Bookkeeper and Accounts Assistant

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” – C.S. Lewis

Sheridan Maine is seeking a detail-oriented Bookkeeper and Accounts Assistant to support the day-to-day financial operations of a growing accountancy practice in Essex. This dual-role position is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in bookkeeping, who is also eager to gain broader experience across accounts payable, receivable, reconciliations, and reporting.

The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting month-end processes, and ensuring the smooth running of the finance function.

Key Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records using accounting software.
• Process accounts payable and receivable, including invoice entry, payment runs, and customer receipts.
• Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards, and other balance sheet items.
• Assist in preparing monthly management accounts and financial reports.
• Monitor and chase outstanding debts in a timely and professional manner.
• Maintain the fixed asset register and assist with depreciation calculations.
• Provide support with payroll processing and employee expense claims.
• Assist in year-end accounts preparation and liaise with external accountants or auditors.
• Respond to finance queries from suppliers, customers, and internal departments.
• Support the wider finance team with ad hoc administrative and project work.

Key Skills and Experience:

• Proven experience in a bookkeeping and/or finance assistant role.
• Strong working knowledge of accounting software.
• Solid understanding of double-entry bookkeeping principles.
• Confident with Excel.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines.

Qualifications:

• AAT qualified or currently studying (or equivalent experience).
• Further study support (e.g. AAT, ACCA, CIMA) may be offered for the right candidate.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in any UK accounting role.

What We Offer:

• A supportive and collaborative finance team.
• Opportunities for training and career progression.
• Flexible working (subject to company policy).
• Pension scheme, holiday entitlement, and other company benefits.

If you're ready to take on a new challenge and make a difference in a leading organisation, we want to hear from you! Please click on “apply” as soon as possible.

You are required to be eligible to work in the UK full time without restriction.

Due to the high volume of applications, we receive, it is not always possible to respond to unsuccessful applicants. Therefore, if we have not responded to your application within five days, please assume that on this occasion your application has not been successful.