Accounts Semi-Senior

Location: Chester

Salary: £24,000 – £35,000+ DOE

Are you an ambitious Accounts Assistant or Semi-Senior looking to step up into a national practice environment with funded study backing and genuine career progression? Our client is a top-tier, nationally recognized accountancy practice based in Chester. Known for their collaborative team culture, prestigious client portfolio, and commitment to staff development, they are seeking a talented practice candidate to join their expanding team.

The Opportunity

In this dynamic, office-based role with flexible hybrid options, you will work alongside experienced senior accountants and partners, taking ownership of accounts preparation for a diverse portfolio of SMEs, sole traders, and limited companies. Benefiting from direct mentorship and state-of-the-art cloud technology, you will refine your technical capabilities while receiving full study backing toward your professional qualifications.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements

• Experience & Qualifications: Minimum 2+ years’ UK accountancy practice experience (essential). Part-qualified AAT, ACCA, or ACA (or actively studying towards qualification).

• Technical Accounting: Hands-on experience in preparing year-end accounts, statutory financial statements, sole trader and partnership accounts, and VAT returns.

• Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of modern cloud accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, or Sage) alongside MS Excel.

• Client Engagement: Confident interpersonal skills with a client-focused approach to assisting with day-to-day bookkeeping and software queries.

Package & Benefits

• Base Salary: £24,000 – £35,000+ per annum (dependent on experience and qualification stage, aligned with Cheshire practice market rates).

• Study Package: Full financial study support (tuition, exam fees, and paid study leave) for AAT, ACCA, or ACA.

• Work-Life Balance: Supported hybrid working model in modern Chester office premises.

• Environment & Growth: Clear pathways for progression to Senior Accountant level, fully funded ongoing CPD, workplace pension, and employee wellbeing initiatives.

How to Apply

To explore this opportunity in confidence and discuss next steps, please contact David Hawthorne-Finch directly at d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com.

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is acting as an employment agency for this vacancy. All applications and enquiries are treated with the strictest confidence.

Practice Accountant / Client Manager

Location: Manchester City Centre

Salary: £40,000 – £52,000+ DOE

Are you an experienced Practice Accountant ready to step into a high-visibility client management role within a premier Manchester practice? Our client is a well-established, modern accountancy firm based in Manchester City Centre. Known for their technical excellence, forward-thinking approach, and supportive culture, they are seeking a Practice Accountant / Client Manager to take full ownership of a key client portfolio and join their senior leadership team.

The Opportunity

In this senior, client-facing position, you will act as the primary trusted advisor to a varied portfolio of SMEs, corporate clients, and fast-growth businesses. Managing engagements end-to-end, you will oversee statutory accounts preparation under FRS 102 & FRS 105, resolve complex tax advisory and HMRC queries, and drive practice growth by identifying cross-selling opportunities. Working alongside senior partners, you will play a central role in quality control, technical file reviews, and mentoring junior staff, with a transparent pathway to Senior Management.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements

• Qualifications & Experience: ACA/ACCA qualified or finalist/nearly qualified with 4–5+ years’ UK accountancy practice experience (essential).

• Technical Mastery: In-depth technical expertise in preparing and reviewing statutory financial statements under FRS 102 & FRS 105, combined with strong handling of complex corporate and personal tax compliance.

• Portfolio & Client Leadership: Proven ability to independently manage a client portfolio, maintain strong relationships, handle advanced tax/HMRC queries, and spot business development opportunities.

• Supervision & Mentoring: Demonstrated experience in reviewing junior fee-earner work, conducting technical quality checks, and mentoring trainees to foster team development.

Package & Benefits

• Base Salary & Bonus: £40,000 – £52,000 per annum (dependent on experience and qualification status, aligned with Manchester market rates), plus a performance-related bonus scheme.

• Professional Support: Funded study support for finalist exams alongside fully backed ongoing CPD and leadership development.

• Work-Life Balance: Supported hybrid/flexible working arrangements with excellent work-life balance initiatives.

• Environment & Health: Modern City Centre offices, generous annual leave allowance, workplace pension, and employee health/wellbeing perks.

How to Apply

To explore this opportunity in confidence and discuss next steps, please contact David Hawthorne-Finch directly:

• Email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is acting as an employment agency for this vacancy. All applications and enquiries are treated with the strictest confidence.

The Opportunity

• Role: Litigation Senior Associate (succession to Head of Litigation)
• Location: Wimbledon, South West London (excellent transport links)
• Working arrangement: Hybrid working (typically 2–3 days in the office)
• Salary: £85,000–£110,000 (dependent on experience) + discretionary bonus
• Reporting to: Managing Partner

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a varied litigation caseload with a strong focus on property litigation (commercial and residential)
• Advising clients strategically from pre-action through to resolution, including ADR and court proceedings

• Supervising and mentoring junior solicitors and support staff
• Helping to maintain excellent standards across file management, compliance, and client care

• Contributing to departmental planning and growth
• Supporting business development and strengthening existing client relationships

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales)
• 7+ years’ PQE (guideline) with strong, consistent litigation experience
• UK private practice experience is essential
• Demonstrable expertise in property litigation (commercial and residential)
• Strong working knowledge of:
  • Civil Procedure Rules (CPR)
  • Pre-Action Protocols
  • Court procedure and ADR (mediation/negotiation)
• Experience supervising others (or clear readiness to step into a leadership role)
• Confident communicator with excellent client-handling skills and commercial awareness

Salary & Benefits

• £85,000–£110,000 (DOE) + discretionary bonus
• Hybrid working (typically 2–3 days office-based)
• 25 days’ annual leave + bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Professional development funding and support
• Clear progression to Head of Department and a pathway to partnership/equity (for the right person)
• Supportive, collaborative culture and regular team socials

Apply (Confidential)

Head of Litigation

Location: Wimbledon Area

Salary: £85,000–£110,000 DOE/Following  + Bonus | Hybrid Working & Leadership Opportunity

Lead the Litigation Function of a Respected London Law Firm

Are you an experienced litigation solicitor ready to take the next step in your career? Our client, a well-established and forward-thinking law firm in Wimbledon, is seeking a dynamic Head of Litigation to drive their department’s growth, mentor a talented team, and shape the firm’s litigation strategy. This is a rare opportunity to join a reputable practice known for its collaborative culture and commitment to professional development.

The Role: Shape and Lead a High-Performing Litigation Team

• Job Title: Head of Litigation

• Location: Wimbledon, South West London (hybrid working available)

• Salary: £85,000–£110,000 DOE + performance-based bonus

• Working Pattern: Hybrid (minimum 2–3 days in-office)

• Reporting to: Managing Partner

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the litigation department, overseeing a diverse caseload with a focus on property litigation

• Develop and implement departmental strategy, driving growth and innovation

• Supervise, mentor, and develop junior solicitors and support staff

• Maintain and build strong client relationships, ensuring high standards of service and compliance

• Act as the firm’s subject matter expert on complex litigation matters

• Represent clients in court and alternative dispute resolution forums

Candidate Profile: What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with a minimum of 8 years’ PQE

• Proven track record in property litigation (commercial and residential)

• Experience managing a litigation team or acting as lead on significant matters

• Strong technical knowledge of civil procedure and property law

• Excellent client care, leadership, and communication skills

• UK private practice experience is essential

• Ability to develop business and contribute to firm-wide strategy

Benefits & Career Progression

• Competitive salary (£85,000–£110,000 DOE) plus discretionary bonus

• Hybrid working arrangement (minimum 2–3 days in-office)

• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays

• Private medical insurance

• Enhanced pension scheme

• Professional development funding and support

• Clear path to partnership and equity participation

• Supportive, inclusive team culture with regular social events

• Modern offices in Wimbledon, excellent transport links

Next Steps: Apply in Confidence

Ready to lead a thriving litigation department and make a real impact? For a confidential discussion and to request the full job description, contact:

David Hawthorne-Finch

d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions

All applications and enquiries will be handled with strict confidentiality. Our client is an equal opportunities employer.

Semi Senior Accountant

Salary: £28,000 – £35,000 + Benefits

Location: Wilmslow (Hybrid Working)

Ready to accelerate your practice career in a supportive and forward-thinking firm?

This is an excellent opportunity for a Semi Senior Accountant to join a well-established and growing accountancy practice based in Wilmslow. Our client is known for its collaborative culture, strong client relationships, and commitment to developing talent. If you're looking for real progression, exposure to a varied client portfolio, and a firm that genuinely invests in your future — this could be the role for you.

The Role – What You’ll Be Doing

As a Semi Senior Accountant, you will play a key role in supporting the delivery of high-quality accounting services to a diverse client base:

• Preparation of year-end accounts for sole traders, partnerships, and limited companies
• Assisting with and preparing management accounts
• Completion of VAT returns and basic tax computations
• Supporting client queries and building strong professional relationships
• Working alongside senior team members on more complex assignments
• Ensuring compliance with UK accounting standards and HMRC regulations

What We’re Looking For

To be successful in this role, you should demonstrate:

• 2–4 years’ UK practice experience (essential)
• Progression towards ACA / ACCA qualification (part-qualified or AAT qualified)
• Strong understanding of accounts preparation and VAT
• Proficiency in accounting software such as Xero, Sage, or QuickBooks
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines effectively

What’s on Offer

Our client offers a competitive and rewarding package designed to support both your career and wellbeing:

• Salary: £28,000 – £35,000 (dependent on experience)
• Hybrid working arrangement (office and home-based flexibility)
• Clear career progression pathway to Senior Accountant and beyond
• Company pension scheme
• Ongoing professional development and training
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Regular team events and a positive office culture

Location & Working Pattern

• Based in Wilmslow
• Hybrid working available following successful onboarding
• Full-time, permanent position

Ready to Apply?

If you are an ambitious Semi Senior Accountant looking to take the next step in your career, we want to hear from you.

Contact:
David Hawthorne-Finch
Email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion about this opportunity.

Confidentiality Statement

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Real Estate Legal Director

Location: Birmingham

Salary: £95,000 to £120,000 plus bonus and benefits

Experience: Senior level commercial real estate experience (typically 9+ years)

If you’re a senior commercial real estate lawyer who enjoys leading complex investment and portfolio work, building trusted client relationships, and delivering pragmatic advice at pace, this is a standout opportunity to join a highly rated national Real Estate team.

You’ll be part of a large, collaborative practice with a strong market reputation, advising a broad client base including investors, pension funds, corporate occupiers, developers and public sector organisations. The work is varied, high quality, and offers real scope to shape client relationships and play a visible role in a growing team.

This role suits a Legal Director who wants exposure to significant investment transactions and strategic real estate work, while working within a supportive, entrepreneurial national team.

You will be advising on a wide range of commercial real estate matters, with a particular focus on investment and traditional real estate work, including acquisitions and disposals, asset management, landlord and tenant, portfolio projects and refinancing.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading on investment acquisitions and disposals (freehold and leasehold)

• Advising on asset management and portfolio management matters

• Handling landlord and tenant transactions, including leases and related documentation

• Supporting clients on portfolio acquisitions and strategic real estate projects

• Advising on refinancing projects and working closely with finance colleagues where needed

• Managing matters from instruction through to completion, keeping delivery commercial and solutions-focused

• Building and maintaining strong client relationships and becoming a trusted extension of in-house teams

• Supervising and supporting junior lawyers, contributing to team development and knowledge sharing

• Working collaboratively with colleagues across the wider firm to deliver joined-up advice

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales

• Strong senior-level commercial real estate experience, with a particular interest in investment and traditional real estate work

• Proven ability to lead matters independently and manage complex transactions

• Confident client-facing approach with strong commercial judgement

• Collaborative working style and a genuine interest in supporting and developing others

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to deliver high-quality work to deadlines

What’s On Offer

• Salary £95,000 to £120,000 plus bonus and benefits

• High-quality investment, asset management and portfolio work within a nationally recognised team

• Collaborative culture with a strong market reputation and impressive client base

• Opportunity to play a visible role in a thriving, entrepreneurial practice

• Flexible working considered

Next Steps (How to Apply)

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We will always obtain your express permission before sharing your details with our client.

Regulatory Lawyer (Health & Safety) 

Location: Leeds

Salary: £65,000 to £95,000

Experience: Associate to Managing Associate 

Our client is looking to recruit a Regulatory Lawyer (Health & Safety) at Associate to Managing Associate level to join a growing national corporate defence and regulatory team, based in Leeds.

This role suits someone who enjoys high-quality advisory and contentious regulatory work, and who wants exposure to complex investigations, enforcement action and crisis matters. The team supports clients across a wide range of corporate defence and regulatory issues, including criminal prosecutions, compliance with health and safety and other industry regulations, risk management, and engagement with regulators.

Applications from candidates with more experience than the level suggested are welcomed.

What You’ll Be Doing

Your workload will vary depending on experience, but is likely to include:

• Health & safety advice, including compliance, incident response, investigations and enforcement or prosecution support

• Product safety and product liability-adjacent regulatory work, including product recall strategy, internal investigations and engagement with enforcement bodies

• Food safety and wider regulated-product compliance work for clients operating under heightened regulatory scrutiny

• Support on broader corporate defence and regulatory investigations and proceedings, including (where relevant) corporate manslaughter, coroner’s inquests, and other investigations and enforcement work

• Working closely with colleagues nationally to deliver strategic, joined-up advice

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified solicitor (England & Wales or equivalent) with relevant post-qualification experience

• Experience in health & safety, and ideally exposure to product recall or product safety and/or food safety regulatory work

• Confident handling investigations and enforcement-facing matters

• Calm, pragmatic advisory style and strong client care

• Sound case management skills, including financial management and meeting client expectations

• Good IT skills and confidence using case management systems, electronic time recording and Microsoft packages

• Collaborative approach and strong interpersonal skills

What’s On Offer

• Salary of £65,000 to £95,000 (dependent on experience)

• High-quality regulatory and corporate defence work with exposure to complex investigations and enforcement matters

• Opportunity to work as part of a national team while being Leeds-based

• Supportive environment with scope to develop and progress

Working Arrangements

• Leeds

• Full-time, permanent

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We will always obtain your express permission before sharing your details with our client.

Trusts, Estates and Tax Managing Associate

Salary: £85,000 – £110,000 + Bonus (DOE)

Location: Leeds

Experience: 8–15 years’ PQE (Trusts, Estates & Tax)

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Managing Associate to join our client’s highly ranked Trusts, Estates and Tax team in Leeds. This is an ideal role for an experienced private client specialist seeking to supervise high-value estate administration, manage complex matters, and develop professionally within a nationally recognised firm.

The Opportunity:

• Supervise and progress the administration of all types of estates, including taxable and non-taxable, disputed estates, business/agricultural property, and estates involving trusts

• Draft estate planning reports and advise business owners/land owners on succession and tax planning

• Advise on a broad range of high and ultra-high net worth matters, including international, agricultural, literary, and business assets

• Work closely with junior team members, providing guidance and support

• Engage in business development and private wealth initiatives

• Collaborate with specialists in mental capacity, cross-border estates, and agricultural law

What We’re Looking For:

• 8–15 years’ PQE in trusts, estates, and tax law

• STEP membership or willingness to undertake STEP qualifications

• Strong commercial acumen and client-focused approach

• Proven supervisory and case management skills

• Excellent IT skills, including experience with case management systems and Microsoft Office

• Friendly, self-starting individual with excellent interpersonal skills

• Commitment to the firm’s values of integrity, inclusion, and collaboration

What’s On Offer:

• Competitive salary based on experience (£85,000 – £110,000 DOE)

• Performance-related bonus

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Supportive, inclusive leadership and firm-wide culture

• Modern office environment in Leeds

• Advanced legal technology and resources

• Comprehensive professional development and training

• Genuine opportunities for progression and strategic input

• Recognition for diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing (UK Diversity Legal Awards, Investors in People Silver)

• Regular firm-wide and team social events

• Range of benefits including pension, health and wellbeing support, and enhanced family-friendly policies

About Our Client:

Our client is a leading national law firm, widely recognised for its inclusive culture, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to excellence. With over 1,000 colleagues and 13 offices across the UK, the firm offers a collaborative environment where everyone’s voice is heard and respected. The Trusts, Estates and Tax team is highly ranked in the Chambers High Net Worth Guide and provides expert advice to a diverse client base. The firm invests in its people through flexible working, advanced legal technology, and a strong focus on professional development and wellbeing.

Location & Working Arrangements:

Leeds. Full-time, permanent role. Flexible/hybrid working available.

How to Apply:

Apply online or send your CV to lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and the highest standards of confidentiality for all applicants.

Senior Associate / Managing Associate – Drinks, Hospitality & Leisure

Location: Leeds

Salary: £70,000 to £90,000 plus bonus (guideline, depending on experience)

Experience: 4+ years PQE

This is a brilliant chance to join a specialist national team advising operators in the drinks, hospitality and leisure sector. The work is property-led, fast-paced and commercially grounded, supporting clients who are actively acquiring, developing, optimising and transacting across large estates.

You will work closely with colleagues across corporate, employment, tax, planning, IP and disputes to deliver joined-up advice that reflects how the sector operates in practice.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Advising on freehold and leasehold site acquisitions and disposals

• Supporting development and pre-let arrangements

• Handling portfolio work, including re-gears and estate optimisation

• Advising on day-to-day estate management matters, including landlord and tenant work

• Drafting and negotiating licences, variations, easements and ancillary agreements

• Spotting operator-specific issues that sit alongside real estate (for example TUPE, TOGC, capital allowances and licensing or regulatory touchpoints) and bringing in specialist support where needed

• Building strong client relationships and contributing to business development

• Collaborating with colleagues across the national team and wider firm

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales

• 4+ years’ PQE with strong real estate experience (ideally with exposure to retail, leisure or hospitality assets)

• Confident drafting and negotiation skills across commercial property documentation

• Commercial, pragmatic approach and ability to work at pace

• Strong client handling skills and a collaborative working style

Desirable

• Experience advising operator clients (pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels or wider leisure)

• Experience of portfolio re-gears and high-volume transactional programmes

• Interest in developing a profile in the hospitality and leisure sector

What’s On Offer

• Salary guideline £70,000 to £90,000 plus bonus (depending on experience)

• High-quality, sector-focused work with strong client exposure

• National platform with cross-office collaboration and specialist support

• Clear progression pathway with leadership support

• Supportive, inclusive culture with a focus on recognition, development and wellbeing

About Our Client

Our client is a large, full-service UK law firm with a national footprint and a strong reputation for technical excellence and commercial delivery. The firm is known for its collaborative culture and commitment to developing its people, with clear progression pathways and strong support for networking and relationship building.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Leeds

• Full-time, permanent role

• Flexible working considered

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.