We are seeking an experienced Chartered Accountant (ACA / ACCA / AAT) to take a key role within a firm of independent Financial Advisers in Hailsham . The role will have a combined responsibility for the practice’s internal accounting function with the delivery of external accounting and tax services to clients. it also supervises a junior accountant who assists with the accounts and tax prep.

This is a senior, hands-on role offering variety, autonomy, and close working relationships with both the firm’s directors and its clients. The role is ideal for someone who enjoys working across internal finance, compliance, and client-facing accounting work within a professional services environment.

Internal Practice Accounting

• Full responsibility for the firm’s internal accounting and finance function
• Preparation and review of monthly management accounts
• Budgeting, forecasting, and cashflow management
• Preparation of statutory limited company accounts for the practice
• Oversight of bookkeeping, bank reconciliations, and control accounts
• Preparation and submission of quarterly VAT returns
• Oversight of payroll, PAYE, and pension contributions
• Ensuring compliance with HMRC, Companies House, and FCA-related financial requirements
• Liaison with external accountants, auditors, and regulators
• Providing financial insight and reporting to the directors

• Preparation and review of limited company accounts for owner-managed businesses
• Preparation and submission of Self Assessment tax returns for directors, partners, and individuals
• Preparation of corporation tax computations and supporting schedules
• Preparation and submission of VAT returns for clients
• Advising clients on basic tax matters, including profit extraction and compliance deadlines
• Maintaining high-quality client records and working papers
• Liaising with HMRC on behalf of clients as required
• Supporting clients with bookkeeping queries and accounting software where appropriate

Essential

• Chartered Accountant (ACA / ACCA / AAT)
• Strong experience in practice or professional services accounting
• UK accounting standards knowledge
• Corporation tax
• VAT
• Self Assessment
• Experience preparing limited company accounts and tax returns
• High level of accuracy, organisation, and attention to detail
• Confident communicator, comfortable dealing with clients and senior stakeholders

Desirable

• Experience working with owner-managed businesses
• Experience in a regulated or financial services environment
• Strong Excel skills and experience with cloud accounting software (e.g. Xero, Sage, QuickBooks)
• Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff