The UK accountancy profession is changing. Increasingly, accountants are choosing to work on an interim or contract basis rather than pursuing traditional permanent roles. Interim work offers flexibility, variety, and often higher earnings — but it also comes with responsibilities and challenges. At Ten Percent Financial Recruitment, we specialise in connecting accountants with interim, contract and permanent opportunities. Here’s our guide to becoming an interim or contract accountant in the UK.
What Is an Interim Accountant?
An interim or contract accountant is a finance professional who works for an employer on a temporary basis, typically to:
- Cover staff absences (maternity, illness, secondment).
- Provide expertise for specific projects (e.g. audits, mergers, systems changeovers).
- Support growth or restructuring.
Assignments may last a few weeks or extend to 12+ months.
Why Choose Interim Work?
Becoming a contract accountant has many advantages:
- Flexibility – Choose when and where you work.
- Variety – Gain experience across industries and sectors.
- Earnings – Day rates are often higher than permanent salaries.
- Networking – Build relationships with multiple employers.
- Control – Take time off between contracts if you wish.
Key Skills for Interim Accountants
Employers look for interim accountants who can:
- Hit the ground running with minimal supervision.
- Demonstrate strong technical skills (audit, tax, financial reporting, management accounts).
- Manage projects effectively and deliver results quickly.
- Adapt to new teams and systems.
Day Rates and Pay
Rates vary depending on experience, location, and role. As a guide:
- Part-Qualified Accountants – £150–£250 per day.
- Qualified Accountants (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) – £250–£450 per day.
- Senior/FD Level – £500–£900+ per day.
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How to Become an Interim Accountant
- Update your CV – Highlight technical expertise and achievements.
- Decide your status – Will you work as a limited company contractor, via an umbrella company, or as PAYE?
- Register with a specialist recruiter – Join Ten Percent Financial to access interim opportunities.
- Stay flexible – Being open to short-notice roles increases chances of success.
- Plan ahead – Manage cash flow for gaps between assignments.
Challenges of Interim Work
- Lack of guaranteed long-term security.
- Responsibility for your own tax/insurance.
- Need to adapt quickly to new workplaces.
With the right preparation and support, these challenges are manageable.
How Ten Percent Financial Can Help
At Ten Percent Financial, we connect qualified accountants with interim, contract and permanent roles across the UK. We also:
- Provide guidance on CVs and day rates.
- Share market insights and salary surveys.
- Work with firms from SMEs to large corporates.
👉 Register today for access to interim and permanent roles.