Senior Accountant

Avocet Commercial; Newton Abbot; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A dynamic accountancy firm in Exeter is looking for an experienced Senior Accountant to manage a diverse client portfolio and mentor junior staff. The ideal candidate will be AAT qualified with at least 4 years of experience, strong in client relationship management and tax planning. This role offers a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and hybrid working arrangements with opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary DOE

Generous holiday allowance

Healthcare Cash Plan

Ongoing training and career advancement

Qualifications

• Minimum 4 years practice experience in an accountancy environment.
• Substantial accounts preparation experience from fast-paced practice setting.
• Strong knowledge of tax regulations and planning principles.

Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare accounts for various client types.
• Assist and mentor junior colleagues in accounts completion.
• Prepare and review personal and corporation tax returns.

Skills

Client relationship management

Tax planning knowledge

Advanced computer skills

Accounts preparation

Mentoring junior staff

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Education

AAT qualification

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

CCH

Job description

Mrs H at Avocet Commercial Careers has an exceptional opportunity for an experienced AAT qualified accountant to join a dynamic Exeter practice as a Senior Accountant.

This senior position offers the chance to work directly with clients, mentor junior team members, and take ownership of a diverse portfolio while progressing towards chartered status with full firm support.

About the Client

Our client is a well-established, fast-paced accountancy practice based in Exeter with a strong commitment to delivering high-quality accountancy services. They pride themselves on exceeding client expectations while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages professional development and career advancement.

The practice offers excellent opportunities for qualified professionals to progress towards chartered status (ACCA/ACA/CTA) while working with a varied client base and building strong, lasting relationships.

About the Role

This is a senior-level position perfect for an ambitious accountant ready to take on greater responsibility and client interaction. You'll be working with a diverse portfolio of clients, leading accounts preparation, and playing a key role in developing junior team members.

The role offers genuine autonomy and the opportunity to build your expertise across multiple areas including accounts preparation, tax planning, and direct client management, all while working towards chartered qualification.

Senior Accountant Responsibilities

• Plan and prepare accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies from client records
• Send final accounts to clients and manage ongoing client communications
• Assist and mentor less senior colleagues with accounts completion and development
• Set budgets for accounts preparation and manage project timelines
• Prepare and review personal and corporation tax returns including tax planning advice
• Calculate income tax liabilities and provide tax guidance to clients
• Conduct cash flow forecasting work for various client types
• Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing clients
• Handle everyday correspondence and emails in timely, professional manner
• Manage tax enquiry work as it arises and liaise with HMRC
• Prepare management and financial accounts to high standards
• Provide software training to clients on accounting systems

Senior Accountant Requirements

• AAT qualified with minimum 4 years practice experience in accountancy environment
• Substantial accounts preparation experience from fast-paced practice setting
• Strong knowledge of tax regulations and planning principles
• Advanced computer and spreadsheet skills with high proficiency
• Knowledge of accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage) and accounts production software (CCH)
• Proven ability to show initiative and work effectively within team environment
• Strong client relationship building and management capabilities
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across all professional levels
• Superior organisational skills with ability to manage own workload and exceed client expectations
• Confidence in dealing directly with clients and handling complex queries
• Ability to supervise, coach, and develop junior team members effectively

Benefits

• Competitive salary DOE
• Generous holiday allowance
• Holiday Accrual: ½ day additional leave annually up to 10 years (capped at 25 days)
• Hybrid model, 3 days in the office and 2 days from home
• Healthcare Cash Plan
• Professional Development: Ongoing training and career advancement opportunities
• Plus much more!

The Ideal Candidate

The successful candidate will be an experienced, AAT qualified accountant with a proven track record in a fast-paced practice environment. You should be someone who thrives on client interaction, takes pride in delivering exceptional service, and has the confidence to mentor and develop junior colleagues.

You'll be naturally organised with strong technical knowledge and the ambition to progress towards chartered status. The ideal candidate will demonstrate leadership potential, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage complex workloads while maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and client service.

For a confidential discussion about this excellent opportunity, please contact Mrs H at Avocet Commercial Careers today.