Qualified Accountant

Hays is working in partnership with a highly respected professional services organisation to recruit an ambitious Assistant Accountant within their Business services team. This opportunity offers real scope for progression, hands‑on responsibility, and the chance to play a key role in delivering exceptional client service across a varied portfolio.

Your new role

As an Assistant Manager, you'll take ownership of preparing and reviewing client accounts, managing workflow across your portfolio and guiding junior team members. You'll bridge the gap between operational delivery and managerial responsibility-ensuring technical accuracy, supporting more complex advisory work, and strengthening client relationships.This is a role that will allow you to develop your leadership skills while continuing to expand your technical expertise across accounting, tax, and advisory.

What you'll be doing

Client Delivery & Portfolio Management

Manage your own portfolio of clients, ensuring all work is planned, scheduled and delivered in line with agreed timescales.
Build trusted relationships with clients, understanding their business needs, risks and challenges.
Provide clear updates throughout the engagement and ensure high‑quality deliverables.
Support fee discussions and maintain accurate engagement terms.
Identify opportunities for value‑added services.Technical Excellence

Apply strong knowledge of accounting standards and professional requirements.
Review key areas of assignments, ensuring working papers are accurate, justified and ready for partner review.
Assist with complex financial reporting, VAT queries and medium‑risk tax returns.
Provide high‑level explanations to clients on topics such as R&D relief, group loss relief and regulatory updates.
Ensure all technical review points are addressed prior to final sign‑off.Leadership & People Development

Support junior colleagues through coaching, feedback and performance reviews.
Contribute to team planning discussions and ensure everyone understands objectives, risks and responsibilities.
Play an active role in recruitment and onboarding of new team members.
Demonstrate and promote company values, setting a strong example in behaviour and work ethic.Operational & Commercial Awareness

Monitor WIP, prepare draft fees and deliver work efficiently to expected recovery rates.
Communicate proactively when scope or deadlines change.
Confidently make decisions within remit and escalate when needed.
Ensure compliance with Companies House and statutory filing requirements.What you'll need to succeed

ACA, ACCA, CA qualified-or qualified by experience.
Strong experience gained within an accountancy practice.
Excellent technical understanding of accounting standards and tax fundamentals.
A proactive mindset with strong attention to detail and commercial awareness.
Confidence in reviewing work, supporting junior staff and communicating with clients.
A commitment to delivering high‑quality work and continuous improvement.What you'll get in return

At Hays, we know that the right opportunity can transform your career. In this role, you can expect:

Clear progression pathways and professional development support.
A collaborative, people‑focused team environment.
Exposure to a wide range of clients and assignments.
Hybrid working arrangements and a competitive salary package.
What to do now

If you're ready to move forward in your career and take on a role where your contribution truly matters please contact Cara Whyte at Hays

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