Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchase ledger, employee expenses, and accounts receivable processes in a dynamic finance team.
- Company: Join a well-known global pharmaceutical company with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make an impact in finance while working in a structured and fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in purchase ledger and strong VAT knowledge required.
- Other info: Flexible role with a focus on teamwork and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 14 - 17 £ per hour.
Senior Finance Assistant (Temporary - 3 Months), Reading
Rate: £17-£20ph + holiday pay
Location: Hybrid working - 3 days office-based, remaining days working from home.
Our well-known, global pharmaceutical client is seeking an experienced Senior Finance Assistant to join their Finance team, initially on a 3-month temporary basis, to be based in the heart of their UK finance team, in Reading. This role is ideal for a proactive finance professional who enjoys working in a structured, regulated environment and can quickly step in to support core finance operations.
You will play a key role in keeping our purchase ledger, employee expenses, and accounts receivable processes running smoothly, while collaborating closely with colleagues across the business.
What you will be doing as their Interim Senior Finance Assistant:
- Purchase Ledger & Payments
- Take full ownership of the purchase ledger process
- Process invoices, credit notes, field force payment forms, and cheque requisitions
- Ensure all transactions comply with various guidelines
- Confirm invoices are correctly coded, approved within limits, and VAT recorded accurately
- Process manual and direct debit invoices and payments
- Reconcile third-party statements to ensure all invoices are received
- Employee Expenses
- Manage monthly employee expenses from system upload through to final payment
- Check receipts, VAT, approvals, and correct errors where needed
- Obtain re-approvals when required and keep employees informed of updates or changes
- Accounts Receivable Cover
- Provide full cover for Accounts Receivable during absences and holidays
- Work in line with internal processes and requirements
- Stakeholder Support & Reporting
- Produce ad-hoc reports as requested by managers or internal teams
- Liaise with external suppliers and internal stakeholders regarding building and office equipment, leased services, and quotes
- New Starter Support
- Ensuring all new starters are added to the relevant systems and expenses systems accordingly
What our client is looking for, from this interim Senior Finance Assistant:
- Proven purchase ledger experience, including strong VAT knowledge
- Previous SAP experience highly desirable
- Confident user of Microsoft Office applications
- Accurate, organised, and able to work in a structured way
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- A self-motivated team player who can hit the ground running
Personal Attributes:
- Comfortable working with minimal supervision
- Flexible and happy to support other team members when needed
- Thrives in a changing, fast-paced environment
This is a superb opportunity to join a growing, well-respected organisation as their interim Senior Finance Assistant, based in their central Reading Office. Please do get in touch for further details. My client is seeking an urgent start for this role.
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.
By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Gleeson Recruitment Limited. Our Privacy Policy is available on our website and explains how we will use your data.
Senior Accounts Assistant in Reading employer: Gleeson Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Gleeson Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Accounts Assistant in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know about opportunities at our client. A personal recommendation can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your purchase ledger and VAT knowledge. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences with SAP and how you’ve handled similar tasks in past roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your communication skills! During interviews, be clear and concise when explaining your thought process. This will demonstrate your ability to work well with colleagues and stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Accounts Assistant in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Finance Assistant role. Highlight your purchase ledger experience and any relevant SAP knowledge. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
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 strong communication skills and how you thrive in fast-paced environments, just like we do at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage employee expenses and accounts receivable. We love seeing real-life applications of your skills!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gleeson Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your purchase ledger and VAT knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've managed these processes in previous roles, as this will show your expertise and confidence in handling the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Familiarise with SAP
If you have experience with SAP, make sure to highlight it during the interview. If not, do a bit of research on its functionalities related to finance operations. Being able to speak about how you would use SAP in this role can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with various stakeholders, prepare to demonstrate your strong communication skills. Think of examples where you've effectively communicated complex information or resolved issues with colleagues or suppliers.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you handle challenges in a fast-paced environment. Prepare scenarios where you've had to adapt quickly or support team members, as this aligns with the personal attributes the company is looking for.
