Assistant Accountant/Accountant

Paul Mitchell Associates; East Midlands; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A charity organization is seeking an Assistant Accountant/Accountant to manage financial operations and support decision-making. This full-time role is based in Leicester, offering a salary of £30-£35K and flexible working options. The ideal candidate will be AAT qualified or have relevant qualifications and have experience in charity finance. Responsibilities include managing financial systems, preparing reports, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays

Pension scheme with employer contributions

Qualifications

• AAT qualified or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA, or equivalent.
• Experience in a similar finance role, ideally in charity.
• Proficiency in accounting software like Sage or Xero.

Responsibilities

• Manage financial systems including Sage.
• Prepare monthly management accounts.
• Monitor budgets and financial targets.

Skills

AAT qualified or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA

Proven experience in finance roles

Proficiency in accounting software

Advanced Excel skills

Excellent interpersonal skills

Education

Finance qualification

Tools

Sage

Xero

Job description

Assistant Accountant/Accountant - Leicester

Salary £30-£35K

Overview

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Assistant Accountant/Accountantto join its team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful work in the charity sector while ensuring the smooth operation of financial processes. The position is full-time (35 hours per week) with a salary of circa £35,000 and is based in Leicester, with hybrid working arrangements considered.

Responsibilities

As an Assistant Accountant/Accountant, you will play a pivotal role in managing financial operations and supporting strategic decision-making. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Managing and maintaining financial systems, including Sage.
• Preparing monthly management accounts and additional reports for senior management.
• Monitoring progress against budgets, forecasts, and other financial targets.
• Preparing financial reports for the Council of Trustees.
• Processing income, expenditure, invoices, and monthly bank reconciliations.
• Overseeing the annual budgeting process and supporting budget holders with forecasting and financial planning.
• Ensuring compliance with charity, financial, and tax regulations.
• Collaborating with external auditors and preparing for the annual audit and year-end accounts.
• Administering restricted funds, grants, and project budgets, including funder reporting.
• Supporting junior finance staff and contributing to the improvement of financial processes.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:

Essential:

• AAT qualified or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA, or equivalent finance qualification.
• Proven experience in a similar finance role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero, or similar).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Advanced Excel skills and the ability to analyse and present financial data effectively.
• Understanding of charity finance, including restricted and unrestricted funds an advantage but not essential.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues.
• Commitment to the values and mission of the organization.

Desirable:

• Experience in financial reporting for externally funded projects (e.g., National Lottery Heritage Fund).
• Knowledge of SORP and charity accounting standards is desirable.

Day-to-Day

On a typical day, you will:

• Process financial transactions and maintain accurate records.
• Prepare and analyse financial reports to support decision-making.
• Collaborate with team members to monitor budgets and forecasts.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and best practices.
• Provide guidance and support to junior finance staff.
• Contribute to the development of efficient financial processes.

Benefits

We offer a supportive and flexible working environment, along with the following benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements, including potential hybrid working.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time).
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• The opportunity to use your financial expertise to make a positive impact.