Bookkeeper

Happytown; Newtownards; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A dynamic soft-play centre in Northern Ireland is looking for a detail-oriented Bookkeeper to manage financial operations and produce accurate financial reports. You will handle payroll, VAT returns, and cash flow forecasting. The ideal candidate should have bookkeeping experience, proficiency in accounting software, and strong attention to detail. This part-time position offers flexible hours and a competitive salary negotiable at the interview stage.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible working hours

Dynamic workplace

Qualifications

• 1-3 years of proven bookkeeping experience.
• Knowledge of VAT regulations and pension auto-enrolment.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Maintain accounting system with accurate data entry.
• Process payroll and pension contributions.
• Prepare and file VAT returns.
• Generate monthly profit and loss reports.
• Monitor and forecast cash flow.

Skills

Proven bookkeeping experience

Proficiency in UK accounting software

Strong Excel skills

Knowledge of UK payroll rules

Excellent organizational skills

Tools

Xero

QuickBooks

Sage

Fusemetrix

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Bookkeeper (Happy Town)

Location: Newtownards, Co Down, Northern Ireland

Type: Part-time, 12-16 hours per week

Reports to: Centre Manager / Business Owner

About Us

We are a dynamic soft-play centre committed to creating fun, safe, and memorable experiences for families. As we continue to grow, we're looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Bookkeeper to manage the centre’s financial operations and support smooth, compliant reporting.

Job Summary

The Bookkeeper will maintain the accounting system, manage day-to-day financial activities, and produce accurate and timely financial reports, including VAT returns, payroll, month-end and year-end accounts. You will also provide cash flow forecasting, supplier payments, and respond to email and ad-hoc administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain the accounting system: Accurate daily data entry of sales, purchases, receipts, payments and general ledger updates using Xero, QuickBooks, Sage or similar software
• Monthly Payroll & Pensions Returns: Process payroll, pensions contributions, and submit related RTI/Pensions auto-enrolment returns.
• VAT Returns: Prepare and file periodic VAT returns, ensuring HMRC compliance and timely submission
• Monthly Profit & Loss Analysis: Generate monthly P&L reports and explain variances to management, summarising operational performance
• Month-End Journals: Post accruals, prepayments, depreciation and adjust general ledger at month-end.
• Cash Flow Forecasting: Monitor and forecast cash flow to assist in financial planning and decision-making
• Supplier Payments: Process accounts payable, schedule payment runs, handle supplier queries.
• Balance Credit Card Transactions: Reconcile credit card statements versus entries, identify discrepancies.
• Email & Ad-Hoc Support: Respond to finance-related emails, support centre operations with occasional tasks.
• Year-End Closing: Reconcile accounts, prepare trial balance and assist external accountant/auditor in closing off year-end accounts.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven bookkeeping experience (1–3 years) in small businesses or service sectors (retail, hospitality, leisure).
• Proficiency in UK accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage) and strong Excel skills.
• Knowledge of UK payroll rules, pension auto-enrolment and VAT regulations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable Qualifications & Attributes

• A hands-on, proactive attitude and ability to work collaboratively across teams.
• High integrity, reliability and confidentiality in handling financial data.
• Experience using Fusemetrix

Success Criteria

• Accurate month-end accounts prepared on time, with minimal corrections.
• VAT returns filed without late submissions or penalties.
• Payroll processed accurately, with timely pension contributions.
• Reliable cash flow forecasts supporting effective supplier management.
• Prompt supplier payments and error-free reconciliations, especially of credit cards.
• Clear and helpful financial reporting to support management decisions.

What’s in it for You?

• Competitive salary to be discussed at interview stage
• A dynamic workplace where the role contributes directly to guest experience and smooth centre operations.
• Flexible working hours.

How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your payroll, VAT, and any other relevant experience to

Please note that any job offer will be subject to references from previous employer

Skills:

• Accountancy
• Finance
• Bookkeeper
• Book Keeping
• Accounts