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- Tasks: Support daily financial operations and contribute to process improvements.
- Company: Join MacTaggart Scott, a leader in Naval Defence solutions since 1898.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, comprehensive leave policy, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Make an impact in finance while gaining valuable experience in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance roles, strong attention to detail, and good communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and a positive work environment.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: On-site, Loanhead, Edinburgh
Contract: 12 Month Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)
Hours: Full-time or Part-time (21–37 hours per week)
Join Our Team: Finance Assistant
MacTaggart Scott is looking to recruit a Finance Assistant to join our Finance team on a 12-month fixed-term maternity cover contract. Reporting to the Finance Manager, this role plays a key part in supporting the day-to-day financial operations of the business. This is a varied and hands-on position, ideal for someone who enjoys working with accuracy and detail, while contributing to the smooth running of financial processes. You’ll be involved in a wide range of finance activities, from expenses and reconciliations to supporting reporting and audits, with opportunities to contribute to process improvements along the way.
What is the Job About?
The Finance Assistant is responsible for supporting routine financial activities that ensure the smooth and accurate running of the finance function. This includes processing expenses, maintaining financial records, supporting supplier invoicing, and assisting with monthly reporting and reconciliations. Success in this role will be measured by the accuracy, timeliness, and quality of financial data and reporting, as well as your ability to support the wider finance team and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Process credit card and cash expenses accurately and in a timely manner
- Investigate and resolve invoice queries and issue supplier remittances
- Maintain accurate supplier and customer records
- Assist with supplier payment run preparation
- Provide cover for trade creditors during periods of absence
- Complete cash book entries and manage petty cash
- Support monthly reconciliations and identify any discrepancies
- Assist in the preparation and distribution of monthly management reports
- Support budget preparation and variance analysis
- Assist with project closures and time management processes
- Manage fixed assets, including creation, monitoring, and activation
- Support finance activities during busy periods or team absence
- Assist with year-end audit requirements
- Support system updates and improvements (including ERP systems)
- Complete government statistical surveys and charity payments
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the finance team
- Carry out general administrative duties as required
About You
You are a detail oriented and organised individual who enjoys working in a structured environment and takes pride in delivering accurate work. You are a strong team player who can also work independently, using your initiative to manage tasks and meet deadlines. You are proactive, reliable, and keen to learn, with a positive attitude and a willingness to support the wider team where needed.
Essential
- Previous experience in a Finance Assistant or similar role
- Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to build effective working relationships
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
- IT literate with experience in Microsoft Office
- Confident in learning and using new systems
- Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team
Desirable
- Exposure to ERP systems
Your Future at MacTaggart Scott – What We Offer
- Flexible Working: Choose a 4- or 5-day week with flexible hours (07:00–19:00, core hours 09:30–15:30).
- Comprehensive Leave Policy including annual leave, paid parental leave, and military reservist leave.
- Career Development & Learning Support through our dedicated Learning and Development team.
- Wellbeing Programmes including an Employee Assistance Programme, online wellbeing resources, and onsite nurse.
- Health & Lifestyle Benefits such as life insurance, sick pay, free flu jabs, and a cycle-to-work scheme.
- Financial & Recognition Rewards including a company pension and a generous employee referral scheme.
- Convenience & Facilities: free onsite parking, canteen, and employee discounts.
Finance Assistant (Maternity Cover) employer: MacTaggart, Scott and Company
Contact Detail:
MacTaggart, Scott and Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant (Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at MacTaggart Scott. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your finance knowledge and the specific tasks mentioned in the job description. We want you to show off your skills and how you can contribute to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to highlight your attention to detail during interviews. Share examples of how you've maintained accuracy in previous roles. This is key for the Finance Assistant position!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like attention to detail and organisational skills. We want to see how you can contribute to our finance team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description. Let us know what makes you tick!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your IT skills, especially if you have experience with ERP systems. We love tech-savvy candidates! If you've got any certifications or training in finance, make sure to include those too.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at MacTaggart Scott!
How to prepare for a job interview at MacTaggart, Scott and Company
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge and be ready to discuss key concepts relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with common financial terms and processes, as well as any specific software or systems mentioned in the job description.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Prepare examples from your past experience that highlight your accuracy and attention to detail. Be ready to discuss how you’ve handled financial records, reconciliations, or any discrepancies in a previous role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since this role involves supporting the wider finance team, think of instances where you’ve successfully collaborated with others. Share stories that showcase your ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s financial processes or their approach to continuous improvement. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively.