Assistant Accountant

Hays PLC; Stoke-on-Trent; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading finance company seeks a driven Assistant Accountant in Stoke-on-Trent. You'll support financial decision-making by preparing management reports and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. With opportunities for career growth and development, join a supportive team and enjoy excellent benefits like 25 days holiday and a competitive pension scheme.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Competitive pension scheme

Life assurance benefits

On-site parking

On-site canteen

Long service rewards

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Assistant Accountant or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of financial accounting principles.
• Advanced Excel skills for data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing management reports and financial statements.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles.
• Manage fixed asset accounting and VAT returns.

Skills

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to work independently

Teamwork

Education

AAT Level 4

CIMA certification (desired)

Tools

Sage

PeopleSoft

QuickBooks

Xero

Sage 1000 (beneficial)

Job description

Assistant Accountant, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire

About the Role

Our client is looking for a driven and detail-oriented Assistant Accountant to join their finance team. In this role, you will work closely with the Finance Manager, assisting in the preparation of management reports and ensuring compliance with accounting principles and company policies. You will also play a key role in supporting financial decision-making by analysing budgets, forecasts, and financial statements.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation of management reports.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles and company policies.
• Perform bank reconciliations.
• Manage fixed asset accounting.
• Prepare VAT returns and handle intercompany transactions.
• Support year-end audits.
• Handle purchase ledger transactions.
• Prepare and analyse financial statements, budgets, and forecasts.
• Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying areas for improvement.
• Conduct variance analysis to identify trends and potential issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support decision-making processes.
• Monitor cash balances and cash flow.
• Carry out credit control activities.
• Perform ad hoc duties as required to support senior management.

Skills & Qualifications

• AAT Level 4 minimum qualification, with a desire to pursue CIMA certification.
• Proven experience as an Assistant Accountant or in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of financial accounting principles and practices.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, PeopleSoft, QuickBooks, Xero).
• Excellent analytical skills with keen attention to detail.
• Advanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience of mentoring junior staff is a plus.
• Experience with Sage 1000 is beneficial.

Why Join Our Client?

This is an exciting opportunity for a finance professional looking for career growth and development. You will play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of the finance department, working in a supportive environment that values expertise, dedication, and a strong work ethic.

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Life assurance benefits
• On-site parking
• On-site canteen
• Long service rewards

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion on your career.