Accounts Assistant - Practice

Accounts Assistant

Huddersfield

Competitive Salary + Benefits

About the Company

W Talent Finance is a specialist recruitment partner dedicated to placing high-calibre accounting professionals across both practice and commerce & industry markets worldwide. With a deep understanding of the finance landscape, we support clients ranging from leading professional services firms to established regional practices and multi-service professional groups, delivering tailored talent solutions that drive business performance.

We are partnering with a well-established, multi-service accountancy and professional services firm with a strong regional presence and an excellent reputation for delivering trusted advice to businesses and individuals.

With over 220 employees across 11 offices throughout Yorkshire and Derbyshire, the business provides a comprehensive range of professional services, including accountancy, financial services, corporate finance and wider business advisory support.

The organisation promotes a people-focused environment built around collaboration, professionalism and integrity. It places strong emphasis on creating a supportive and inclusive culture where individuals are encouraged to develop their skills, take ownership of their work and progress within an established and approachable team.

The Role

As an Accounts Assistant, you will join an established accountancy practice, providing a combination of accounting and administrative support to the wider accounts team.

You will assist with the preparation of annual accounts, bookkeeping, VAT returns, bank reconciliations and other accounting duties, gaining exposure to a broad range of services provided to the firm's clients. Alongside your day-to-day responsibilities, you will have the opportunity to develop your technical knowledge and practical experience while working towards an AAT apprenticeship.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career within accountancy, develop a strong foundation of accounting skills and gain valuable experience within a reputable professional services environment. The role offers structured learning, professional study support and the opportunity to develop under the guidance of experienced colleagues.

Key Responsibilities

Assist with the preparation of annual accounts for a varied client base
Undertake bookkeeping duties, ensuring financial records are accurate and up to date
Assist with the preparation of VAT returns and supporting documentation
Complete bank reconciliations and investigate discrepancies where required
Support the accounts team with a range of accounting functions and financial reporting activities
Develop an understanding of the processes involved in preparing a full set of financial accounts
Provide administrative support to colleagues, supervisors and managers across the practice
Follow instructions from supervisors and managers, seeking guidance where necessary
Maintain accurate financial records and ensure client information is handled confidentially
Assist with the organisation, filing, archiving and maintenance of client documentation
Manage incoming and outgoing post and provide general office administration support
Answer incoming telephone calls professionally and direct enquiries to the appropriate colleagues
Respond to colleagues and clients in a courteous and professional manner
Follow relevant policies, procedures and money laundering regulations
Participate in training and development activities, including working towards the AAT apprenticeship
Support the wider team in meeting client deadlines and achieving business objectives
Undertake additional accounting and administrative duties as required

About You

An interest in accountancy and a genuine desire to build a career within an accountancy practice
Studying towards AAT, or keen to undertake an AAT apprenticeship
Previous experience in an accounts or administrative role would be advantageous but is not essential, depending on the candidate's overall suitability
Strong numerical skills with excellent attention to detail
Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise competing tasks
Excellent time management skills and a willingness to learn
Strong written and verbal communication skills
A professional and confident telephone manner
Good IT skills, with the ability to learn accounting software and other systems
Strong record-keeping skills and a methodical approach to work
The ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the guidance of experienced colleagues
A proactive attitude with a willingness to take responsibility and develop new skills
The ability to handle confidential financial and client information appropriately
A professional, courteous and team-focused approach
Commitment to ongoing learning, professional development and completing relevant training

What's on Offer

Competitive salary, dependent on experience
25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase up to 5 additional days
Pension scheme
Health Cash Plan (Level 1)
Life assurance at 4x salary
Eye test support
AAT apprenticeship and professional study support
Ongoing training, development and opportunities to build a career within accountancy
Social events and staff engagement activities
Volunteering opportunities
Staff discounts on wills, lasting powers of attorney and residential mortgages
Supportive and collaborative working environment
Opportunity to gain hands-on experience across a broad range of accounting services
The chance to learn from experienced accounting professionals and develop long-term career prospects