is an adviser to individuals and businesses across a range of sectors, providing market‑leading accountancy, audit, business advisory, tax and VAT services. Founded in 1855, we are the UK’s 15th largest accountancy firm. When you work with us at Saffery, you work with people who know your name, not just a job title. We’re committed to our clients, but also to our greatest asset – our people. As a proud member of Nexia, a leading international network of independent accounting and consulting firms, we’ve got access to local insight on a global scale.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Equality, diversity and inclusion is a top priority for us. With our ED&I strategy, Everyone Belongs, we are building on our positive work culture and implementing initiatives to improve diversity and strengthen our equitable culture of inclusion, led from the top. We hope you will apply to us, whatever your background, ethnicity, gender, age, sexuality, disability or neurodivergence, because individual differences equal collective strength. Built on values of excellence, integrity, enthusiasm and collegiality, Saffery is where Potential meets Personal.
Accounts Associate in Edinburgh employer: Saffery Champness
Saffery LLP is an exceptional employer located in the heart of Edinburgh, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a commitment to training and one-on-one support, our Accounts Associate role provides a unique opportunity to engage with high-profile clients while enjoying a flexible working environment, competitive benefits, and a strong focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Associate in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Saffery LLP and understand their values, culture, and the type of clients they work with. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building connections can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to accounts and client management. Think about examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills and how you can contribute to the team at Saffery.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can leave a lasting impression and keep you top of mind as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Associate in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Accounts Associate role. Highlight your AAT or CA/ACCA qualifications and any relevant experience in preparing year-end financial statements or working with clients.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle advisory work and client relationships.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your strong numeracy and analytical skills. If you have experience with accounting software like CCH, make sure to mention it. We love candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saffery Champness
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Accounts Associate, you'll be dealing with financial statements and compliance. Brush up on your accounting principles and be ready to discuss your experience with year-end accounts preparation. Familiarise yourself with the software mentioned in the job description, like CCH, so you can confidently talk about your technical skills.
✨Show Your Client-Facing Skills
This role involves working closely with clients, so it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed client relationships in the past. Think about times when you provided advice or resolved issues, as these will showcase your ability to handle high-profile clients.
✨Be Proactive and Organised
The job requires a self-motivated individual who can manage multiple tasks under pressure. During the interview, share specific instances where you took the initiative or organised your workload effectively. This will highlight your proactive nature and ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Enthusiasm
Saffery LLP values a positive team player attitude. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Share your enthusiasm for working in a supportive team environment and how you contribute to a positive workplace culture. This will resonate well with their focus on collegiality and personal growth.
