Accounts Assistant

Larking Gowen LLP; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ACA/ACCA study support

Professional subscriptions

Mentoring and training

Competitive salary

Community involvement

Job summary

Larking Gowen LLP in Ipswich is seeking an Accounts Assistant to join our Ipswich Business Team and help deliver excellent client service and accurate financial information.

You’ll be studying toward ACA/ACCA, with AAT Level 4, and will work closely with colleagues to develop technical skills, gain practical experience and build a long‑term career in accountancy using Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH.

Qualifications

• Currently studying toward ACA/ACCA qualification.
• AAT Level 4 qualified.
• 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 solver with an analytical approach.
• Able to work independently and seek support when needed.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts for limited companies, sole traders and partnerships with senior support.
• Assist with corporation tax computations and returns.
• Support preparation of personal, business and partnership tax returns.
• Complete bookkeeping assignments and account reconciliations; maintain accurate records.
• Prepare VAT returns and assist with digital record-keeping requirements.
• Support delivery of management accounts and other financial reporting services.
• Communicate with clients to gather information and respond to queries.
• Ensure working papers and client files meet quality procedures.
• Use accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH.
• Collaborate with the wider team to deliver high-quality client service.
• Support smooth operation of the office and wider team.

Skills

ACA/ACCA study

AAT Level 4

Attention to detail

Excel

Communication

Organised

Problem solving

Independent worker

Education

AAT Level 4

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

CCH

Job description

We're looking for an Accounts Assistant to join our Ipswich Business Team and help us deliver an excellent service to our clients.

You’ll be part of a supportive and collaborative team where you’ll have the opportunity to develop your technical skills, gain practical experience and build a long‑term career in accountancy.

This role is ideal for someone who is currently studying towards their ACA or ACCA qualification and is keen to broaden their experience across a varied client portfolio.

Working closely with our wider Business Team in Colchester and Diss, you’ll support a range of owner‑managed businesses and individuals, helping to deliver accurate, timely and valuable financial information to clients.

About You

• Currently studying towards ACA/ACCA qualification
• AAT Level 4 qualified
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Prepare accounts for limited companies, sole traders and partnerships, with support and review from senior team members.
• Assist with the preparation of corporation tax computations and returns.
• Support the preparation of personal, business and partnership tax returns.
• Complete bookkeeping assignments, account reconciliations and maintain accurate financial records.
• Prepare VAT returns and assist clients with digital record‑keeping requirements.
• Support the delivery of management accounts and other financial reporting services where required.
• Communicate with clients to gather information, respond to queries and develop strong working relationships.
• Ensure working papers and client files are maintained to a high standard and comply with internal quality procedures.
• Use a range of accounting software, including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and CCH.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the wider Business Team to deliver a high‑quality client service.
• Support the smooth and efficient operation of the office and wider team.

What We Offer

• A friendly, people‑focused culture where your wellbeing and development matter.
• Full support for your ACA/ACCA studies including professional subscriptions
• 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.

Requirements

Accounts Assistant
Business Team
Based in: Ipswich
Hours: Full time (37.5 hours per week)
Salary starting from £29,000 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.

Benefits

• 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