Assistant Accountant/Accountant

Salary £30-£35K

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Assistant Accountant/Accountant to join its team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful work in the charity sector while ensuring the smooth operation of financial processes. The position is full-time (35 hours per week) with a salary of circa £35,000 and is based in Leicester, with hybrid working arrangements considered.

As an Assistant Accountant/Accountant, you will play a pivotal role in managing financial operations and supporting strategic decision-making. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Managing and maintaining financial systems, including Sage.
• Preparing monthly management accounts and additional reports for senior management.
• Monitoring progress against budgets, forecasts, and other financial targets.
• Preparing financial reports for the Council of Trustees.
• Processing income, expenditure, invoices, and monthly bank reconciliations.
• Overseeing the annual budgeting process and supporting budget holders with forecasting and financial planning.
• Ensuring compliance with charity, financial, and tax regulations.
• Collaborating with external auditors and preparing for the annual audit and year-end accounts.
• Administering restricted funds, grants, and project budgets, including funder reporting.
• Supporting junior finance staff and contributing to the improvement of financial processes.

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and skills:

• AAT qualified or part-qualified ACCA/CIMA, or equivalent finance qualification.
• Proven experience in a similar finance role, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero, or similar).
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Advanced Excel skills and the ability to analyse and present financial data effectively.
• Understanding of charity finance, including restricted and unrestricted funds an advantage but not essential.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues.
• Commitment to the values and mission of the organization.

• Experience in financial reporting for externally funded projects (e.g., National Lottery Heritage Fund).
• Knowledge of SORP and charity accounting standards is desirable.

On a typical day, you will:

• Process financial transactions and maintain accurate records.
• Prepare and analyse financial reports to support decision-making.
• Collaborate with team members to monitor budgets and forecasts.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and best practices.
• Provide guidance and support to junior finance staff.
• Contribute to the development of efficient financial processes.

We offer a supportive and flexible working environment, along with the following benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements, including potential hybrid working.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time).
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• The opportunity to use your financial expertise to make a positive impact.