At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage bookkeeping for diverse client businesses and ensure accurate financial records.
- Company: Join a growing accountancy practice with a strong client base.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured training, and clear progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working with modern accounting technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in double-entry bookkeeping and familiarity with accounting software.
- Other info: Supportive environment that values autonomy and professional development.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 40000 £ per year.
Record keeping in various formats and systems for a variety of client businesses ranging from small to large, liaising directly with clients.
The firm works with a diverse portfolio of owner-managed businesses across a range of sectors, including small companies, growing SMEs, and entrepreneurial clients. Clients value clear communication, reliable delivery, and practical support, often relying on the firm as an extension of their finance function. You will work closely with business owners, finance contacts, and external stakeholders, helping clients maintain accurate financial records, meet compliance deadlines, and improve their internal systems. The client base provides variety and challenge, offering exposure to different accounting systems, VAT schemes, and business models in a collaborative and supportive environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Full end-to-end bookkeeping for a portfolio of client businesses
- Posting and raising sales invoices and credit notes where required
- Processing sales receipts and purchase payments via bank feeds and manual entries
- Reviewing, analysing, and posting purchase invoices using Dext and manual methods
- Performing regular bank, petty cash, and credit card reconciliations
- Identifying and correcting "wrong way" and aged balances on sales and purchase ledgers
- Posting journals including wages, loan interest, and accruals
- Reconciling supplier statements and producing customer statements for credit control
- Preparing trial balances and reconciling nominal ledgers
- Preparing and submitting VAT returns under various VAT schemes
- Applying CIS rules for contractors and subcontractors, including relevant postings
- Liaising directly with clients to obtain information and resolve bookkeeping queries
- Communicating with third parties such as HMRC, suppliers, and customers when required
Essential Skills & Experience
- Strong understanding of double-entry bookkeeping (debits and credits)
- Hands-on experience using Sage 50, Sage Business Cloud, Xero, and/or QuickBooks
- Confident use of bank feeds, including setup and troubleshooting
- Experience using data capture software such as Dext
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word
- Comfortable working with scanning and document management software
- Able to work independently, manage deadlines, and take ownership of client records
Profile
- Strong background in an accountancy practice, taking ownership of bookkeeping and VAT for a portfolio of clients
- Strong hands-on knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping, with confidence in debits and credits
- Practical experience using Sage 50, Sage Business Cloud, Xero, QuickBooks, and similar software
- Comfortable preparing VAT returns under various schemes and handling CIS requirements
- Confident being the first point of contact for clients, able to explain figures clearly and resolve issues proactively
- Highly organised, commercially aware, and comfortable working autonomously while supporting and guiding junior staff
Job Offer
- Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious accountancy practice with a strong client base
- Salary range of £27,000 - £40,000, depending on experience
- Clear progression pathway into management of the bookkeeping team
- Structured training and professional development tailored to your long-term career goals
- Exposure to modern, cloud-based technology with up-to-date accounting software
- Supportive, collaborative working environment that values autonomy and development
Senior bookkeeper in Birmingham employer: Michael Page
Contact Detail:
Michael Page Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior bookkeeper in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the accounting world, attend industry events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can refer you directly to hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your bookkeeping expertise, including examples of your work with different accounting systems like Sage or Xero. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on common bookkeeping scenarios and client communication techniques. Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms, as this is key when liaising with clients.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of exciting opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior bookkeeper in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your bookkeeping expertise, especially with software like Sage and Xero, to show us you’re the right fit for our diverse client base.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about bookkeeping and how you can support our clients. Share specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or resolved client queries in the past.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since liaising with clients is key, make sure to demonstrate your communication skills in your application. We want to see how you can explain complex figures clearly and build strong relationships with clients.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Michael Page
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your double-entry bookkeeping knowledge and be ready to discuss how you’ve applied it in past roles. Be prepared to explain debits and credits clearly, as this will show your confidence and expertise in the area.
✨Familiarise with Software
Make sure you’re comfortable with the accounting software mentioned in the job description, like Sage 50, Xero, or QuickBooks. If you have experience with Dext or similar data capture software, highlight that too. Being able to discuss specific features or challenges you've faced will impress the interviewers.
✨Client Communication Skills
Since liaising with clients is a big part of the role, think of examples where you’ve successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Practice explaining how you resolve queries and maintain client relationships, as this will demonstrate your interpersonal skills.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to discuss how you manage your workload and meet deadlines, especially when handling multiple clients. Share specific strategies you use to stay organised and ensure accuracy in your work, as this will show you can handle the demands of the role effectively.