Bookkeeper (Xero)

The Bookkeeper will maintain accurate accounting records and ensure timely processing of sales and purchase transactions. You will take ownership of VAT returns, manage the credit control process, prepare payment runs, and complete bank postings and reconciliations. The role requires strong attention to detail, confidence using Xero, and the ability to work to deadlines.

Key responsibilities

• Process customer (sales) invoices and credit notes; ensure correct coding, VAT treatment and supporting documentation.
• Process supplier (purchase) invoices, employee and student expenses and credit notes; match to purchase orders/receipts where applicable and resolve queries promptly.
• Maintain Xero ledger hygiene: set up and maintain contacts, nominal codes and tracking categories as required.
• Prepare, review and submit VAT returns; ensure compliance with HMRC requirements and maintain audit‑ready VAT records.
• Carry out credit control activities: monitor aged debt, issue statements and reminders, and elevate overdue accounts in line with procedure.
• Prepare supplier payment runs, obtain approvals, and remittance advice distribution.
• Post bank transactions and perform regular bank reconciliations; investigate and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Reconcile key balance sheet accounts (e.g., VAT control, trade debtors/creditors, clearing accounts) and support month‑end close.
• Maintain accurate filing of financial records and ensure data quality, confidentiality and compliance with internal controls.
• Provide support during audits and financial reviews.
• Support the Directors and CFO with ad hoc reporting, audit requests and process improvements.

Skills and experience

• Proven bookkeeping experience, including end‑to‑end processing of sales and purchase ledgers.
• Must have a strong working knowledge of Xero (including bank feeds and reconciliation).
• Hands‑on experience preparing and submitting VAT returns.
• Experience running credit control and managing debtor queries professionally.
• Experience preparing and processing payment runs with appropriate approvals and controls.
• Confident with bank postings, bank reconciliations and resolving reconciling items.
• High attention to detail with accurate data entry and strong numerical skills.
• Good Excel skills (e.g., filters, pivot tables, basic formulas) and comfort working with deadlines.
• Clear communication skills and a collaborative approach to working with internal stakeholders and suppliers/customers.
• AAT qualified (or part‑qualified) or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience supporting month‑end journals (e.g., prepayments/accruals) and management accounts packs.
• Experience with Making Tax Digital processes and digital record‑keeping best practice.

Candidates are asked to note that the academy will conduct online searches for shortlisted candidates as part of its selection process. Online searches will only examine data that is publicly available. Depending on the role, if successful with your application you may be subject to a DBS check. Any data processed as part of a DBS check will be processed in accordance with the data protection regulations and the Academy Privacy notice. Any job offer will be conditional on the satisfactory completion of the necessary pre‑employment checks.

Working arrangements

• Location: Office based, in West Swindon
• Hours: Part‑time (24 hours per week, with flexibility to increase hours during busy periods)
• Start date: July 26
• Right to work in the UK without sponsorship
• Contract type: Permanent