Assistant Accountant - Farming/ Agricultural Industry

Your new company Hays are delighted to be partnering exclusively with a well-established and diverse agricultural business to recruit an Assistant Accountant. Operating across farming, land management and a range of enterprises, this organisation plays a significant role within the local rural economy and is committed to sustainable farming, operational excellence and long-term stewardship of its land and assets. This is a unique opportunity to join a close-knit team where no two days are the same. The office is a busy and collaborative environment, providing support across farming operations, property interests and wider commercial activities. You'll work closely with the Finance Director and gain valuable exposure to both the financial and operational aspects of a modern agricultural business.

Your new role As an Assistant Accountant, you will play a key role in supporting the Finance Director with the day-to-day financial management of the business. Working closely with both finance and operational teams, you will ensure accurate financial reporting, maintain robust accounting processes and provide administrative support where required.

• Assisting with monthly management accounts, budgets and cash flow forecasts.
• Processing invoices, journals and maintaining accurate financial records.
• Reconciling accounts and stock records.
• Supporting VAT returns and year-end processes.
• Monitoring farming-related costs including labour, machinery and crop expenditure.
• Assisting with budgeting, cost control and performance reporting.
• Maintaining records relating to grants, subsidies and compliance requirements.
• Supporting payroll administration and employee records.
• Providing general office and administrative support across the business.

This role offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to both finance and operations within a successful agricultural business while working closely with senior leadership.

What you'll need to succeed To be successful in this role, you will have previous experience within a finance, accounts or bookkeeping position and be comfortable working in a varied role that combines both accounting and administration responsibilities. You will also possess:

• Strong bookkeeping and accounts administration experience.
• Ideally exposure to management accounting processes such as budgeting, forecasting or month-end reporting.
• Experience using accounting software.
• Strong Excel skills and good attention to detail.
• The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• A proactive and self-motivated approach to work.
• The ability to work collaboratively within a small team environment.
• Experience within agriculture, farming, rural estates or land-based businesses would be highly advantageous. However, applications are welcomed from candidates outside the sector who can demonstrate a genuine interest in agriculture and a desire to learn.

Desirable qualifications include:

• AAT Level 3 or Level 4 qualification desirable but not essential.
• Or studying towards ACCA, CIMA or a similar professional qualification is desirable but not essential.

What you'll get in return Opportunity to work within a reputable and diverse agricultural business. Exposure to a broad and varied role combining finance, administration and operational support. Direct mentorship and support from an experienced Finance Director. A collaborative and friendly working environment. The chance to develop specialist knowledge within the agricultural and rural sector. Full-time, permanent opportunity. Competitive salary and benefits package and study support for AAT/ CIMA/ ACCA (if desired).

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.