About the role

Accounts Preparer

Role purpose:

The Accounts Preparer is responsible for delivering accurate and timely financial information for a portfolio of clients, including the preparation of year-end financial statements and management accounts.

The role supports the Practice in maintaining high standards of compliance, client service, and operational efficiency, while also contributing to the development of trainee colleagues.

Key responsibilities:

Preparing year-end financial statements for a range of clients, including Limited Companies, sole traders, and partnerships, in accordance with relevant accounting standards and regulatory requirements
Producing periodic management accounts, including analysis and commentary to support client decision-making
Preparing and reviewing VAT returns, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with current legislation and submission deadlines
Liaising with clients to obtain relevant financial information, resolve queries, and provide support in a clear and professional manner
Maintaining accurate and well-organised working papers to support all assignments, ensuring audit trails are clear and compliant with internal procedures
Identifying and escalating any technical or client-related issues to managers or partners where appropriate
Assisting with the training, and day-to-day support of trainees, including reviewing their work where required
Supporting continuous improvement in internal processes, identifying efficiencies and contributing to best practice within the team
Managing own workload effectively to meet deadlines and prioritise tasks across multiple client engagements
Keeping up to date with changes in accounting standards, tax regulations, and industry best practices
Undertaking ad hoc assignments and providing additional administrative or technical support to the wider team as required.

Key skills:

Strong technical ability in preparing year-end financial statements and VAT returns, with a solid understanding of accounting standards and compliance.
Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Excel, with good analytical skills to interpret financial data.
High attention to detail and accuracy, with strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
Proactive, adaptable, and solutions-focused, with a commitment to high professional standards and continuous development.

Other requirements:

Willingness to travel between sites when occasionally required.

Values and Culture:

Consistently uphold the Company’s values, ethical standards, and professional responsibilities.
Demonstrate a positive and proactive approach to teamwork and client service.
Lead by example in day-to-day work, showing integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

What we offer:

We offer a range of benefits alongside a competitive salary and holiday package which will be discussed with you at your interview.

Job type: Full-time, permanent

Work location: Daventry

Benefits:

25* days+ BH FTE Annual Leave (Increasing with Service) with the option to buy a further 5 days leave per year
A day off for your Birthday
Group Life Cover (Death in Service Benefit) from day 1
Medical Cashback Scheme (fully funded by Cottons)
Private Medical Insurance*
Annual Discretionary Bonus Scheme
Flexible Working Hours*
Contributory Pension
Wellbeing Support and EAP (including Mental Health First Aiders)
Inclusive and Supportive Culture
Subsidised Gym Membership (through Medical Cashback Scheme)
Exclusive discounts, cashback, savings, and special offers from hundreds of well-known high street and online retailers via a dedicated employee reward app
Career Growth and Development Opportunities
Enhanced Company Sick Pay
Fully Funded Professional Training*
Employee and Client Referral Bonus Scheme
Regular Social Events
Free Parking at many of our office locations
Branded clothing allowance

*Role Dependant

This job summary is intended as a guide to the duties of the post and is not exhaustive. All roles are subject to review and change to meet evolving business needs

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Accounts Preparer

About the role