Joanne Smith profile picture

Joanne Smith

Chartered Accountant

Kent, United Kingdom
Independent
Experience: 30+ years

Profile Summary

I am a Chartered Accountant with over 30 years of experience, having trained in a London practice before progressing through senior finance roles within a global business. Over the past decade, I have particularly enjoyed working closely with SMEs, supporting them with both day-to-day and strategic financial needs. My work covers statutory accounts, corporation tax, VAT, payroll, and system implementation and improvement. I also help businesses with forecasting, budgeting, and KPI measurement to strengthen performance and financial control. I take a hands-on, detailed approach where required, but I’m equally comfortable stepping back to provide broader strategic accounting and tax advice. If you are looking for a proactive and flexible accountant, I aim to provide practical support that truly adds value.

Accounting Services Offered

Income Tax and Self Assessment

I prepare personal tax returns and provide advice to ensure individuals remain compliant and tax efficient.

Accounting and Bookkeeping

I maintain accurate financial records, prepare statutory accounts, and support effective bookkeeping systems.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

I manage VAT registrations, returns, and compliance while advising on VAT-related matters.

Business Advice and Support

I provide forecasting, budgeting, KPI measurement, and system improvement to strengthen financial control and performance.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT)

I offer guidance on capital gains matters and assist with reporting where required.

Corporation Tax (CT)

I prepare corporation tax returns and provide planning support to help businesses meet their obligations efficiently.

Who Joanne Smith Works With

I work primarily with small and medium-sized businesses that need reliable accounting, tax, and financial management support. Many of my clients appreciate having an experienced professional who understands both operational challenges and long-term business planning. I am well suited to business owners who want more than compliance and are looking for guidance that helps them improve systems, manage performance, and plan ahead. My experience across different industries allows me to adapt my service to a wide range of business needs.

Accounting Philosophy & Approach

I believe accounting should support decision-making, not just meet deadlines. My approach combines detailed financial oversight with a strategic perspective, ensuring businesses have both accurate records and meaningful insight. By improving systems, measuring KPIs, and providing forward-looking forecasts and budgets, I help clients gain clarity and control. My goal is to deliver practical advice in a straightforward way, enabling business owners to focus on growth with confidence.

Fees & Charges

Fees are based on the level of service required, the size of the business, and the complexity of the work involved. Services can range from routine compliance such as accounts, VAT, and payroll to more detailed advisory, system improvements, and performance analysis. Many clients prefer fixed-fee arrangements for ongoing services, providing clarity and predictable costs. Additional or specialist work is discussed and agreed separately to ensure transparency. All fees are agreed in advance, with a flexible approach designed to match the specific needs of each business.

Areas Served

Kent, United Kingdom

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you only prepare accounts and tax returns?

No, I also help with system improvements, forecasting, budgeting, and KPI measurement to support better business performance.

Can you assist with payroll and VAT?

Yes, I manage payroll services and VAT compliance as part of my core offerings.

Do you work with small businesses?

Yes, SMEs are a key focus of my work, and I understand their operational and financial challenges.

Can you provide strategic financial advice?

Yes, alongside day-to-day support, I offer wider strategic guidance on accounting and tax matters.

Do you help improve accounting systems?

Yes, I assist with system implementation and improvements to make financial processes more efficient.

Is your service tailored to each business?

Absolutely, I provide flexible and proactive support designed around each client’s specific needs.