At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll, sales ledger, and purchase ledger in a hands-on finance role.
- Company: Join a friendly and supportive SME with a great local reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20 days holiday, free parking, and a competitive salary of £28,000 - £30,000.
- Other info: Potential for hybrid working after probation and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain diverse experience in finance while working in a close-knit team.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll and accounting software like Sage is essential.
Your new company
Our client is a successful and growing SME with a friendly, supportive culture and an excellent reputation locally. Due to continued growth, they are seeking a Payroll & Finance Assistant to join their close-knit team. This is a varied role offering exposure to payroll, sales ledger, purchase ledger and general finance duties, making it an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys a broad and hands-on position.
Your new role
You will be responsible for processing the weekly payroll, including timesheet consolidation, statutory payments, pension contributions, and HMRC submissions, as well as resolving any payroll queries, producing payroll reports and payslips. The role also involves managing purchase ledger activities such as invoice processing, supplier reconciliations, BACS payments and petty cash, alongside raising sales invoices and credit notes, allocating receipts, managing credit control, and resolving account queries.
You will maintain accurate supplier and customer records, assist with bookkeeping activities, provide telephone and email support, and support month-end processes including reconciliations, reporting and prepayments.
What you'll need to succeed
We’re looking for an organised and detail-oriented finance professional with experience across payroll, sales ledger and purchase ledger functions. The successful candidate will have a sound understanding of payroll legislation, HMRC regulations, pensions administration and statutory payments, alongside experience using Sage Payroll, Sage 50 or similar accounting software.
You will possess excellent attention to detail, strong organisational and time management skills, and the confidence to communicate effectively with employees, suppliers and customers to resolve queries. A proactive, team-focused attitude and a willingness to support colleagues and contribute across the wider finance function are also essential.
What you'll get in return
This role will be based on site 5 days a week on the west side of Bury St Edmunds with the possibility of hybrid working after your probation period, 20 days holiday plus bank holidays, free car parking, company pension scheme and a salary range of £28,000 - £30,000 depending on experience.
What you need to do now
If you’re interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn’t quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Payroll & Finance Assistant / Bookkeeper in Bury St Edmunds employer: Hays Accounts and Finance
Join a dynamic and growing SME in Bath, where you will find a supportive work culture that encourages professional development and offers flexible working options. With 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays, a health scheme, and a cycle to work initiative, this company prioritises employee well-being while providing ample opportunities for career advancement in a fast-paced environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll & Finance Assistant / Bookkeeper in Bury St Edmunds
✨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 Hays Accounts and Finance. 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 Payroll & Finance Assistant / Bookkeeper in Bury St Edmunds
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 Hays Accounts and Finance.
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 Hays Accounts and Finance'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 Hays Accounts and Finance
✨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 Hays Accounts and Finance.
✨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 Hays Accounts and Finance 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 Hays Accounts and Finance 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.
