Accounts Assistant/Bookkeeper

Location: Watlington, Oxfordshire

Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: c. £27,000 - £30,000 depending on experience

About Us

Garden Trends is a fast-growing, multi-channel retailer in the garden and leisure sector, specialising in garden furniture, barbecues, leisure accessories and Christmas and seasonal products. We operate through a strong and expanding online presence, working with a wide range of UK and international suppliers, and have a flagship retail store. As our business continues to grow, we are looking to strengthen our finance team with the addition of an Accounts Assistant / Bookkeeper.

The Role

We are looking for a reliable and organised individual to support the day-to-day financial administration of the business. This is a varied position involving bookkeeping, payroll support and general finance administration, helping to ensure our financial records are accurate, organised and up to date. Working closely with the Financial Controller, you will assist with a range of finance tasks including processing invoices, maintaining financial records, reconciling accounts and supporting the preparation of payroll. You will also help maintain positive relationships with suppliers and provide general administrative support within the finance function. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a busy retail business, developing practical bookkeeping and payroll skills while building a strong foundation for future progression within finance.

Key Responsibilities

• Bookkeeping and Financial Administration
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Processing supplier invoices, customer payments and business expenses.
• Assisting with maintaining the purchase and sales ledgers.
• Reconciling bank accounts and payment provider transactions.
• Filing and organising financial documentation.
• Supporting month-end finance processes as required.
• Payroll Support
• Assisting with the preparation and processing of payroll.
• Maintaining employee payroll records and ensuring information is accurate and up to date.
• Supporting the administration of pensions and other payroll-related records.
• Liaising with colleagues regarding payroll information where required, while maintaining confidentiality.
• Supplier and Finance Support
• Assisting with supplier payment runs.
• Responding to finance-related emails and supplier queries in a professional and timely manner.
• Helping resolve invoice queries and maintaining accurate supplier records.
• Supporting the Senior Leadership Team with finance-related administrative tasks.
• General Office Support
• Assisting with general office activities and ad hoc administrative tasks as required.
• Supporting improvements to finance processes and helping maintain organised systems and records.

Key Skills

• Good numerical skills and attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Good IT skills, including confidence using Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Experience using accounting software would be beneficial but is not essential, as training can be provided.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage workload effectively.

Personal Attributes

• A professional, positive and trustworthy approach, with the ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• A high level of attention to detail with a careful and accurate approach to work.
• A positive attitude and willingness to learn and develop new skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Reliable, organised and keen to support colleagues across the business.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a finance environment.
• A varied role offering exposure to bookkeeping, payroll and business finance.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and progress within the business.

Benefits

• Rural office location with free on-site parking.
• Rest area with complimentary tea and coffee.
• On-site independent café.
• Company pension scheme.
• Friendly, close-knit team environment.