Junior Finance Assistant

This is a hands‑on junior finance role ideal for someone at the early stages of their AAT qualification (Level 1–3), with the ambition to progress to ACCA. The role sits within a small, SME‑style finance team, supporting day‑to‑day accounting operations, month‑end routines, and system administration. The business currently uses Xero, with a planned transition to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central in the next 12 months, so the role suits someone comfortable with cloud systems and process change.

Key Responsibilities

Daily & Weekly Operations

• Process supplier invoices, ensuring correct coding, approvals, and supporting documentation.
• Prepare and post bank transactions; assist with daily bank reconciliation.
• Manage accounts payable inbox and supplier queries.
• Assist with accounts receivable tasks: raising invoices, allocating receipts, and chasing overdue balances.
• Maintain accurate records for expenses, credit cards, and staff reimbursements using Navan.
• Keep digital filing organised and up to date.

Month‑End & Reporting Support

• Prepare prepayments and accruals schedules under guidance.
• Support balance sheet reconciliations (bank, control accounts, fixed assets, AP/AR).
• Assist with posting journals and maintaining the general ledger.
• Run standard month‑end reports from Xero and assist with variance analysis.

Systems & Process

• Operate confidently within Xero, including tracking categories, bank rules, and basic reporting.
• Support the finance team during the migration to Dynamics 365, including data cleansing, testing, and user acceptance tasks.
• Help document finance processes and maintain internal controls.
  
  

Compliance & Administration

• Assist with VAT return preparation and supporting schedules.
• Support ad‑hoc finance projects, audits, and operational improvements.
• Maintain organised digital filing in SharePoint/OneDrive.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑moving SME environment.
• Good communication skills for supplier and internal queries.
• Proactive, organised, and willing to learn.
• Confident with cloud‑based systems and spreadsheets (Excel/Sheets).

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:
Studying AAT Level 1, 2 or 3.
Basic understanding of double‑entry bookkeeping.
Competent with Excel (lookups, pivot tables, basic formulas).

Desirable:
Exposure to Xero, Navan, or other cloud accounting software.
Interest in progressing to ACCA.
Experience in an SME or multi‑entity environment.
Development & Progression
Full support for AAT progression and later ACCA (subject to performance).
Exposure to month‑end, budgeting, and system migration projects.
Clear pathway to Assistant Accountant within 18–24 months.