Job Description Practice Accountant | ACA/ACCA/QBE Leadership Opportunity Salary: Up to £50,000 DOE & Qualifications Location: Keighley Area Are you an experienced practice accountant looking for a role where you can truly make an impact? Our client, a well-established and rapidly growing accountancy practice in Keighley, is seeking a Practice Accountant to join their ambitious team. This is a rare opportunity to manage your own diverse client portfolio, mentor junior staff, and play a key role in shaping the future of a thriving practice that values expertise, innovation, and work-life balance. About the Opportunity Our client is a forward-thinking, independent accountancy practice with a strong reputation for delivering exceptional client service across the Keighley area and beyond. As they enter their next phase of growth, they're looking for an experienced accountant who can hit the ground running, take ownership of a varied client portfolio, and contribute to the strategic development of the practice. This is more than just a technical role – it's an opportunity to build lasting client relationships, develop your leadership skills, and progress your career in a supportive, modern environment. The Role: What You'll Be Doing As a Practice Accountant, you'll be at the heart of the client service team, managing a diverse portfolio and supporting the leadership team with operational and strategic initiatives: • Prepare and review year-end accounts for limited companies, sole traders, partnerships, and LLPs in accordance with FRS 102 and FRS 105 • Produce management accounts and provide performance insights, KPIs, and financial commentary to help clients make informed business decisions • Manage corporation tax computations and liaise with clients on tax planning opportunities • Support clients with bookkeeping, VAT returns, and cloud accounting software including Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, and FreeAgent • Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as their trusted advisor and primary point of contact • Supervise and mentor junior team members, providing technical guidance, training, and performance feedback • Identify opportunities to add value through process improvements, advisory services, and proactive client support • Stay current with regulatory changes, accounting standards, and tax legislation relevant to SME clients • Collaborate with Partners on practice development, client retention strategies, and operational efficiency • Support business development activities by identifying cross-selling opportunities and contributing to client proposals What We're Looking For: Your Skills & Experience Essential Requirements: • Minimum 3-5 years' UK accountancy practice experience, with a strong track record in accounts preparation and client management • ACA or ACCA qualified (or qualified by experience with demonstrable technical competence at equivalent level) • Strong technical knowledge of UK GAAP (FRS 102/105), Companies Act requirements, and corporation tax • Proven experience managing a client portfolio end-to-end, from bookkeeping through to final accounts • Proficiency with cloud accounting software – particularly Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, or similar platforms • Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff members • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills – able to explain complex financial matters clearly to clients • Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities effectively • Client-focused approach with commercial awareness and relationship-building abilities • Proactive mindset – comfortable taking initiative and working autonomously Desirable Skills: • Experience with VAT, payroll, or personal tax • Exposure to practice management software (e.g., CCH, Iris, Xero Practice Manager) • Interest in advisory services and helping clients grow their businesses • Ambition to progress to Senior Accountant or Manager level What's on Offer: Your Benefits Package Our client recognises that exceptional talent deserves exceptional rewards and support: • Competitive salary up to £50,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications) • Clear career progression pathway to Senior Accountant, Manager, or Director level with structured development plans • Comprehensive benefits package including: Generous pension scheme 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (with options to purchase additional leave) Birthday day off Enhanced parental leave policies • Investment in your professional development – full CPD support, training courses, and study leave • Modern, cloud-based systems and technology – working with the latest accounting software and tools • Friendly, collaborative team culture where your contributions are valued and your voice is heard • Supportive leadership team committed to your success and wellbeing • Free on-site parking and convenient location with excellent local amenities • Regular team social events and celebrations Location & Working Arrangements Location: Keighley area – easily accessible from Bradford, Leeds, Halifax, and surrounding areas with excellent road links and free parking Working Pattern: Full-time, Monday to Friday Why This Role Stands Out This isn't just another practice accountant position – it's a genuine opportunity to take ownership, make a real impact, and grow your career with a practice that's going places. You'll work with a diverse range of interesting clients, have the autonomy to manage your own portfolio, and receive the support and recognition you deserve. The practice's investment in modern technology, combined with their commitment to work-life balance and professional development, creates an environment where you can truly thrive. Whether you're looking to develop your technical expertise, build your leadership skills, or progress towards a management or partnership role, this opportunity offers the platform to achieve your career ambitions. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an experienced practice accountant looking for a role that offers genuine autonomy, career progression, and a supportive team environment, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact: David Hawthorne-Finch Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Tel: 0333 996 2882 Email: info@h-fts.com Please note: All applications are treated in the strictest confidence. We will not submit your CV to our client without your express permission. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.