Accountant

Company details and job overview:This established and reputable accountancy and business services firm, based in Chester, supports a wide range of clients across multiple sectors, offering bookkeeping, VAT, management accounts, tax, and year-end support. The firm is proud of its professional yet friendly working culture and its long-standing relationships with clients across the region,Due to continued growth and increasing demand for their services, the company is now seeking an experienced Accountant to join the team. This is a permanent, full-time opportunity offering stability, autonomy, and genuine scope for development.The Accountant will report directly to the senior leadership team and take full responsibility for managing a portfolio of clients, overseeing the day-to-day functions of the finance team, and ensuring all financial tasks are completed accurately and efficiently.Role OverviewThe Accountant will play a key role in delivering a range of accountancy services to sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies. The role requires a hands-on and detail-oriented professional who can manage workload independently, build strong client relationships, and deliver high-quality financial reporting.This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys variety in their day-to-day work, thrives in a client-focused environment, and has strong practical experience in an accountancy setting.Key Responsibilities• Prepare and submit quarterly VAT returns in line with HMRC deadlines• Compile and submit personal tax computations and self-assessment tax returns• Provide bookkeeping services, including sales/purchase ledger and bank reconciliations• Prepare monthly or quarterly management accounts with supporting analysis• Handle client queries, including HMRC correspondence and general financial advice• Prepare year-end accounts and corporation tax returns• Ensure accurate maintenance of financial records across Xero, Sage, and Excel• Support clients with ad hoc financial queries and reporting needs• Assist with onboarding new clients and building long-term relationshipsCandidate Requirements• Previous experience in a similar accounting role (practice or industry considered)• AAT qualified, studying ACCA/CIMA, or qualified by experience• Strong working knowledge of VAT and tax compliance• Proficient in accounting software, especially Xero and Sage• Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage a varied workload• Confident communicator with strong client service skills• Self-motivated, organised, and capable of working independently• Strong MS Excel skills and experience producing management informationBenefits• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)• 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays, including Christmas shutdown• Discretionary flexibility around start/finish times (core hours 7.5 per day)• Opportunities for professional development and long-term progression• Supportive, collaborative team culture• Free on-site parking and excellent locationThis vacancy is being handled by Thomas Hoather – Kenton Black Finance.Kenton Black Finance operate across the UK as a market leading recruitment partner, specialising in the attraction of finance talent across both permanent and interim requirements. With a team of dedicated experts, each with longevity operating in the finance arena, we maintain a proven track record and have established partnerships with businesses both large, small and those in their infancy. Market leaders, we provide recruitment solutions from entry level finance to directorship professionals. Operating from local offices in Preston, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham and Glasgow, Kenton Black Finance remain a dynamic and effective recruitment partner who represent and attract only the finest finance talent in the local area and across the UK.