Semi-Qualified Accountant

SHMS Ltd; Fareham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing accountancy practice in Fareham is looking for a Semi-Qualified Accountant to manage client accounts, prepare financial documents, and support VAT returns. Ideal candidates will be AAT qualified or ACCA/ACA part-qualified with 2+ years' experience in practice. This role offers study support and a competitive salary in a supportive environment committed to professional development.

Benefits

Study support including structured study time

Exposure to a variety of clients

Competitive salary and benefits package

Flexibility in working hours

Qualifications

• Two or more years of practice experience in accounting.
• Proficiency in preparing year-end accounts and tax returns.
• Experience with VAT and client management.

Responsibilities

• Prepare year-end accounts and corporation tax.
• Support with VAT returns and bookkeeping.
• Manage client files focusing on accuracy.

Skills

AAT qualified or ACCA/ACA part-qualified

Experience with cloud accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Client focus

Education

AAT qualification or equivalent

2+ years’ practice experience

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

Job description

Base pay range

This range is provided by SHMS Accountants. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Shape your career in a growing, ambitious accountancy practice.

SHMS is a scaling accountancy firm looking to appoint a Semi-Qualified Accountant. This is an excellent opportunity for someone AAT qualified or ACCA/ACA part‑qualified who wants to build on their technical skills, gain exposure to a broad range of clients, and progress quickly with the right support. As a Platinum Approved ACCA Employer, SHMS demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards of staff training, professional development, and career support. You’ll join a supportive practice team of bookkeepers and accountants, reporting directly to the Practice Manager. You’ll be trusted to take ownership of client accounts while receiving the guidance needed to progress toward full qualification.

Why this role matters

Rather than being pigeonholed into one department (as you might in a larger firm), you’ll work across accounts prep, tax returns, VAT, and client queries - developing into a well-rounded accountant who can think commercially and add real value to clients.

What you’ll be doing

• Preparing year‑end accounts, corporation tax, self‑assessment, and property accounts.
• Supporting with VAT returns and bookkeeping transactions.
• Taking ownership of client files with a focus on accuracy and timeliness.
• Acting as the day‑to‑day contact for clients, handling queries confidently and professionally.
• Building trust by thinking beyond compliance — spotting opportunities and giving practical advice.
• Collaborating with bookkeepers and other accountants, supporting their work and sharing knowledge.
• Escalating complex queries appropriately, while showing initiative to solve problems yourself.
• Contributing ideas for improving processes and service delivery.

What you’ll bring

• AAT qualified or ACCA/ACA part‑qualified (or equivalent), with 2+ years’ practice experience.
• Solid grounding in accounts prep, VAT, self‑assessment, and corporation tax.
• Experience with cloud accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage); VT Transaction experience is a bonus but not essential.
• Attention to detail and the initiative to problem‑solve when things don’t look right.
• Strong communication skills and client focus – able to explain technical matters simply.
• Ambition to progress, complete qualifications, and take on more responsibility over time.

What success looks like

• Month 1: You’re up to speed with systems, handling basic accounts prep and client queries.
• Month 3: You’re confidently managing your own portfolio with minimal supervision.
• Month 6–12: You’re supporting bookkeepers, reviewing work, and showing clear progression toward full qualification and senior responsibilities.

What’s on offer

• Study support, including structured study time and exam support.
• Exposure to a wide variety of clients across multiple sectors.
• A supportive, approachable manager who values initiative and progression.
• Competitive salary + benefits package.
• 37.5 hours/week with flexibility around core hours (9:30–4:30), including summer flex.

Seniority level

Associate

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Accounting / Auditing

Industries

Accounting