This role is based at our Bedford office, which joined the business through our recent acquisition of Collett Hulance.
Collett Hulance is a long-established firm of Chartered Certified Accountants with a team of nearly 30 people. Despite its size, the firm has retained the close-knit, personal feel of a smaller practice, with clients benefiting from consistent points of contact and a highly responsive, tailored service.
The team supports clients across accounts, tax, audit, business strategy, company administration and succession planning. Its approach goes beyond year-end compliance, with a strong focus on becoming a trusted adviser to businesses and individuals at every stage of their journey.
Purpose of the Role
Undertake accounts, tax, bookkeeping and VAT assignments in accordance with Practice procedures, professional standards and regulatory requirements. The role holder is responsible for delivering work to a high technical standard whilst meeting agreed deadlines, chargeability, recovery and profitability targets.
Key Responsibilities
Accounts, Tax and Compliance
- Prepare year-end statutory accounts for a range of clients from various bookkeeping systems.
- Prepare VAT returns, personal tax returns and related compliance work accurately and within deadlines.
- Complete bookkeeping assignments in accordance with Making Tax Digital (MTD) requirements.
- Maintain accurate accounting records, reconciliations and client files.
- Assist with taxation matters and ad hoc accounting and tax projects.
- Ensure all work complies with Practice procedures, professional standards and regulatory requirements.
Client Management
- Support Managers with client relationships where required and provide a consistently high standard of service.
- Respond to client queries relating to bookkeeping, accounts, tax and financial processes.
- Handle client correspondence and telephone enquiries in accordance with Practice procedures.
- Support the onboarding and integration of new clients.
- Escalate client issues to the appropriate manager where necessary.
Performance and Practice Management
- Manage workloads to ensure assignments are completed within agreed deadlines, budgets and fee expectations.
- Achieve chargeability, recovery and profitability targets set by the Practice.
- Monitor assignment budgets and communicate potential overruns promptly.
- Record time accurately and maintain workflow and practice management systems.
Systems and Development
- Utilise Practice software and cloud accounting systems effectively.
- Maintain proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Xero, QuickBooks, Sage and other relevant systems.
- Complete required technical and software training within agreed timescales.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of systems, processes and client service delivery.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential
- Minimum of two years' experience within an accountancy practice.
- Studying towards ACA, ACCA or an equivalent professional qualification.
- Experience preparing statutory accounts for a range of business entities.
- Working knowledge of VAT and personal tax compliance.
- Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Xero, QuickBooks and Sage.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work independently and use initiative.
- Commercial awareness, including an understanding of chargeable time, fee recovery and profitability.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
Other
- Undertake any other duties reasonably required by the Practice.
- Comply with all Practice policies, procedures and regulatory obligations.