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- Tasks: Manage financial records, perform reconciliations, and oversee payment processes.
- Company: Independent recruitment specialist with a focus on diverse industries.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for hybrid work, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the finance sector.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume Purchase Ledger and proficiency in Excel required.
- Other info: 12-18 month fixed-term contract with excellent career growth potential.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Finance Accountant based in Bedford for one of our clients on a fixed-term contract basis.
Make your application after reading the following skill and qualification requirements for this position.
Summary of the Finance Accountant role
Salary: £35,000 – 40,000 per annum
Location: Bedford
Type of Contract: 12-18 month fixed-term contract
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 5:00pm, Friday 8:30am – 5:00pm, possibly some hybrid after probation
Responsibilities of the Finance Accountant
Perform month-end and year-end.
Reconciliations.
Balance control accounts.
Purchase ledger.
Input and process invoices and expense claims into the system.
Conduct monthly payment runs.
Benchmarking and analysis.
Maintain the fixed asset register.
Prepare quarterly VAT and gift aid returns.
Requirements for a successful Finance Accountant
Extensive experience dealing with high-volume Purchase Ledger.
Experience of overseeing payment runs, utility invoicing and VAT legislation reporting requirements.
Experience doing VAT is essential, ideally within charity /education.
Accountancy qualification – ACA/ACCA/CIMA preferred.
Previous Finance experience within the Education sector preferred.
Systems report writing experience.
Proficiency in Excel and reporting tools.
Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Allstaff Recruitment is an Independent Recruitment Specialist based in Bedfordshire who works on behalf of companies across Bedford, Milton Keynes and surrounds to fill their vacancies and meet their recruitment needs. We place candidates in permanent, temporary and contract roles across a number of industry sectors.
Check out our website and
Finance Accountant employer: Allstaff
Contact Detail:
Allstaff Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in education or charity. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your VAT knowledge and accounting principles. We recommend practising common interview questions related to month-end processes and reconciliations so you can showcase your expertise confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to tailor your approach! When applying through our website, make sure your CV highlights your experience with high-volume purchase ledgers and payment runs. Show us how your skills match the job description perfectly!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in the interviewer’s mind. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for the Finance Accountant position.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with high-volume Purchase Ledger and VAT reporting. We want to see how your skills match the requirements for the Finance Accountant role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this position. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of the role, so let your personality come through while keeping it professional.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in Excel and any systems report writing experience you have. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so highlight any tools or software you’re familiar with that relate to the job.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Allstaff
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around VAT legislation and purchase ledger processes. Be ready to discuss your experience with high-volume transactions and how you've managed month-end and year-end reconciliations.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your proficiency in Excel and any reporting tools you've used. Think of specific instances where your skills made a difference, like improving efficiency in payment runs or maintaining the fixed asset register.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since excellent communication is key, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will show that you can convey important information effectively, which is crucial in a finance role.
✨Research the Company
Familiarise yourself with the client’s mission and values, especially if they operate within the education sector. Understanding their goals will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
