Bookkeeper

About the Role We are a fast-growing, forward-thinking accountancy practice seeking an experienced Bookkeeper/Accountant to join our team. This is a hands-on role suited to someone with at least 3 years' experience working within an accountancy practice, who is confident managing bookkeeping for multiple clients and has strong knowledge of VAT and basic accounts preparation. The successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining accurate and up-to-date accounting records, preparing VAT returns, assisting with year-end accounts and supporting the wider accounts team. We are looking for someone who is technically capable, highly organised and commercially aware, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple client deadlines. Key Responsibilities Bookkeeping Manage day-to-day bookkeeping for a portfolio of SME clients.Maintain accurate accounting records and ensure transactions are correctly recorded and reconciled.Complete bank, credit card and control account reconciliations.Process purchase and sales invoices, expenses, payments and receipts.Review and reconcile transactions imported through cloud accounting and bookkeeping platforms.Identify and resolve bookkeeping discrepancies and unusual transactions.Maintain accurate ledgers and ensure client records are kept up to date.Work with clients to obtain missing information and resolve bookkeeping queries. VAT Prepare and review VAT returns for a portfolio of clients.Ensure VAT transactions are correctly coded and VAT returns are accurate and submitted within deadlines.Understand the main UK VAT rules, including standard-rated, zero-rated and exempt supplies.Assist with VAT registrations, VAT scheme changes and other VAT-related matters where required. Accounts Preparation Prepare basic year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies.Assist with the preparation of statutory accounts and supporting schedules.Complete year-end reconciliations and journals.Prepare working papers and supporting documentation for review by senior team members.Assist with corporation tax and personal tax return preparation where required.Liaise with senior accountants and managers to resolve outstanding queries and complete accounts efficiently. Client Management Communicate directly with clients regarding bookkeeping, VAT and accounts-related matters.Build strong and professional relationships with clients.Request and follow up on outstanding information in a timely manner.Provide a responsive and helpful service to clients.Identify issues or opportunities that should be referred to the senior accountant or Director. Team & Practice Support Work closely with accountants and managers to ensure client work is completed accurately and on time.Support junior members of the team where required.Contribute to improving bookkeeping processes and workflow.Assist with cloud accounting system implementations and client migrations.Maintain high standards of confidentiality, accuracy and professional conduct. Skills & Experience The ideal candidate will have: Minimum 3 years' experience working within a UK accountancy practice.Strong practical bookkeeping experience.Excellent knowledge and experience of preparing VAT returns.Experience preparing basic accounts for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies.Good understanding of UK accounting principles and basic UK GAAP.Experience with Xero and QuickBooks Strong Excel skills.Experience working with cloud accounting and document management systems such as Dext/Hubdoc.Ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines independently.Strong attention to detail and a methodical approach to work.Good written and verbal communication skills.Ability to identify errors, investigate discrepancies and resolve issues.AAT qualified, part-qualified ACA/ACCA, or equivalent practical experience would be advantageous. Personal Attributes We are looking for someone who is: Highly experienced and confident in bookkeepingProactive and organisedReliable and able to take ownership of their workCommercially aware and solutions-focusedDetail-oriented, with a strong focus on accuracyConfident communicating with clientsComfortable working independently while also being a strong team playerAble to work under pressure and manage competing deadlinesKeen to develop their technical knowledge and career within a growing accountancy practice What We Offer Opportunity to join a growing and forward-thinking accountancy practiceVaried portfolio of SME clients across different sectorsExposure to bookkeeping, VAT and accounts preparationSupportive team environment with opportunities for professional developmentOpportunity to develop your accounting and client-management skillsModern cloud-based accounting systems and technologyClear opportunities for career progression within the firm