Finance Accountant

Finance Accountant

Full-Time 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Aston Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support daily financial operations and maintain accurate financial records.
  • Company: Join Aston Group, a family-run business with over 60 years of excellence.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 24 days holiday, pension scheme, and health cash plan.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace that values personal growth and teamwork.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while growing your skills in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: AAT qualified or studying towards ACCA, CIMA, or ACA.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

  • Finance Accountant, Aston Group Head Office
  • Employment Type
  • Full Time, Permanent
  • Application Start Date
  • 05-08-2026
  • Application End Date
  • 31-08-2026
  • Location
  • Aston Group Head Office
  • State/County
  • RM1 2PT
  • Work Style
  • Hybrid
  • Description
  • Job Purpose and Key Responsibilities

The Finance Accountant is responsible for supporting the day-to-day financial operations of the business, ensuring the accurate processing and maintenance of financial records, compliance with statutory requirements, and the timely production of financial information.

The role supports effective cash flow management, financial reporting, and contract performance by maintaining robust financial controls and providing high-quality support to internal stakeholders.

  • Set up new customer accounts on Sage, ensuring accurate account information and agreed payment terms are maintained.
  • Raise sales invoice promptly and accurately based on instructions received from the Quantity Surveyor.
  • Support the credit control process by monitoring outstanding debts, contacting overdue customers on a monthly basis, and recording all collection activity and customer responses within Sage.
  • Liaise with Contract Managers to identify outstanding applications and follow up with customers regarding outstanding payments.
  • Monitor retention balances and proactively chase payments as they become due.
  • Set up supplier accounts on Sage, ensuring correct payment terms and supplier information are maintained.
  • Process supplier invoices accurately, coding them to the correct contracts, cost centres and departments.
  • Track invoices through the approval process, ensuring all invoices receive appropriate authorisation before payment.
  • Carry out regular checks to identify and prevent duplicate invoice processing.
  • Prepare BACS payment schedules for review and authorisation by the Head of Finance.
  • Reconcile supplier statements, investigate discrepancies and resolve outstanding issues.
  • Ensure invoices relating to direct debits are obtained, accurately coded and posted to Sage.
  • Cash & Bank Management
  • Allocate customer and supplier payments accurately.
  • Prepare monthly bank reconciliations for all company bank accounts within Sage.
  • Investigate and resolve any reconciliation differences promptly.
  • CIS Administration
  • Verify the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS) status of subcontractors and maintain accurate records.
  • Prepare and submit monthly CIS returns to HMRC.
  • Produce and distribute monthly CIS deduction statements to subcontractors.
  • VAT & Statutory Compliance
  • Reconcile VAT accounts and investigate discrepancies before VAT submissions.
  • Prepare VAT returns for approval by the Head of Finance and submit them online.
  • Maintain supporting documentation and reports for audit and year-end purposes.
  • Ensure compliance with HMRC and other statutory reporting requirements.
  • Produce monthly contract cost reports for Contract Managers.

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts, including

  • Prepayments
  • Accruals
  • Fixed asset reconciliations
  • Prepare and review trial balances as required.
  • Maintain the integrity of the general ledger through regular review of postings and correction of discrepancies.
  • Audit & Financial Controls
  • Liaise with external auditors and provide requested financial information and supporting documentation and financial reports.
  • Maintain accurate, organised electronic and paper financial records.
  • Ensure all financial processes comply with company policies, procedures and internal financial controls.
  • General Responsibilities
  • Maintain a high standard of customer service for both internal and external stakeholders.
  • Build effective working relationships with colleagues, Contract Managers, suppliers, customers and external organisations.
  • Support continuous improvementwithin the finance function by identifying opportunities to improve processes and controls.
  • Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as reasonably requested by the Head of Finance.

Qualifications

  • AAT qualified or studying towards ACCA, CIMA or ACA (or equivalent).
  • GCSE (or equivalent) in Mathematics and English (Grade C/4 or above)

Skills & Experience

  • Previous experience in a finance or accounting role.
  • Experience of purchase ledger, sales ledger and bank reconciliations.
  • Experience preparing VAT returns and CIS returns.
  • Knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping principles.
  • Experience usings Sage accounting software.
  • Good understanding of financial controls and accounting procedures.
  • Experience supporting month-end reporting processes.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
  • Ability to investigate and resolve financial discrepancies.
  • Personal Growth

Able to show adaptability and take advantage of new ways of doing things in addition to managing own personal learning and development.

Concern for Accuracy

Acting to minimise errors and inaccuracies, maintaining high standards of accuracy and correctness in dealing with information and data.

Adopting an orderly and precise approach to work paying careful attention to following procedures and ways of working.

Problem Solving

The ability to analyse in a logical way and identify patterns and connections which are not immediately obvious.

The ability to sift out the essential elements from a mass of complex information and integrate and synthesize ideas and information into a coherent whole.

Planning & Organising

Ensuring the successful achievement of results through the effective planning and management of resources, which are in line with the organisation’s strategic direction.

The ability to think through and adopt a clear, sensible step by step approach to planning and organising work making effective use of time, resources in order to get the job done as effectively as possible.

Team Working

Working collaboratively and sharing information within and across Aston Group to contribute to the effective delivery of services.

Building and maintaining good working relationships with colleagues to foster team spirit, commitment to the team and achievement of shared goals.

Client Service

Focus on discovering and acting on the client’s needs. A commitment to putting the client first. Clients may include ‘internal’ staff and external clients.

About Aston Group

We are an established, family run, privately owned, business that has been setting standards for efficiency, innovation and quality for over 60 years.

We are passionate about providing an excellent service to our clients and stakeholders and pride ourselves on our quality of works and industry reputation.

Our values are at the heart of everything we do; building trust, driving quality, delivering togetherandhaving respect.

We take pride in our colleagues, supporting their hard work and dedication, enabling us to thrive as a team.

You don’t need to tick all the boxes! We invest heavily in learning and development to bridge any gaps.

Our commitment to building and maintaining a diverse, inclusive, and representative workforce is a priority.

We encourage applications from people from all backgrounds and welcome you to join a team that celebrates individual cultures and identities.

If you have any accessibility needs that require any extra attention, please let us know.

  • 24 days holiday per year increasing with length of service, and the usual Bank Holidays
  • Pension with 4% salary sacrifice scheme and employer contribution
  • Death in Service benefit of 4x salary
  • Enhanced Family Friendly Policies
  • Long Service Awards
  • Health Cash Plan
  • Employee Assistance Programme
  • Ride to Work Scheme
  • #J-18808-Ljbffr

Finance Accountant employer: Aston Group

Aston Group is an exceptional employer that values its employees and fosters a supportive work culture, offering a hybrid work style that promotes work-life balance. With a strong commitment to personal growth and development, the company provides extensive learning opportunities and encourages diversity and inclusion within its workforce. Employees enjoy generous benefits, including 24 days of holiday, a pension scheme, and enhanced family-friendly policies, making it a rewarding place to build a career in finance.

Aston Group

Contact Details:

Aston Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Finance Accountant

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Aston Group. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Finance Accountant

Sage Accounting Software
Financial Reporting
Cash Flow Management
VAT Returns Preparation
CIS Returns Preparation
Bank Reconciliations
Double-Entry Bookkeeping

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Aston Group.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Aston Group's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Aston Group

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Aston Group.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at Aston Group will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former Aston Group employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.