Job Description
Tax Accountant - Independent Firm, Colchester
Mixed Tax
Up to £60,000
We are seeking a skilled and proactive Tax Accountant to join our expanding independent firm in Colchester.
This role is pivotal in delivering accurate, compliant, and strategic tax solutions across a diverse client base spanning multiple industries. The ideal candidate will bring strong expertise in UK tax legislation—including PAYE/PRSI, corporation tax, VAT, and personal tax—along with hands-on experience in preparing and reviewing tax returns. You will be responsible for managing client accounts using Sage Accounting and QuickBooks, ensuring timely and precise financial reporting in alignment with UK GAAP and IFRS. As a qualified Chartered Certified Accountant (ACCA, ACA, or CTA) with a solid background in tax compliance and advisory, you will drive client satisfaction through clear communication, meticulous reconciliations, and innovative tax efficiency strategies. This is a flexible working role within a supportive, collaborative environment, offering opportunities to grow your expertise in complex tax planning and advisory services.
Responsibilities:
* Prepare and review accurate, timely UK tax returns, including self-assessment, corporation tax, VAT, and PAYE/PRSI filings.
* Perform detailed financial reconciliations to ensure data accuracy and compliance with UK GAAP and IFRS.
* Manage client bookkeeping, financial reporting, and month-end processes using Sage Accounting and QuickBooks.
* Deliver tax advisory and planning services, identifying opportunities to enhance tax efficiency and ensure compliance.
* Serve as a key point of contact for clients, HMRC, and external stakeholders to resolve queries and maintain regulatory adherence.
* Stay current with evolving tax legislation and accounting standards, applying updates effectively in daily practice.
* Support senior team members in preparing tax computations, disclosures, and financial statements for audit and review.
* Assist in client onboarding, documentation, and service delivery to support business growth initiatives.
* Foster a culture of precision, professionalism, and continuous improvement within the team.
Requirements
Tax Accountant
* Professional qualification in ACCA, ACA, ATT or CTA, with full membership or nearing final stages.
* Hands-on experience in tax accounting within a professional services environment, preferably in an independent firm.
* Solid understanding of UK GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).
* Proven proficiency in Sage Accounting and QuickBooks for financial management and reporting.
* In-depth knowledge of PAYE, PRSI, corporation tax, VAT, and personal tax systems.
* Experience preparing and submitting tax returns and managing HMRC correspondence.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a track record of building trusted client relationships.
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.
* Openness to flexible working arrangements and contributing to an agile, modern practice.
* Commitment to ongoing professional development and upholding the highest ethical standards.
Benefits
Tax Accountant
* Competitive salary package
* Flexible working
* Excellent career progression opportunity for development to Team Manager and working closely with a Partner
Please contact Andy Irvine on 02038314441, andy@TPFrecruitment.com or Andrew Irvine | LinkedIn for a confidential conversation.
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We’re keen to remain the leading provider of the best accountancy talent in the South-East. We are continually exploring ways to expand our network and we know that great candidates like you can introduce us to other equally brilliant people. We’re looking to work with the best accountancy practice and tax staff in the South-East so if your friends, family or colleagues are considering a new opportunity and can demonstrate relevant experience, we'd love to speak to them.
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Requirements
Experienced in mixed tax advisory, preferably within a firm serving SMEs and OMBs. In-depth technical expertise in corporation tax, income tax, VAT, capital gains tax and inheritance tax. Proven ability to manage client relationships and deliver value-driven tax solutions to business owners and directors. Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex tax concepts into clear, actionable insights. Proficiency in tax preparation software (e.g. CCH, CaseWare, TaxCalc) and advanced Microsoft Excel. Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines. High attention to detail, analytical mindset and strong problem-solving capabilities.