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- Tasks: Support financial processes, including VAT returns and account reconciliations.
- Company: Join DSL, a prestigious school network with a focus on German language and culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous holidays, free parking, and an on-site cafeteria with great food.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in finance while working in a beautiful environment with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: 5 years of experience in accounting, strong Sage and Excel skills required.
- Other info: Immediate start available; applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Financial Accountant – fixed term / immediate start (ca. 30h / week)
Company Description
The DSL is part of a long-standing tradition of excellence in the world-wide networks of more than 136 schools abroad. All are independent schools accredited and supported by the Federal Republic of Germany. DSL offers an appealing and challenging educational programme from \’Kindergarten\’ to Abitur with a specific emphasis on German language and culture.
The School has an Administration department of 20 staff and the Financial Accountant supports the Financial Controller.
Position
The Financial Accountant position, offering part-time to full-time (approx. 30 hours per week), will be covering short term sabbatical leave for an initial fixed term period of 6 – 9 months. This position has potential to be extended. This role will assist with month end processes, VAT returns, reconciliations, general accounting support and year end audit work.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation of VAT returns and other tax-related filings, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
- All aspects of Suppliers ledger control – Checking invoices for correct approvals, liaising with budget holders, paying suppliers £ and € and posting relevant transactions into SAGE.
- All aspects of Customers ledger control – Liaising with school registrar for new starters & leavers, invoice posting, correspondence with customers, advising on payment plans and controlling those agreed with Financial controller.
- Overseeing the staff expenses process.
- Perform account reconciliations, Supplier, Customer and Bank, to ensure the accuracy of financial data.
- Liaising internally regarding school trips, afternoon sessions, supplementary school activities in order to raise invoices through Sage to reconcile back to activities cost.
- Liaise with credit card holders regarding their statements, provision of support in order to ensure correct coding for posting.
- Manage the security deposit portfolio for receipts and refunds.
- Support when and where required in the management of general ledgers, ensuring all transactions are recorded accurately.
- Provide support during year-end external audits, preparing necessary documentation and financial schedules as required.
- Assist in the posting of journals and accruals, to ensure timely and accurate reporting.
- Assist in financial reporting and analyses to support decision-making.
- Ensure all accounting processes adhere to company policies and regulatory requirements.
- Provide ad-hoc support to the finance team, Identify and suggest improvements.
- Willingness to help improve accounting systems and processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
Requirements
Profile
The successful Financial Accountant will be/have:
- At least 5 years experience in the above, with strong Dr and Cr understanding.
- Ability to \’hit the ground running\’.
- Part-qualified or QBE.
- Strong experience using Sage Line 50 and Excel is necessary.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proven fixed contract experience is desirable.
- Available asap.
Other information
What\’s on Offer
- Generous, pro-rata holidays
- Free on-site parking
- On-site Cafeteria with high quality food options for excellent value
- Beautiful working environment
- Cycle to work scheme
To apply please upload your application including CV and Covering Letter to the DSL website, including details of how you meet each of the essential criteria listed on the person specification.
Interviews will be held on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date.
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
The DSL welcomes applications from all applicants who meet the requirements for the position, however we are especially keen to receive applications from those in minority groups for which the School is currently underrepresented. We celebrate diversity and thrive on the benefits it brings.
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Financial Accountant - fixed term / immediate start (ca. 30h / week) employer: German School Association Ltd
Contact Detail:
German School Association Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Accountant - fixed term / immediate start (ca. 30h / week)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sage Line 50, as it's a key tool for this role. Consider taking a quick online course or tutorial to brush up on your skills, especially if you haven't used it recently.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with month-end processes and VAT returns in conversations. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed these tasks in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to 'hit the ground running' by thinking of ways you can quickly contribute to the team. Have a few ideas ready about how you could improve existing accounting processes.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the position is part-time and immediate, be flexible with your availability for interviews. Showing that you're ready to start as soon as possible can make you a more attractive candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Accountant - fixed term / immediate start (ca. 30h / week)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in financial accounting, particularly with VAT returns, ledger control, and using Sage Line 50. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your background aligns with the requirements listed in the job description. Mention your ability to 'hit the ground running' and your experience with financial reporting and analyses.
Highlight Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this role, provide examples in your application that showcase your ability to liaise effectively with various stakeholders.
Show Enthusiasm for the Role: Express your eagerness to contribute to the finance team and improve accounting systems. This can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to the position.
How to prepare for a job interview at German School Association Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate a strong understanding of financial principles. Brush up on your knowledge of Dr and Cr concepts, VAT regulations, and reconciliation processes. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Sage Line 50
Since strong experience using Sage Line 50 is necessary for this role, make sure you are comfortable navigating the software. If possible, practice using it before the interview so you can confidently discuss how you've used it in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle real-life accounting scenarios. Think of situations where you improved processes or resolved discrepancies, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Show Your Communication Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for this position. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated with colleagues, suppliers, and customers in the past. Consider sharing examples of how you’ve handled difficult conversations or provided support to team members.
