Senior Accountant

Clear Legal & Financial Recruitment; Waterlooville; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Clear Legal & Financial Recruitment is seeking an experienced Senior Accountant for a growing Hampshire accountancy practice. You will manage a portfolio of clients, prepare annual accounts and tax returns, and provide high-quality advisory services.

The role requires at least 5 years in practice, full membership of a recognized accounting body, and proficiency with Xero, QuickBooks, Dext and FreeAgent. Strong communication, organisation, and client-facing skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Full membership of a recognised professional accounting body is required.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience working in an accountancy practice.
• Experience managing a varied client portfolio in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK accounting and taxation principles.
• Experience using cloud accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, Dext and FreeAgent.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and submit annual accounts and tax returns for clients.
• Manage a portfolio of clients, delivering high-quality accounting and advisory services.
• Review and provide feedback on accounting work completed by team members.
• Lead year-end client meetings and present accounts.

Skills

Client portfolio management

Strong communication

Organisational skills

Education

Membership of a recognised professional accounting body (ACCA/ATT/ACCA or equivalent)

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Dext

FreeAgent

Excel

Word

Job description

My client is seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to join their growing and forward-thinking accountancy practice based in Hampshire.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, review, and submit annual accounts and tax returns for Sole Traders, Partnerships, and Limited Companies.
• Manage a portfolio of clients, delivering high-quality accounting, compliance, and advisory services.
• Review and provide feedback on accounting and taxation work completed by team members.
• Provide technical guidance, coaching, and mentorship to colleagues within your accounting team.
• Act as a role model, demonstrating and promoting company values across the business.
• Communicate with clients via phone, email, social media, and face‑to‑face meetings, including obtaining outstanding records and information.
• Support the onboarding of new clients, ensuring a smooth transition into the practice.
• Assess clients' tax positions and provide proactive tax planning advice to improve efficiency.
• Provide commercial advice including cash flow forecasting, budgeting, pricing, and business performance reviews.
• Prepare and review bookkeeping, VAT returns, and CIS returns where required.
• Lead year-end client meetings, presenting accounts and discussing business performance.
• Conduct client fee reviews and support ongoing client relationships.
• Maintain accurate electronic records, client administration, and internal documentation.
• Liaise with HMRC and Companies House to resolve queries and maintain statutory compliance.
• Deliver external training, including client bookkeeping support, where appropriate.
• Maintain professional development and complete relevant CPD requirements.
• Ensure client statutory information remains accurate and up to date.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Full membership of a recognised professional accounting body (AAT, ATT, ACCA, or equivalent).
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience working within an accountancy practice.
• Extensive experience managing a varied client portfolio in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to prepare, review, and check accounts and tax returns through to review stage for Sole Traders, Partnerships, and Limited Companies.
• Strong technical understanding of UK accounting and taxation principles.
• Experience using cloud accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, Dext, and FreeAgent.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex financial information clearly to clients and colleagues.