Location: Darlington Salary: £28,000 £32,000 (DOE) Type: Full Time | Flexible Hours About the Firm A well-established and growing accountancy practice in Darlington is looking to recruit an experienced Accounts Assistant. The firm works with a diverse client base from sole traders to limited companies offering services in accounts preparation, tax, audit, and advisory. Known for combining traditional accountancy principles with a modern, client-focused approach, the practice fosters a supportive and friendly team culture. Staff are encouraged to grow professionally while consistently delivering a high standard of service. The Role: Accounts Assistant This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with private practice experience who is looking to develop their career in a professional and forward-thinking environment. As an Accounts Assistant, you will support the accounts team with a variety of tasks including year-end accounts preparation, VAT returns, and client communications. Youll work closely with senior team members and managers, gaining exposure to a wide range of clients and further enhancing your technical and professional skills. Key Responsibilities Assist in the preparation of year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies Support VAT return preparation and perform general bookkeeping tasks Use accounting software and cloud platforms (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks) Communicate with clients to gather information and respond to queries Maintain accurate records and support compliance obligations Assist senior colleagues with ad hoc projects and administrative tasks Requirements Private practice experience is essential AAT qualified, working towards ACA/ACCA, or qualified by experience Good understanding of basic accounting principles and bookkeeping Experience with cloud accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks) High attention to detail and strong organisational skills Professional, proactive, and a team-oriented mindset Willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment Whats on Offer Competitive salary: £28,000 £32,000 (DOE) Flexible working hours Friendly and supportive team culture Exposure to a wide variety of clients and industries Access to modern systems and tools Ongoing training and genuine opportunities for career progression Ready to take the next step in your practice career? Apply now to join a respected local firm that values your experience and supports your long-term growth.