Senior Accountant – Growing Advisory Practice

Darwin Hawkins; Galway; On-site; EUR 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Darwin Hawkins is seeking a Senior Accountant in Galway to join a growing advisory practice. You will work closely with business owners, deliver high-quality accounts, and help expand advisory services beyond compliance.

The role reports to the Practice Director and offers exposure to a diverse SME portfolio, embracing a modern, collaborative working environment with a focus on development and client impact.

Qualifications

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA or equivalent) with 2–4 years PQE.
• Experience working in a practice environment with SME clients.
• Proficient in cloud accounting software and reporting tools.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to client service.
• Keen to expand into more advisory and strategic work alongside compliance.

Responsibilities

• Client Management – Manage SME client portfolios as their adviser.
• Accounts Preparation – Prepare and review year-end and management accounts.
• Tax Compliance – Assist with VAT, income tax, and corporation tax needs.
• Advisory Services – Support budgeting, forecasting, and business planning.
• Cloud Accounting – Promote digital accounting best practices.
• Mentorship – Guide junior staff in day-to-day work.
• Business Development – Identify opportunities to deepen client relationships.
• Process Improvement – Drive internal efficiencies and better reporting.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Client service

Business advisory

Proactive approach

Education

ACA/ACCA or equivalent

Tools

Cloud accounting software

Reporting tools

Job description

Job Title: Senior Accountant – Growing Advisory Practice

Sector: Professional Services

Location: Galway

Salary: €55,000 – €60,000 depending on experience

Our Client

Our client is a well-established and growing accountancy practice based in Galway city, with a strong reputation for supporting a wide range of SME clients across Ireland. Known for their commitment to high-quality client service and a modern approach to accounting, they have built long-standing relationships with entrepreneurs, owner-managed businesses, and growing commercial firms.

Why should you apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a progressive and client-focused practice during an exciting growth phase. You’ll gain valuable exposure to a diverse SME portfolio and take on an advisory-focused role beyond traditional compliance. This practice offers flexibility, strong work-life balance, and a genuinely collaborative working environment where ideas are welcomed, and development is encouraged.

Who should apply?

Ideal candidates will be qualified accountants who enjoy working closely with business owners and want to make a commercial impact.

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA or equivalent) with 2–4 years PQE
• Experience working in a practice environment with SME clients
• Proficient in cloud accounting software and reporting tools
• Strong interpersonal skills and a proactive approach to client service
• Keen to expand into more advisory and strategic work alongside compliance

Role and Reporting Lines

This position reports to the Practice Director and will involve working directly with clients and junior team members.

• Client Management – Handle a portfolio of SME clients, acting as their key advisor
• Accounts Preparation – Prepare and review annual and management accounts for a range of industries
• Tax Compliance – Oversee VAT, income tax, and corporation tax returns in collaboration with the tax team
• Advisory Services – Assist clients with budgeting, forecasting, and financial decision-making
• Cloud Accounting – Champion the use of digital accounting solutions and best practices
• Mentorship – Support and guide junior staff with training and review of work
• Business Development – Spot opportunities to add value and deepen client relationships
• Process Improvement – Contribute to internal efficiencies and operational enhancements