Finance Assistant

Elizabeth Michael Associates LTD; Lowton; On-site; GBP 19,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

Elizabeth Michael Associates LTD is seeking a Finance Assistant / Payroll (Temp to perm) based near Warrington. The role covers day-to-day finance and payroll duties, ensuring accurate salary payments and compliant reporting.

You will manage payroll for 165 staff, handle deductions, pensions, VAT and month-end tasks while maintaining precise records. Strong Excel and HMRC knowledge are essential.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in finance and payroll.
• Strong knowledge of PAYE, National Insurance and pensions.
• Experience with month end accounts and reconciliations.
• Understanding of VAT and financial reporting.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and accounting software.
• Excellent numerical skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll process for 165 staff.
• Process payroll adjustments, overtime, deductions, sick pay and maternity pay.
• Maintain employee payroll records (new starters, leavers, salary changes).
• Calculate and administer pension contributions in line with regulations.
• Complete payroll reconciliations and HMRC submissions.
• Perform month-end procedures (journals, accruals, prepayments).
• Carry out reconciliations of bank, balance sheet and control accounts.
• Assist with VAT returns, calculations and reconciliations.

Skills

Payroll processing

PAYE & NI knowledge

Month-end reconciliations

VAT & reporting

Excel & accounting software

Numerical accuracy

Organisation & time management

HMRC compliance

Communication & problem-solving

Deadline-driven

Confidentiality

Teamwork

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Accounting software

Job description

Finance Assistant / Payroll – Temp to perm

WA3, Warrington

Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm

£16.70 per hour

Temp to perm

Role Purpose

To manage the day to day finance and payroll functions, ensuring accurate and timely salary payments, financial reporting and compliance with statutory requirements.

Role Responsibilities

• Manage the end to end payroll process for 165 staff
• Process payroll adjustments, overtime, deductions, sick pay and maternity pay
• Maintain accurate employee payroll records, including new starters, leavers and salary changes
• Calculate and administer pension contributions, ensuring compliance with pension regulations
• Complete payroll reconciliations and submit statutory information to HMRC
• Complete month-end procedures, including journals, accruals and prepayments
• Carry out bank, balance sheet and control account reconciliations
• Assist with VAT returns, calculations and reconciliations
• Monitor financial transactions and investigate any discrepancies
• Support procurement processes, supplier contracts and financial compliance
• Reconcile company credit card statements and maintain accurate financial records
• Respond to employee payroll and pension queries in a professional and timely manner
• Assist with financial audits and provide supporting documentation when required
• Ensure compliance with financial policies, payroll legislation and statutory requirements
• Provide support and cover for the Finance and Payroll Manager when required

Skills required

• Previous experience in finance and payroll
• Strong knowledge of PAYE, National Insurance and pensions
• Experience with month end accounts and reconciliations
• Understanding of VAT and financial reporting
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and accounting software
• Excellent numerical skills and attention to detail
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Knowledge of HMRC regulations and payroll compliance
• Good communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage workloads
• Ability to handle confidential information professionally
• Able to work independently and as part of a team