At a Glance
- Tasks: Support SME businesses with accounting, bookkeeping, and financial reporting.
- Company: Join Affinia, the UK's largest purpose-led accountancy firm.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and private health insurance.
- Other info: Flexible hours, ongoing training, and great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience with Xero and studying towards an accountancy qualification.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: On site / London, UK
Job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Accounting & Finance | Audit & Practice
Salary: Negotiable salary
Are you a self-motivated, hardworking, ambitious person looking for your next challenge? If you are, and you’re looking to join a national operation with international reach, then we have a great role for you, based at our London office near Tower Bridge. Affinia is the UK’s largest purpose‑led, purpose‑built Accountancy firm, focused on building stronger, more valuable relationships. With over 1000 colleagues across the East, Southeast, London and the Midlands, we are dedicated to supporting our clients, colleagues and communities. We advise businesses, public sector organisations, charities and individuals throughout the UK and internationally across six Service Lines – Accountancy & Advisory, Tax and Planning, Audit & Assurance, Corporate Finance, Payroll and Corporate Recovery. Our team also offers in‑depth sector expertise, ensuring our clients receive the best short‑ to medium‑term advice, tailored to them. Our people are our most valuable asset. We are therefore committed to supporting our colleagues throughout their professional development, providing guidance and training at whatever stage of their career they join us.
Role overview
The Accounts Associate will be the key member of the Business Advisory Services Department. You will provide ongoing accounting, bookkeeping, VAT and management reporting services to a portfolio of SME and owner‑managed businesses. This is not an audit role. Working with senior management and the wider team you will continue to receive structured training, if applicable, to support your career progression.
Job Description
- Preparation of financial statements, year‑end accounts, other accounting and financial returns (VAT, Management accounts, cash‑flow forecasts, etc.)
- Day‑to‑day bookkeeping and transaction processing
- Preparation of VAT returns
- Liaising with clients on routine matters
Working arrangements
The working week: 35 hours per week (Monday‑Friday) to be worked from 09:30‑17:30 with flexibility of hours to meet specific work demands. Location: Your principal work based is our London Office. Hybrid working – 3 days in the office and 2 days at home. Ability to ‘purchase’ extra days leave in salary sacrifice. Eligible to join private healthcare scheme. TOIL for overtime. Subsidised corporate gym membership at Fitness First. Life assurance (4x salary). Enhanced Maternity & Paternity pay. Employee discount platform – UHY Plus. Cycle to work scheme.
Person specifications – desirable experience and skills
- Experience in an accountancy practice and enthusiasm for working with a variety of client businesses.
- Experience in SAGE and/or Quickbooks.
- Experience with Xero (essential).
- Experience with cloud software.
- Experience using CCH.
- Studying towards a recognised accountancy qualification (ACA, ACCA or AAT or equivalent).
Benefits
- Competitive salary and negotiable framework.
- Hybrid working flexibility.
- Private health insurance.
- Ongoing professional development and training.
- Performance‑based bonus potential.
- Life assurance and pension scheme.
Affinia is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all citizens, regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected characteristic.
Accounts Associate employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
Affinia is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of London, where you can thrive as an Accounts Associate. With a strong commitment to professional development, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package including private healthcare and performance bonuses, we empower our employees to build meaningful careers while making a positive impact on clients and communities alike.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Associate
✨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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd. 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 Accounts Associate
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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd.
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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd'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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd.
✨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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd 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 Hollybank Trustees Ltd 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.