Sheridan Maine Team, Published 15 July 2026
The UK accountancy sector has remained resilient despite a challenging business environment, and the demand for skilled practice accountants shows little sign of slowing down. As businesses continue to navigate changes to tax legislation, digital reporting requirements and ongoing cost pressures, the role of the practice accountant has become more important than ever. This naturally raises common questions: What does a practice accountant do? What do you need to be a certified practising accountant? And what is the difference between a chartered accountant and a certified practising accountant?
What practice accountants do & routes to qualification
Working within an accountancy practice offers professionals the opportunity to support a wide range of clients, from owner-managed businesses to larger corporate organisations. This variety is one of the key attractions of the profession, allowing accountants to develop broad technical knowledge while building strong commercial awareness. It also makes careers in accounting jobs within practice both rewarding and highly transferable. In practical terms, practice accountants typically prepare statutory accounts, manage tax compliance, deliver audits, implement bookkeeping systems, and provide cash flow forecasting, budgeting and advisory support tailored to each client’s needs.
The recruitment market reflects this demand. Many firms across the UK are continuing to recruit experienced professionals, particularly those who are ACA or ACCA qualified. A qualified accountant with experience in client management, statutory accounts or tax is often presented with multiple career opportunities, especially as firms look to strengthen their advisory services. For those asking what you need to be a certified practising accountant, most routes involve completing a recognised professional qualification (such as ACCA, ACA, or equivalent), achieving relevant practical experience within an accountancy practice, meeting ongoing CPD requirements, and adhering to ethical and regulatory standards.
Technology’s impact on the role
Technology has also changed the day-to-day responsibilities of the modern practice accountant. Cloud-based accounting software and automation have reduced the amount of time spent on routine processing, allowing accountants to focus on providing strategic advice to clients. Businesses increasingly expect their accountants to offer guidance on growth, profitability and financial planning rather than simply preparing annual accounts. For small businesses, the tasks that practice accountants handle commonly include VAT returns, payroll processing, management accounts, Making Tax Digital compliance, software setup and training, and advice on funding, pricing and tax efficiency.
Chartered vs certified
The shortage of experienced finance professionals continues to shape the recruitment landscape. As a result, qualified accountants with strong communication skills and a commercial mindset remain highly sought after. Employers are placing greater emphasis on candidates who can build long-term client relationships while adapting to changing legislation and evolving client expectations. In terms of credentials, the difference between a chartered accountant and a certified practising accountant is largely about the qualification pathway and professional body: “chartered accountant” commonly refers to ACA, CA or ICAEW/ICAS/Chartered bodies, while “certified practising accountant” typically refers to ACCA (or overseas CPA/CPA-equivalent). Both are routes to becoming a qualified accountant, and in the UK both chartered and certified professionals can work in practice, sign off certain reports subject to licensing, and provide a broad range of services within an accountancy practice.
Specialist roles and services on the rise
The range of accounting jobs available has also expanded in recent years. Alongside traditional audit and accounts roles, firms are investing in specialist teams covering tax, business advisory, outsourced finance and corporate finance. This provides accountants with more opportunities to specialise while remaining within an accountancy practice environment. For small businesses, this means access to dedicated expertise, such as R&D tax reliefs, sector-specific KPIs, and digital finance transformation, delivered by experienced practice accountants.
What employers and candidates value now
For employers, attracting the right talent requires more than offering a competitive salary. Candidates increasingly value career progression, flexible working and a positive workplace culture. Firms that can demonstrate these qualities are often better placed to secure experienced qualified accountants in an increasingly competitive market. Whether you are an employer looking to grow your team or a practice accountant considering your next move, the UK market continues to offer strong opportunities. As businesses face new challenges and increasing demand for financial expertise, accounting jobs within accountancy practice remain an attractive career choice for professionals at every stage of their career.
