Client Accountant

Bennett & Game Recruitment; Guiseley; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days annual leave

Study support up to £500

2 paid study days per module

Casual dress code

Job summary

Bennett & Game Recruitment is seeking a Client Accountant to take ownership of a portfolio of around 200 SME and contractor-led clients. This self-sufficient role focuses on review, sign-offs, strategic advisory, and building long-term client relationships, with an Assistant Accountant team handling initial prep.

The position is office-based with hybrid options: 3 days in the office and 2 days remote after probation, 37.5 hours weekly, salary £28,000–£37,000 dependent on experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years in accountancy practice handling client portfolios.
• AAT qualified, ACCA/CTA part-qualified or qualified by experience.
• Strong end-to-end statutory accounts and tax returns knowledge.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with clients.
• Confident and accountable with honest business guidance.

Responsibilities

• Manage a full portfolio of ~200 small-to-medium clients using cloud software (FreeAgent).
• Review accounts, company tax, VAT, and personal tax returns prepared by assistants.
• Provide tailored business advisory and maintain client relationships.
• Provide guidance on tax efficiency, payroll, and financial management.
• Meet statutory filing dates and monthly deadlines with the team.

Skills

Portfolio management

Client advisory

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Education

AAT qualification

ACCA/CTA

Tools

FreeAgent

Job description

Job Title: Client Accountant

Location: Office-based with Hybrid Working options (3 days office / 2 days remote after probation)

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: £28,000 - £37,000 (Dependent on experience and qualifications)

Role Overview

The Client Accountant position is a self-sufficient role designed for an experienced practice professional capable of independently managing a portfolio of around 200 clients (SMEs, sole traders, and contractor-led limited companies).

Unlike traditional practice roles where partners sign off on every detail, you will take ownership of your portfolio. An dedicated Assistant Accountant team handles the initial preparation work, allowing you to focus on review, sign-offs, strategic advisory, and maintaining strong, long-term client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Portfolio Management: Manage a full portfolio of approximately 200 small-to-medium clients, using cloud accounting software (FreeAgent).
• Review & Sign-Off: Review financial accounts, company tax, VAT, and personal tax returns prepared by the assistant team, ensuring technical accuracy and compliance.
• Client Advisory & Relationship Management: Serve as the main contact point for your clients, providing tailored business advice and support throughout their lifecycle-from incorporation to closure.
• Technical Oversight: Provide clear, approachable guidance on tax efficiency, payroll, and general financial management without overwhelming clients with jargon.
• Deadline Delivery: Collaborate with the wider team to meet statutory filing dates and key monthly office deadlines.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 2-3 years of experience within an accountancy practice handling client portfolios.
• Qualifications: AAT qualified, ACCA/CTA part-qualified/qualified, or qualified by experience (practical capability and portfolio handling are prioritised).
• Technical Competency: Strong understanding of end-to-end statutory accounts, tax returns, and client advisory within a small business setting.
• Communication Skills: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and explain complex accountancy concepts simply.
• Mindset: Confident, accountable, and comfortable offering honest guidance to business owners.

Working Hours & Hybrid Setup

• Core Hours & Flexi-Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM required core presence; start between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM, finish between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM (37.5 hours/week). Lunch breaks last 30 minutes to 2 hours between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

• Office & Remote Schedule: Hybrid working (3 days office / 2 days remote) is available after a 4-month probation period. Full in-office attendance until 5:00 PM is mandatory on monthly Accounts/VAT deadline days and for company social events.

Benefits, Progression & Culture

• Time Off & Support: Includes 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays. Study support covers up to £500 reimbursement per exam/module (AAT/ACCA/CTA) post-probation, plus 2 paid study days per module (1 exam, 1 revision).

• Growth & Perks: Performance-based career progression up to Team Manager without strict qualification barriers. Environment features a casual dress code, open-plan office, and regular welfare events.