Accounts Assistant

Larking Gowen LLP; Colchester; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Holiday 24 days + 8 BH

Medicash Plan

Pension 5% employee 3% employer

Life Assurance

Annual salary review

Professional subscriptions

Job summary

Larking Gowen LLP is seeking an Accounts Assistant to join the Colchester team. You will prepare accounts, manage VAT, and support tax computations for a varied client base, utilizing Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH. AAT Level 4 or near completion is preferred, with a focus on accuracy and client service.

The role offers full-time hours (37.5 per week) with a salary starting from £25,000, plus a benefits package and ongoing professional development opportunities within a supportive team.

Qualifications

• AAT Level 4 qualified or nearing completion.
• Desire to undertake further study.
• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to work.
• Confident using cloud-based accounting software and Excel.
• Clear communicator who enjoys working with people and building relationships.
• Organised, proactive and able to manage workload effectively.
• Strong problem solving and analytical skills.
• Able to work independently and seek support when needed.
• Experience in an accountancy practice is helpful but not essential; willingness to develop technical knowledge and client service is valued.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts and corporation tax returns for limited companies with guidance from senior team members.
• Prepare accounts for sole traders and partnerships and assist with tax computations and returns.
• Assist with bookkeeping, account reconciliations and maintenance of accurate financial records.
• Prepare VAT returns and support clients with digital record-keeping and filing requirements.
• Support other financial reporting tasks as required.
• Communicate with clients to gather information, respond to queries and build relationships.
• Ensure working papers and files meet internal quality standards.
• Use accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH.
• Contribute to smooth office operations and support colleagues across the team.

Skills

Attention to detail

Cloud accounting

Excel proficiency

Strong communicator

Organised

Independent worker

Problem solving

Commercial awareness

Education

AAT Level 4 qualified

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

CCH

Job description

At Larking Gowen, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Our commitment to both our employees and clients is at the core of who we are. We strive to create a supportive and inclusive workplace culture where employee wellbeing is paramount, work-life balance is valued, and personal growth is encouraged through tailored training and development opportunities.
We’re looking for an Accounts Assistant to join our Colchester team and help us deliver a first‑class service to our clients.
You’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative environment where people are encouraged to develop their skills and build long‑term careers. This role is ideal for someone who has completed AAT Level 4, or nearing completion and is ready to apply their knowledge in a varied client‑facing role.
You’ll work closely with colleagues across the wider Business team, specifically including those in Ipswich and Diss, supporting a varied client base and helping to deliver accurate, timely financial information.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts and corporation tax returns for limited companies, with guidance from senior team members.
• Prepare accounts for sole traders and partnerships, and assist with personal, business and partnership tax computations and returns.
• Assist with bookkeeping, account reconciliations and the maintenance of accurate financial records.
• Prepare VAT returns and support clients with digital record‑keeping and filing requirements.
• Support other financial reporting tasks as required.
• Communicate with clients to gather information, respond to queries and build strong working relationships.
• Ensure working papers and files meet internal quality standards.
• Use a range of accounting software, including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH.
• Contribute to the smooth running of the office and support colleagues across the team.

About You

• AAT Level 4 qualified or nearing completion.
• Desire to undertake further study
• Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to your work.
• Confident using cloud‑based accounting software and Excel.
• A clear communicator who enjoys working with people and building relationships.
• Organised, proactive and able to manage your workload effectively.
• A strong problem solver with an analytical approach.
• Able to work independently, use initiative and ask for support when needed.
• Experience in an accountancy practice is helpful but not essential; what matters most is your attitude and willingness to develop technical knowledge and commercial awareness while delivering proactive and efficient client service.

What We Offer

• A friendly, people‑focused culture where your wellbeing and development matter.
• Opportunities to progress and support for further study.
• Ongoing training, mentoring and access to specialist teams across the firm.
• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• The chance to be part of a firm that values long‑term relationships and makes a positive impact in local communities.

Our Commitment

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

In return you will have support to establish your career with Larking Gowen at a pace that suits you both personally and professionally. We also offer benefits which include:

• Holiday 24 days plus 8 days bank holidays
• Professional subscriptions
• Medicash Plan
• Life Assurance
• Pension 5% employee 3% employer
• Annual salary review
• Exam awards
• Option to purchase PMI
• 10 days paid sickness
• Group Income Protection

Requirements

Accounts Assistant
Business Team
Based in: Colchester
Hours: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Salary starting from £25,000 depending on experience

At Larking Gowen, our people get the very best career opportunities in accountancy and business advice. Whether you're just starting out and you’re looking for an Apprenticeship or Graduate opportunity or you've been working in the business for some time, we'll make sure you get all the support you need to take you to the next step in your career and beyond.

We pride ourselves on being a friendly business that looks after our people and is active in the community. As soon as you join us, you'll be working hands‑on, and starting to build your own professional relationships.

Larking Gowen has been around for more than 130 years. We have gone from strength to strength and have built our reputation for loyalty and reliability. We're also forward looking, keeping abreast of change in a fast‑moving environment.

Platinum credited training provider

Pension scheme (salary exchange)

Paid professional subscriptions

Rewards for client referrals

Social responsibility and charity support

Social and sports activities

Suggestion scheme and Innovation Fund

Paid holiday and option to purchase additional holiday through salary exchange

Corporate membership providing discounts on theatre and arts