Senior External Auditor

DCT Recruitment; Farnworth; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable mid-tier UK accountancy firm, represented by DCT Recruitment, is seeking an experienced Senior External Auditor. This role involves leading audit engagements across a diverse client portfolio and supervising junior auditors. The ideal candidate should be ACA or ACCA qualified, with 2–6 years' experience in external audit and strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP and FRS standards. A competitive salary of £30,000 - £40,000 per annum is offered for this full-time position in Widnes.

Qualifications

• 2–6 years' experience in external audit within a UK accountancy practice.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP, FRS standards, and ISAs (UK).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong client rapport.

Responsibilities

• Lead statutory external audits in accordance with UK Auditing Standards.
• Plan and execute audit fieldwork, including risk assessment.
• Perform and review substantive testing and audit documentation.

Skills

UK GAAP

FRS standards

ISAs (UK)

Audit software

Microsoft Office

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

ACA or ACCA qualified (or part-qualified)

Tools

Mercia

CCH

Job description

DCT Recruitment are delighted to be recruiting on behalf of our client, a reputable mid‑tier UK accountancy firm. We are seeking an experienced Senior External Auditor to lead audit engagements across a diverse client portfolio, including SMEs, owner‑managed businesses, charities, and regulated organisations. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious auditor looking to progress within a supportive, forward‑thinking, and growing practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead statutory external audits in accordance with UK Auditing Standards (ISAs (UK)) and firm methodology.
• Plan and execute audit fieldwork, including risk assessment, setting materiality, and designing audit testing strategies.
• Perform and review substantive testing, analytical procedures, and audit documentation to meet quality standards.
• Evaluate financial statements in line with FRS 102, FRS 105, UK GAAP, and IFRS where applicable.
• Identify audit issues and control weaknesses, provide practical recommendations, and present findings to managers and partners.
• Supervise, mentor, and review the work of junior auditors and trainees, supporting their development and ensuring work meets required standards.
• Manage client relationships, acting as a key point of contact throughout the audit process and ensuring timely communication.
• Stay updated with technical developments, regulatory changes, and industry best practices.

Qualifications & Skills

• ACA or ACCA qualified (or part‑qualified).
• 2–6 years' experience in external audit within a UK accountancy practice.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP, FRS standards, and ISAs (UK).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong client rapport.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple engagements to deadlines.
• Proficiency in audit software (Mercia, CCH, or similar) and Microsoft Office.

Senior External Auditor

Salary: £30,000 - £40,000 per annum

Location: Widnes

Job Type: Full‑time, Permanent