Qualified Practice Accountant (ACA Preferred) Location: Downpatrick Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 per annum Our client is a long-established and highly respected accountancy practice with a strong reputation for delivering tailored financial and advisory services to SMEs, owner-managed businesses, and growing organisations across Northern Ireland. With a modern and client-focused approach, the firm provides a full range of services including accounts preparation, tax compliance, payroll, VAT, cloud accounting, and business advisory support. Due to continued growth, they are now seeking an experienced Qualified Accountant to join their Belfast office. The Role This is an excellent opportunity for a practice-trained accountant looking to join a supportive and professional environment with exposure to a varied client portfolio. The successful candidate will take ownership of accounts preparation, tax work, and client communication, working closely with a range of businesses across multiple sectors. The role would suit an ACA-qualified accountant coming from an accountancy practice environment who enjoys building strong client relationships and delivering high-quality work. Key Responsibilities Preparation of year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies Preparation and submission of corporation tax and personal tax returns Managing a portfolio of clients and acting as a key point of contact Providing support and advice to clients on financial and accounting matters Reviewing bookkeeping records and ensuring compliance with accounting standards Preparing VAT returns and management accounts where required Liaising directly with clients to resolve queries and gather financial information Supporting junior team members where appropriate Working with cloud accounting software including Xero, Sage, and QuickBooks Essential Criteria ACA qualified (or equivalent qualification considered) Previous experience within an accountancy practice environment Strong experience preparing accounts for a variety of clients Experience with corporation tax and personal tax preparation Excellent communication and client relationship skills Strong attention to detail and ability to manage deadlines Desirable Criteria Experience working with cloud accounting systems such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks Exposure to management accounts and advisory work Ability to manage a client portfolio independently Why Apply? Join a highly reputable and established accountancy practice Exposure to a broad and varied client portfolio Supportive and collaborative working environment Opportunity for long-term progression and development Modern, cloud-focused practice with strong technical expertise Ashton Recruitment is acting as a Recruitment Agency. ADZN1_NI