General practice Accountant, Accounts preparation, year-end accounts, tax compliance, corporate tax
General Practice Accountant (Accounts prep and tax - No Audit!)
About the RoleWe are seeking an experienced and motivated General Practice Accountant to join our growing Belfast-based SME accountancy practice. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high-quality accounts preparation, personal and corporate tax compliance, and general advisory services to a diverse portfolio of local small and medium-sized businesses across Northern Ireland.
This role is ideal for a qualified accountant (part-qualified or accounts technicians with relevant experience will be considered) with practice experience, who enjoys variety, takes ownership of their workload, and thrives within a supportive practice environment where client service and professional development are prioritised.
Key ResponsibilitiesAccounts Preparation
Prepare year-end financial statements for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies in accordance with UK GAAP (FRS 102/105).
Complete management accounts for clients as required.
Perform bookkeeping tasks, reconciliations, and adjustments where necessary to ensure accurate reporting.
Liaise directly with clients to gather required information and resolve queries promptly and professionally.
Tax Compliance
Prepare corporation tax returns (CT600) and supporting schedules.
Prepare personal tax returns (SA100) for directors, business owners, and individuals.
Assist with VAT return preparation and Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliance.
Identify basic tax planning opportunities and communicate these proactively to senior staff or clients.
Client Management & Advisory
Act as a day-to-day point of contact for a portfolio of SME clients across a range of sectors.
Provide guidance on bookkeeping systems, cloud accounting solutions (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage), and general business queries.
Support clients with compliance deadlines and ensure work is completed in a timely manner.
Build strong working relationships with clients based on trust, efficiency, and technical competence.
Internal Practice Support
Assist with workflow planning and job scheduling to meet practice-wide deadlines.
Support junior team members where required, offering guidance and review of routine work.
Contribute to process improvements and the adoption of technology to enhance productivity and client service.
Required Skills & Experience
Part-qualified or qualified ACA / ACCA / AAT, or qualified by experience within a general practice environment.
Minimum 2-3 years' experience in an accountancy practice handling accounts preparation and tax compliance.
Strong working knowledge of accounting standards relevant to UK SMEs (FRS 102/105).
Experience with cloud accounting software such as Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage.
Competent with tax software and practice management tools.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication skills and confidence interacting with clients.
Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines in a busy SME practice environment.
Desirable Attributes
Experience working with Northern Ireland-based SMEs and familiarity with local business sectors.
Knowledge of payroll and CIS (although not essential).
Willingness to support business development activities where appropriate.
A proactive mindset with an interest in continuous learning and professional growth.
What We Offer
Competitive salary aligned with experience and qualifications.
Hybrid/flexible working options (where appropriate).
Study support (if applicable) and ongoing professional development.
Friendly, collaborative team environment within a growing Belfast practice.
Exposure to a broad range of SME clients and varied work to support long-term career development.
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.