Accountancy Recruitment in Birmingham – Opportunities and Trends

10/05/24 • 1 min

"Hello and welcome to CareerCast, the podcast where we explore the ins and outs of the job market, career growth, and recruitment trends. I’m Adrian Lawrence your host, and in today’s episode, we’re diving into the dynamic world of accountancy recruitment in Birmingham! If you’re a finance professional looking for your next big opportunity, or a firm in search of the best accounting talent, this episode is for you."

Host: "Birmingham, the UK's second-largest city, is more than just a hub for industry and commerce. It's a growing center for finance and professional services, particularly accounting and audit. In recent years, Birmingham has attracted numerous businesses and startups, creating a bustling environment for accountants of all levels. From junior finance roles to senior audit managers, the demand for accounting professionals in this region is booming."

Host: "But why Birmingham? Well, the city offers a strategic location with excellent connectivity to London, yet has a much more affordable cost of living. Many accounting firms, from the Big Four to local boutiques, have offices here. Plus, the growth of tech companies, financial services, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) in the area means more opportunities for accountants across various sectors."

Host: "So, what’s happening in the Birmingham accountancy recruitment market right now? Let's break down some of the key trends."

**1. Demand for Hybrid Skills

Host: "Employers in Birmingham are not just looking for number crunchers. The market is increasingly seeking accountants who are tech-savvy and have skills in data analysis, financial modeling, and even experience with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. Employers value candidates who can not only handle traditional accounting duties but also provide strategic insights using modern technology."

**2. Focus on Newly Qualified Accountants

Host: "There's also a noticeable demand for newly qualified accountants, particularly those with ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualifications. Companies are eager to bring on board fresh talent with up-to-date knowledge of accounting standards and practices. If you’re a recently qualified accountant in Birmingham, this is an excellent time to explore new opportunities!"

**3. Flexible Working Arrangements

Host: "Flexible work is here to stay. The pandemic shifted how we work, and in Birmingham, accountancy firms have embraced this change. Many are offering hybrid work models, allowing accountants to split their time between home and the office. This flexibility is not just a perk—it’s becoming an expectation for candidates, especially those with families or long commutes."

**4. Rise in Temporary and Interim Roles

Host: "Interestingly, there's been a rise in temporary and interim roles. Companies dealing with project-based work, system implementations, or seasonal peaks are hiring contract accountants to fill short-term needs. For professionals, these roles can be a great way to gain diverse experience, build a network, and sometimes even secure a permanent position."

Host: "If you're an accountant on the job hunt in Birmingham, here are a few tips to maximize your chances of success."

1. Update Your CV and LinkedIn Profile

Host: "Ensure your CV is up-to-date and tailored to highlight the skills and experiences relevant to the role you’re applying for. Don’t forget to update your LinkedIn profile as well, since recruiters and employers frequently use the platform to source candidates."

2. Network and Join Professional Groups

Host: "Networking is key in the accountancy sector. Birmingham has a vibrant community of finance professionals. Consider joining local professional groups or attending events by bodies like ICAEW, ACCA, or CIMA. These can be valuable for both learning about new opportunities and building relationships with potential employers."

Why not reach out to our team today.

Accountancy Capital

Host: "So, what’s happening in the Birmingham accountancy recruitment market right now? Let's break down some of the key trends."

**1. Demand for Hybrid Skills

**2. Focus on Newly Qualified Accountants

**3. Flexible Working Arrangements

**4. Rise in Temporary and Interim Roles

Host: "If you're an accountant on the job hunt in Birmingham, here are a few tips to maximize your chances of success."

1. Update Your CV and LinkedIn Profile

2. Network and Join Professional Groups

Why not reach out to our team today.

Accountancy Capital

Previous Episode

Unlocking Your PAYE Reference Number

Hey there, and welcome to another episode of The Tax Talk, the podcast where we simplify all things tax and payroll. Whether you're just getting started with your employment or running your own business, we've got you covered. Today, we're diving into a topic that confuses many: finding your PAYE reference number.

Now, whether you're an employee or an employer, the PAYE reference number is something you’re bound to come across. But what is it, why is it important, and most crucially, how can you find it? We’re about to break it all down for you, step by step.

Section 1: What Is a PAYE Reference Number?

Before we jump into where you can find your PAYE reference number, let's start with the basics.

The PAYE reference number is a code given to an employer by HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs) when they register as an employer. PAYE stands for "Pay As You Earn," which is the system used by HMRC to collect income tax and National Insurance from employees directly via payroll. The PAYE reference number is crucial because it helps HMRC identify your employer and manage the income tax and National Insurance records for each employee.

If you're an employee, this number will be attached to your pay, and it’s especially important when you're dealing with tax returns, applying for loans or mortgages, or even when switching jobs.

For employers, it’s vital for submitting payroll information, calculating deductions, and communicating with HMRC.

Section 2: Why Do You Need Your PAYE Reference Number?

So, why is this number so important? As an employee, you might need your PAYE reference number for a variety of reasons:

Filing Tax Returns: Whether you’re completing a self-assessment or need to check your tax records, your PAYE reference will be required.
Loan Applications: Banks or lenders may request this number to verify your employment or income.
Tax Queries: If you ever need to contact HMRC to discuss your tax code, adjustments, or any issues with tax deductions, your PAYE reference will likely be asked for.
Changing Jobs: When switching employers, your new employer will often use this reference number to ensure your tax records are properly transferred.

If you’re an employer, you’ll need your PAYE reference number for:

Submitting Real Time Information (RTI) reports to HMRC.
Issuing P60 and P45 forms.
Ensuring the correct tax codes are applied for your employees.

So, it’s safe to say, this little number has big importance!

Section 3: How to Find Your PAYE Reference Number (For Employees)

Now, let’s get to the big question. How do you find this mysterious PAYE reference number if you're an employee?

There are several places where you can locate it:

Your Payslip: One of the easiest places to check is your payslip. Your employer usually includes the PAYE reference number somewhere on the slip, usually near the payroll number.
Your P60 or P45 Form: If you’ve ever received a P60 (the form that summarizes your pay and tax deductions for the year) or a P45 (the form given when you leave a job), you'll find the PAYE reference number listed here. The P60 is issued at the end of every tax year, so keep this form handy!

Section 4: Finding the PAYE Reference Number as an Employer

Now, if you’re an employer, and you’ve just registered your business with HMRC, you’ll be assigned a PAYE reference number for your payroll scheme. Here’s where to look for it:

HMRC Registration Documents: When you first register as an employer with HMRC, they send you an Employer's PAYE letter.

Section 5: What Does the PAYE Reference Number Look Like?

The PAYE reference is usually made up of two parts. The first part is a three-digit code that identifies the tax office that manages your employer's payroll. The second part is a unique reference number for your employer, often separated by a slash. For example, it might look like this: 123/AB45678.

Why not read our helpful Article on our FD Capital website.

Next Episode

Numbers Game: Navigating Accountancy Recruitment in Oxford and Cambridge

Host: "Welcome to 'Numbers Game,' the podcast where we dive deep into the world of finance, accounting, and everything in between. I’m your host, Adrian Lawrence, and today, we’re going to explore the dynamic world of accountancy recruitment in two of the UK's most prestigious cities – Oxford and Cambridge. We'll be discussing the current trends, the challenges, and what you can do to land that dream job in this competitive market."

Host: "Oxford and Cambridge. These two cities are renowned worldwide, not just for their universities but also for their thriving professional landscapes. When it comes to accountancy, both cities host a plethora of opportunities, thanks to their diverse economies, which include everything from educational institutions to tech startups, research organizations, and established financial firms."

"First, let's talk numbers. According to recent statistics, the demand for accountants in both Oxford and Cambridge has seen a steady increase over the past few years. The financial services sector in both cities is expanding, driven by the universities' economic influence and the growth of technology and science parks. With a growing number of businesses, the need for skilled accountants, financial analysts, and auditors is at an all-time high."

"However, the unique environments of Oxford and Cambridge mean that recruitment here is not exactly like in London or other major cities. Both cities have a blend of traditional and modern businesses, which means the recruitment process can vary widely depending on the company and the role."

Host: "Let's break down the recruitment landscape. In Oxford and Cambridge, firms range from the 'Big Four' accounting giants, like Deloitte and PwC, to smaller boutique firms and startups. This diversity creates a wide array of opportunities for candidates – but it also means that the skills and attributes sought after can vary significantly."

"For example, larger firms in these cities tend to prefer candidates with strong academic backgrounds and relevant work experience, often requiring specific qualifications such as ACA, ACCA, or CIMA. This is where the universities come into play – Oxford and Cambridge universities themselves produce a wealth of talent every year. Graduates from these institutions are highly sought after, particularly because of their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and the rigorous academic training they receive."

"But it's not just about academic excellence. Recruiters in these cities are increasingly looking for candidates who display a blend of technical know-how and softer skills. That means strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Given the smaller, more collaborative nature of many firms in these cities, the ability to work well in a team and a willingness to take on varied tasks is crucial."

Host: "So, what are the current trends in accountancy recruitment in Oxford and Cambridge? One key trend is the growing emphasis on technology. As digital transformation sweeps across industries, the accounting sector is no exception. Firms are looking for candidates who not only have traditional accounting skills but also a strong grasp of digital tools and software, such as advanced Excel skills, data analytics tools, and even experience with artificial intelligence in financial modeling."

"Another trend is the increasing importance of flexible working arrangements. Post-pandemic, many firms in Oxford and Cambridge have adopted hybrid working models. This shift means recruiters are searching for candidates who are not just technically competent, but also able to thrive in remote or flexible work environments. Being able to work autonomously and stay productive without the traditional office setup is a big plus for many employers in these cities."

Reach out to our team today for

Accountancy Capital - Oxford Team

Accountancy Capital - Cambridge Team