At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage service charge budgets and ensure accurate accounting for mixed-use estates.
- Company: Join a modern property management firm in North London with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy an excellent pension, bonus potential, and a flexible 3:2 work pattern.
- Why this job: Work client-side on a diverse portfolio while developing your accounting skills.
- Qualifications: Qualified or studying CIMA, ACCA, or ACA with prior service charge accounting experience.
- Other info: Two-stage interview process via Teams/Zoom and in-person at the office.
The predicted salary is between 43000 - 67000 £ per year.
Service Charge Accountant
London | £40,000 – £50,000
Our client, a Residential Managing Agent, is seeking a Service Charge Accountant to join its Central Finance team.
Duties
To provide property managers with financial information within a reasonable timeframe
To deal with day‐to‐day queries from clients and Property Managers.
Producing periodic reporting to Clients / Property Managers
Responsible for producing variance analysis reports – actual vs budgets.
Ensure service charge budgets are entered into the system accurately and within a timely manner
Processing Service Charge invoices when required
Oversight of regular bank reconciliation process
Assist the Property manager in financial interpretation and analysis
Prepare service charge accounts summaries and associated schedules for auditors
Work with and assist auditors when required
Completing the annual service charge accounts for properties under management and issuing balancing charges/credits
Responsible for preparing dormant statutory accounts
Preparing monthly management accounts and budget reports
Process agreed instructions such as adjustments to Accounts
Uploading new buildings on the system, reconciling financial records received on handover and assuring handover has been finalised
Controlling the accounts payable and receivable processes, liaising with the management team on outstanding debtors and creditors
Requirements
Previous experience of working in a service charge or property accounting environment
Strong knowledge of year‐end accounts, budgets, cashflows and leases
Experience working with client accounting software, ideally Propman
Strong knowledge and understanding of the Landlord and Tenant Acts and relevant guidelines to producing service charge accounts.
Ability to analyse and investigate accounting issues
Strong communication skills, able to liaise with non‐financial client base and work colleagues
Why should you work for this company?
An opportunity to work in a small to mid‐size property management company working closely with the Head of Finance
Opportunity to potentially work across commercial service charges in future
Excellent benefits package including ACCA/CIMA study package
Interview process
Two stage process
1st stage on Teams/Zoom
2nd stage held face to face in the office
If you would like further information on this opportunity please apply online with your updated CV or contact Holly Osborn 07393 126240 or Alec Mackenzie 07767 661896.
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Service Charge Accountant employer: OSBORN EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT LTD
Contact Detail:
OSBORN EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Service Charge Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the RICS service charge code and relevant legislation. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the industry standards expected in this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the property management and accounting sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities at StudySmarter.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your Excel skills, particularly in areas like financial modelling and data analysis. Being able to showcase your advanced Excel capabilities during the interview will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the two-stage interview process by practising common interview questions related to service charge accounting. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences and how they align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
We think you need these skills to ace Service Charge Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in service charge accounting, particularly in residential or commercial settings. Emphasise your qualifications, such as CIMA, ACCA, or ACA, and any advanced Excel skills you possess.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the requirements mentioned in the job description. Discuss your familiarity with RICS service charge code and how your previous experience aligns with the duties outlined for the role.
Showcase Your Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of your past achievements in managing service charge budgets, conducting reconciliations, or improving processes. Quantify your successes where possible to demonstrate your impact.
Prepare for Interviews: Since the interview process includes two stages, prepare by reviewing common interview questions related to service charge accounting. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing budgets, handling queries, and working with stakeholders.
How to prepare for a job interview at OSBORN EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT LTD
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Service Charge Accountant, you'll be dealing with budgets and financial reports. Brush up on your accounting principles and be ready to discuss how you've managed service charge budgets in the past. Be prepared to explain your approach to variance analysis and reconciliations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with RICS Standards
Understanding the RICS service charge code is crucial for this role. Make sure you can articulate how you have applied these standards in previous positions. This will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to maintaining high accounting standards.
✨Showcase Your Excel Skills
Advanced Excel skills are a must for this position. Be ready to discuss specific functions or tools you’ve used in Excel to manage data, create reports, or analyse financial information. If possible, prepare examples of how you've used Excel to improve efficiency in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
This role involves partnering with key stakeholders, so be prepared to discuss your experience in managing relationships. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial colleagues or clients, as this will highlight your interpersonal skills.