At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll and accounts for diverse clients in a hybrid role.
- Company: Reputable accountancy practice with over 70 years of experience.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth in a dynamic, client-focused setting.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in payroll and accounts while working with modern cloud solutions.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years' experience in payroll/accounts and strong attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 € per year.
Location: Belfast
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive (DOE)
About the Company
Our client is one of Northern Ireland's most established and respected accountancy practices, with over 70 years' experience supporting SMEs, owner-managed businesses, and growing companies across a range of sectors. With a strong focus on cloud accounting and modern finance solutions, the firm provides a full suite of services including payroll, VAT, tax planning, audit, and business advisory. This role offers the opportunity to join a professional, client-focused team and gain exposure to a wide portfolio of businesses.
The Role
This is a hybrid payroll and accounts preparation role, with approximately 60% payroll and 40% accounts/VAT responsibilities. You will be responsible for managing multiple client payrolls on a weekly basis, alongside supporting the accounts team with VAT returns and general accounts preparation. This role would suit someone coming from a practice or bureau environment, or a strong payroll professional looking to broaden into accounts.
Key Responsibilities
- Payroll (60%)
- Processing multiple weekly payrolls for a portfolio of clients
- Managing starters, leavers, and statutory payments (SSP, SMP etc.)
- Ensuring full PAYE compliance and accurate submissions
- Working with BrightPay payroll software
- Handling payroll queries from clients in a professional and timely manner
- Supporting with payroll reporting and reconciliations
- Accounts Preparation (40%)
- Assisting with accounts preparation for a range of clients (sole traders, partnerships, limited companies)
- Preparing and submitting VAT returns
- Supporting with bookkeeping and financial data processing
- Working with a variety of cloud accounting systems (e.g. Xero, Sage, QuickBooks)
- Ensuring accurate and timely financial records
Essential Criteria
- Minimum 2 years' experience in payroll and/or accounts
- Experience processing multiple payrolls (ideally multi-client)
- Strong attention to detail and ability to meet strict deadlines
- Confident communicator, comfortable dealing with clients
Desirable Criteria
- Experience using BrightPay
- Previous experience within an accountancy practice or payroll bureau
- Knowledge of VAT returns and accounts preparation
- Exposure to cloud accounting software (Xero, Sage, QuickBooks etc.)
Why Apply?
- Join a well-established and reputable accountancy practice
- Work across a diverse client portfolio
- Gain exposure to both payroll and accounts (great for development)
- Opportunity to develop within a modern, cloud-focused environment
- Supportive team with strong technical expertise
Payroll & Accounts Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast employer: Ashton Recruitment
As one of Northern Ireland's most established accountancy practices, our client offers a dynamic and supportive work environment in Belfast, where employees can thrive in a hybrid role that combines payroll and accounts responsibilities. With over 70 years of experience, the firm prioritises employee growth through exposure to a diverse client portfolio and modern cloud accounting solutions, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional development. Joining this reputable team means being part of a forward-thinking organisation that values its people and their contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll & Accounts Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and practising common questions. Make sure you can talk about your experience with payroll and accounts confidently, as well as how you can contribute to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply and wait! Follow up on your applications after a week or so. A quick email can show your enthusiasm and keep you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great way to ask if they need any more info from you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance of landing that role! We’re always looking for talented individuals like you, and applying directly can help us see your application faster.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll & Accounts Assistant JBLE1_NI in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Payroll & Accounts Assistant role. Highlight your experience in payroll processing and accounts preparation, and don’t forget to mention any relevant software skills like BrightPay or cloud accounting systems.
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 role. Mention your passion for client-focused work and how your background aligns with the company’s values and services.
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:In the world of payroll and accounts, attention to detail is key. Use specific examples in your application to demonstrate how you've successfully managed multiple payrolls or ensured compliance in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashton Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your payroll and accounts knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss your experience with processing payrolls, handling VAT returns, and using accounting software like BrightPay, Xero, or Sage. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but can also dive into specifics.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Payroll & Accounts Assistant, you'll be dealing with clients regularly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients in the past, especially when resolving queries or explaining complex information. This will demonstrate your confidence and professionalism.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
In this role, accuracy is key. Bring along examples of how you've ensured compliance and accuracy in your previous roles. Whether it’s through meticulous record-keeping or double-checking submissions, showing that you value precision will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s approach to cloud accounting and how they support their clients. This not only shows your interest in the role but also gives you a chance to assess if the company aligns with your career goals and values.
