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- Tasks: Support financial reporting and assist in driving performance measurement for Cognito UK.
- Company: Join a dynamic agency with a fast-paced environment and growth opportunities.
- Benefits: Initial six-month contract with potential for permanence, plus career development.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with international colleagues and strong support from management.
- Why this job: Perfect for finance enthusiasts eager to make an impact and grow their skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting; experience in finance roles preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for an Assistant Finance Manager to join our team on an initial six-month contract, with the potential for the role to become permanent. As an Assistant Finance Manager, you will work closely with the Cognito UK finance and leadership teams to support accurate financial reporting for the UK. This role will assist in driving a performance measurement culture to help grow Cognito UK's revenue and margin, and provides an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to develop their career in a fast‑paced agency environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in maintaining prime records of accounting for the UK
- Support the preparation of monthly management accounts, regional and main board packs
- Assist with month‑end and year‑end closes and journal entries, including reconciliation of balance sheet accounts, in conjunction with the wider finance team
- Support the drafting, review and processing of monthly UK payroll, including PAYE and pension administration
- Prepare and send client invoices and support inter‑company invoicing
- Assist with UK accounts receivable responsibilities, including following up on collection of receivables
- Support the analysis and optimisation of WIP balances, revenue and production billings and intercompany revenue transfers
- Assist with quarterly/annual statutory accounting and taxation reporting (including but not limited to audits, annual returns, VAT and corporation tax)
Commercial Finance
- Support the drafting and review of Statements of Work and client agreements
- Maintain client and job codes in Cognito's financial system
- Assist with analyses on staff utilisation and client profitability
Skills and Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
- Demonstrable experience in a finance or accounting role
- Agency or professional services experience preferred but not required
- Part‑qualified (AAT, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) desirable
- A solid foundation in financial and accounting principles
- Strong numerical and analytical skills, with the ability to present data clearly and concisely
- A working understanding of UK compliance requirements, including HMRC, VAT and basic employment tax
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to manage and prioritise tasks effectively
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- An ethical business mentality
- A collaborative team player with enthusiasm, motivation and commitment
- Eagerness to learn and develop within the role
Organizational Relationships
- Work as an integral part of the finance team in both the local office and with international colleagues as necessary
- Support UK management and the UK MD on financial matters
- Collaborate with senior account leads on client and contract‑related issues as directed
Assistant Finance Manager employer: Cognito
Contact Detail:
Cognito Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Finance Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who work in agencies. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common finance questions and scenarios. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to get comfortable discussing your skills and experiences related to financial reporting and analysis.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles. Bring examples of how you’ve optimised processes or improved financial outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Finance Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Finance Manager role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your financial reporting expertise and analytical skills. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about finance and how your background makes you a great fit for us. Don’t forget to mention your eagerness to learn and develop within the role.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements rather than just duties. For example, if you've improved financial processes or contributed to successful audits, let us know! Numbers and results speak volumes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognito
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss key concepts like balance sheets, payroll processes, and VAT. Being able to confidently explain these topics will show that you have a solid foundation in finance, which is crucial for the Assistant Finance Manager role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare examples of how you've used your analytical skills in previous roles. Whether it's optimising WIP balances or analysing client profitability, having specific instances ready will demonstrate your ability to contribute to Cognito UK's performance measurement culture.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Research Cognito UK and its values. Understanding their approach to finance and how they operate as an agency will help you align your answers with their expectations. This shows that you're not just interested in the role, but also in being part of their team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company. Inquire about their financial reporting processes or how they measure success within the finance team. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company is the right fit for you.