Assistant Accountant

KCR; Sunderland; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable manufacturing company in Sunderland is seeking an ambitious Assistant Accountant to support the Finance Manager. This role involves preparing management accounts, budgeting, and providing financial analysis. Candidates should be actively studying AAT/ACCA/CIMA or have relevant experience. The position offers a competitive salary between £32,000 and £38,000, as well as study support when applicable, making it an excellent opportunity for career growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Study support available

Qualifications

• Must be studying or qualified in AAT/ACCA/CIMA.
• Experience in a finance role is preferred but not essential.
• Understanding of accounting principles is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts.
• Support month-end processes including journals and accruals.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities.
• Provide financial analysis for decision-making.
• Maintain accurate financial records.
• Support audits and enhance finance processes.

Skills

AAT/ACCA/CIMA (actively studying or qualified by experience)

Experience within a finance role

Core accounting principles

Confidence with Excel and accounting software

Attention to detail

Organisational skills

Ability to meet deadlines

Strong communication skills

Job description

KCR are supporting a well‑established and growing manufacturing business in Sunderland in their search for an ambitious Assistant Accountant to join its finance team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their career in a fast‑paced, hands‑on environment. The company will consider candidates who are actively studying (AAT/ACCA/CIMA) or qualified by experience.

The Assistant Accountant will support the Finance Manager with the production of accurate and timely financial information, taking responsibility for tasks up to and including management accounts. The role also provides support across the wider finance function, including Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR), as required.

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts
• Support month‑end processes including journals, accruals, and prepayments
• Maintain balance sheet reconciliations
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting activities
• Provide financial analysis to support operational decision‑making
• Support AP and AR teams during busy periods or as needed
• Assist with invoice processing, supplier statement reconciliations, and payment runs
• Help monitor customer accounts, chase outstanding debt, and resolve queries
• Ensure accurate and timely posting of transactions
• Maintain accurate financial records and documentation
• Assist with internal and external audits
• Support continuous improvement of finance processes and controls
• Work collaboratively with operational teams across the business

Skills & Experience

• Actively studying AAT/ACCA/CIMA or qualified by experience
• Experience within a finance role, ideally within manufacturing (preferred but not essential)
• Strong understanding of core accounting principles
• Confident with Excel and accounting software
• Excellent attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to work to deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
• Strong communication skills and a proactive approach

Benefits

• Competitive salary (£32–38k depending on experience)
• Study support available (if applicable)