Full job descriptionAssistant Accountant
*Job Type: Full-time, temporary assignment (100% office based)
*Location: Epsom, Surrey
*Hourly rate: £16.48- £19.23 per hour PAYE or £20.92- £24.48 per hour via an umbrella company
*Length of assignment: ASAP to 18th of Dec (possible extension)
*Hours: 09.00- 17.00 (35 hours per week)
We are recruiting for a Assistant Accountant to join a busy finance team within a well-established educational setting. Reporting to the Bursar, this Assistant Accountant position offers broad exposure across purchase ledger, sales ledger, banking, payroll administration and VAT, making it an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys a varied finance role.
Day-to-day of the role
*Process purchase orders, supplier invoices and payment runs accurately and on time.
*Raise invoices for fees and additional services, while monitoring outstanding balances and following up overdue accounts.
*Reconcile bank receipts, remittances and regular bank statements, and monitor daily balances and cash flow.
*Review staff expense claims, check receipts and approvals, and process payments efficiently.
*Support payroll administration, including employee changes, payroll-related payments, new starters and leavers, and staff queries.
*Liaise with local authorities, suppliers, HMRC, pension contacts and the external payroll provider where required.
*Produce quarterly VAT returns and assist with PAYE-related processes.
*Maintain accurate financial records, journals, filing systems and finance system data.
*Manage the finance inbox and provide additional reporting and administrative support to the Bursar.
Required Skills & Qualifications
*Previous experience in a finance, accounts or bookkeeping role.
*Strong understanding of purchase ledger, sales ledger and bank reconciliations.
*Payroll administration experience and confidence handling payroll-related queries.
*Good working knowledge of finance systems and Microsoft Excel.
*Excellent attention to detail with strong organisational skills.
*Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a busy environment.
*Strong communication skills and a professional approach when dealing with internal and external stakeholders.
*Experience within a school, charity or not-for-profit setting would be beneficial.
*Knowledge of VAT returns, HMRC processes or an AAT qualification would be advantageous.
Benefits
*Competitive salary dependent on experience.
*Opportunity to join a well-established educational environment.
*Varied Assistant Accountant role with exposure across multiple finance functions.
*Supportive team environment with close involvement in day-to-day finance operations.
*Ideally have experience working in an education set up.