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