At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with financial reporting, tax prep, and bookkeeping while gaining real-world experience.
- Company: Join Affinia Ltd, a forward-thinking firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid model with a focus on career growth and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make an impact in accounting while working towards a recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: Studying for ACA, ACCA, or AAT; strong communication and IT skills are a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Hybrid / Sidcup, UK
Job type: Permanent / Full-time
Sector and subsector: Accounting & Finance | Accounts Payable
Salary: Competitive
Summary of the role:
A Semi‑Senior Accountant will assist with financial reporting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, VAT return preparation and gain real‑world accounting experience. Working with Senior Accountants and the wider team, you’ll receive a structured training path to support your career progression at Affinia Ltd. We operate a hybrid working model, splitting time between the office, client sites, and study for professional exams with flexibility to work from home as needed. We also provide ongoing training to develop soft skills, including positive first impressions, time‑management and communication. You will continue to work towards an internationally recognised accountancy qualification, gaining valuable on‑the‑job experience with a respected firm.
Key tasks and responsibilities:
- Assist portfolio holders in delivering a broad range of accounting services while maintaining exceptional customer service.
- Preparation of year‑end statutory accounts for Sole Traders, partnerships, LLPs, Charities and Limited Companies.
- Preparation of corporation tax returns for review.
- Assist with preparation of VAT returns for review.
- Liaise with clients and respond to queries professionally.
- Keep up to date with changes in accounting regulations and financial laws.
- Prepare and process invoices, expenses and payments.
- Collaboratively work with other Service Lines within our group.
- Assist more junior members of the team in accounts and bookkeeping activities.
- Assist Directors/Managers with ad hoc projects.
- Train and mentor junior staff and provide technical guidance on simple accounting concepts.
- Take on additional responsibilities as identified in association with role expectations.
Professional skills/qualifications:
- A degree is not essential but may be advantageous (e.g., Accounting, Finance, Business, Data Science).
- You will have the opportunity to study and obtain a professionally recognised qualification (ACA, ACCA or AAT Level 4 or higher).
- Currently studying towards a professional qualification such as ACA, ACCA or AAT (Level 4 or higher).
- A‑levels (or equivalent) in Maths and/or English are advantageous but not essential.
- A minimum of 5 GCSEs (Level 5 and above), including Maths and English Language.
- Strong IT/Microsoft Office abilities.
- Experience with CCH, Sage, QuickBooks or Xero is desirable but not essential (full training provided).
- Clear written and spoken communication skills.
- Enjoy working with people.
- Enjoy learning both formally and on the job.
Culture & Core Benefits:
At Affinia, our culture is driven by ambition and a commitment to positively impact all the communities we serve. We are dedicated to the success, development, and wellbeing of our colleagues, helping them achieve their goals and seize opportunities that arise with our growth. Alongside a flexible and inclusive work environment, we offer the following core benefits:
- Auto‑enrolment Pension Scheme.
- Professional membership support.
- PayCare – claim money back for Dental / Optical / Professional Therapies.
- Dress for your Diary Policy.
Affinia is a flexible business that embraces a hybrid working model where our colleagues enjoy a mix of home and office work. We welcome applications from people seeking flexible roles and are happy to explore preferred working patterns. Affinia is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is unequivocal: we do not tolerate discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, or sexual orientation. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation that actively promotes equality of opportunity for all, valuing the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates, and selection for roles is based solely on individual merit.
Semi-Senior – Accounts in London employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
Contact Detail:
Hollybank Trustees Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Semi-Senior – Accounts in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or at events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and role. Understand their values and how you can contribute. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your soft skills! Communication and time management are key in accounting roles. Try mock interviews with friends or use online resources to sharpen these skills before you step into the real deal.
✨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 the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Semi-Senior – Accounts in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Semi-Senior Accountant role. Highlight any relevant accounting qualifications or experience, especially if you're studying towards ACA, ACCA, or AAT.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about accounting and how you can contribute to our team. Mention any specific experiences that showcase your customer service skills and teamwork.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since clear communication is key in this role, ensure your application is well-written and free of errors. This is your chance to demonstrate your written communication skills right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it during our review!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially around financial reporting and tax preparation. Be ready to discuss your understanding of VAT returns and statutory accounts, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Since the job involves liaising with clients and mentoring junior staff, highlight your communication skills and ability to work collaboratively. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed time or resolved conflicts in previous roles.
✨Research the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Affinia's commitment to inclusivity and professional development. Be prepared to discuss how you align with their values and how you can contribute to their ambitious culture.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the training opportunities and career progression within the company. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and your desire to grow within the organisation.