At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage bookkeeping for diverse clients and prepare VAT returns.
- Company: Join a supportive and ambitious team at SMH Group in Leeds.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, study support, and life assurance.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and a vibrant team culture.
- Why this job: Gain varied experience while making a real impact in finance.
- Qualifications: Experience in accountancy with strong VAT and bookkeeping skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 € per year.
Please do not apply if you are outside of the UK. Applicants must be based near Leeds or within commutable distance.
We’re looking for a Practice Bookkeeper – VAT & Management Accounts to join our growing Leeds team, supporting a wide portfolio of clients across a range of industries. This is an excellent opportunity for someone currently working in practice, or an individual in industry who prepares management accounts and is now looking for more variety by working with multiple clients.
At SMH Group, we offer a full suite of financial and professional services to our clients, including Accountancy, Financial Services, Wills & Probate, Commercial Finance, Residential Mortgages, and Corporate Finance. With over 170 employees across 10 offices in Yorkshire and Derbyshire, we pride ourselves on creating a supportive, inclusive, and ambitious workplace where you can grow and shape your future.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Managing bookkeeping for a range of clients (mainly on Xero & QuickBooks)
- Preparing and submitting VAT returns (including partial exemption and complex queries)
- Producing monthly and quarterly management accounts
- Posting journals (prepayments, accruals, wages, depreciation, adjustments)
- Completing balance sheet reconciliations and correcting client records
- Liaising with clients and managing deadlines
- Working closely with the wider team to support year-end accounts
About You
- Experience in an accountancy practice or in‑house finance role with month‑end and management accounts responsibility
- Confident preparing and submitting VAT returns
- Strong working knowledge of bookkeeping principles and journals
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines
- Good communication skills and a client‑focused approach
- Proficiency in Xero and QuickBooks (experience with Dext/Hubdoc advantageous)
- Ideally AAT qualified or qualified by experience
What We Offer
- Study support for professional qualifications
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays (with the option to buy more)
- Life Assurance – 4x salary
- Eye test contribution
- Volunteering opportunities and regular social events
- Staff discounts on Wills, LPAs, and mortgages
- Supportive team culture and career progression
At SMH Group, we believe our people are our greatest strength. Guided by our core values of being Client Centric, acting as One Firm, and Caring for our people, clients, and communities, we’re committed to giving everyone the confidence to grow and shape their future.
How to Apply
Apply directly on LinkedIn or send your CV to HRadmin@smh.group.
Practice Bookkeeper – VAT & Management Accounts (Leeds) employer: SMH Group
At SMH Group, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment in Leeds, where our employees can thrive and develop their careers. With a strong emphasis on professional growth, we offer study support for qualifications, generous holiday allowances, and a vibrant team culture that encourages collaboration and social engagement. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that values your contributions and empowers you to shape your future in the accountancy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Bookkeeper – VAT & Management Accounts (Leeds)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local meetups, or join online forums. 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 its culture. Understand their values and how they align with yours. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely wants to be part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Get a friend to do mock interviews with you, focusing on common questions for bookkeeping roles. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Practice Bookkeeper – VAT & Management Accounts (Leeds)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your bookkeeping experience, especially with VAT returns and management accounts, to show us you're the right fit for our Leeds team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you want to join SMH Group and how your background aligns with our values. Be genuine and let your personality shine through – we love to see the real you!
Showcase Your Software Skills:Since we work mainly with Xero and QuickBooks, make sure to mention your proficiency with these tools. If you've got experience with Dext or Hubdoc, don't forget to include that too – it could give you an edge!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep everything organised and makes it easier for you to track your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at SMH Group
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your bookkeeping principles and VAT regulations before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with Xero and QuickBooks, as well as any complex VAT returns you've handled. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the tools but also understand the intricacies of the role.
✨Showcase Your Client Management Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully liaised with clients in the past. Highlight your ability to manage deadlines and communicate effectively, as these are crucial for the Practice Bookkeeper position. Think of specific situations where you resolved client queries or improved their experience.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since this role requires a keen eye for detail, be prepared to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work. You might want to share examples of how you’ve completed balance sheet reconciliations or corrected client records, showcasing your meticulous approach.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team culture, opportunities for professional development, or how they support employees in achieving qualifications. This shows your genuine interest in the company and the role, making you stand out as a candidate.
