At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage client portfolios, prepare financial reports, and provide advisory support.
- Company: Award-winning accounting practice with a people-first culture in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, healthcare cover, and enhanced holiday allowance.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and shape your career in a values-led environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in preparing management accounts and clear communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and personalised progression pathways.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 35000 £ per year.
This is an opportunity to step into a senior role within a growing, award-winning accounting practice where flexibility, trust and quality genuinely underpin how work gets done. You’ll take ownership of a client portfolio, deliver meaningful advisory support and build a career that can progress in several directions. W&A is supporting a well-established, Xero-focused accountancy practice based in Edinburgh as they continue to expand their team. Known for high standards, strong client relationships and a people-first culture, the firm has grown consistently through reputation and referral.
As Accounts Senior, you will manage a portfolio of clients, acting as a trusted finance partner and ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality management information. The role combines hands-on technical work with advisory input, supervising day-to-day finance activity and helping clients truly understand their numbers.
Key Responsibilities- Prepare monthly or quarterly management accounts for a portfolio of clients.
- Produce and explain financial reports including P&L, balance sheet, cashflow forecasts, budgets and variance analysis.
- Review and improve client systems and processes to ensure efficient, high-quality delivery.
- Prepare, review and submit VAT returns.
- Oversee and support transactional processing completed by clients or colleagues.
- Prepare journals, reconciliations and working papers, maintaining balance sheet controls.
- Liaise with external accountants on statutory accounts and tax matters.
- Support new business activity and attend client and prospect meetings where required.
- Provide calm, people-first support to small business owners.
- Experience preparing management accounts within a practice or multi-client environment.
- The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-finance stakeholders.
- A good understanding of regulatory and compliance requirements.
- An appreciation of strong financial systems and controls.
- A hands-on, collaborative approach suited to a growing team.
- Experience with Xero and its app ecosystem is beneficial but not essential.
- A working knowledge of payroll is helpful, though not required.
- Salary of £32,000 – £35,000 (FTE), depending on experience.
- Fully flexible working – hybrid, remote or office-based, full-time or part-time.
- CPD support covering professional subscriptions, exams, study and events.
- Healthcare cover or enhanced pension contributions.
- Clear, personalised progression pathways aligned to your ambitions.
- Regular 1:1s and structured six-monthly reviews.
- Enhanced holiday allowance, including your birthday off if you choose.
- Paid wellness days and an active social calendar.
- Join a values-led, award-winning practice with flexibility built into its culture.
- Work with engaged clients who value insight, not just compliance.
- Shape a progression pathway that could include leadership, specialism, study or licensing.
- Be part of a supportive, collaborative team that genuinely puts people first.
If this role sounds of interest to you, please contact Laura Buchanan Owen at laura@wilkinsonandassociates.co.uk for a private and confidential conversation.
Accounts Senior AAT employer: Wilkinson & Associates Ltd
Contact Detail:
Wilkinson & Associates Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Senior AAT
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accounting world, especially those who might know someone at the firm you're eyeing. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical skills and understanding of Xero. Be ready to discuss how you can add value to their clients and improve their systems. Show them you’re not just about numbers but also about people!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Being able to communicate financial info clearly is key. Think of examples where you've helped non-finance folks understand their numbers – it’ll make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Senior AAT
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Accounts Senior role. Highlight your experience with management accounts and any client-facing roles you've had, as this will show us you're a great fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about joining our award-winning practice and how your values align with ours. Don’t forget to mention your hands-on approach and any experience with Xero!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be explaining financial information to non-finance stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly. Use examples in your application that showcase how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply 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 from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wilkinson & Associates Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around management accounts, P&L statements, and cashflow forecasts. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re ready to take ownership of a client portfolio.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Since the role involves liaising with non-finance stakeholders, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Show Your People Skills
This role is all about building strong relationships with clients. Be prepared to share examples of how you've provided calm, supportive advice to clients in the past. Highlighting your people-first approach will resonate well with the firm's culture.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Xero
Even if you’re not an expert, having a basic understanding of Xero and its app ecosystem can give you an edge. Mention any relevant experience or willingness to learn, as this shows your commitment to adapting to their systems.