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- Tasks: Own the finance function, manage bookkeeping, and drive process improvements.
- Company: Stable, growing SME with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and support for AAT qualifications.
- Why this job: Shape the finance function and grow into a strategic role.
- Qualifications: Experience in bookkeeping or accounting; QuickBooks knowledge is a plus.
- Other info: Hybrid role with excellent long-term career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Join a stable, growing SME as a Senior Bookkeeper‑Finance Manager where you can truly own the finance function. This is a hands‑on role offering the chance to combine bookkeeping, finance management, and reporting with higher‑level responsibilities such as budgeting, forecasting, and process improvement. With support for further AAT qualifications and opportunities to shape the finance function, this is perfect for someone looking to grow with a business.
As the sole finance professional, you will:
- Maintain and oversee bookkeeping (accounts payable/receivable, payroll, general ledger)
- Prepare management accounts and liaise with external accountants
- Reconcile bank, credit card, and balance sheet transactions
- Monitor cash flow, manage budgets, forecasts, and provide financial reporting
- Process supplier invoices, sales invoicing, and manage aged debtors
- Support payroll and statutory submissions (PAYE, NI, pensions, VAT)
- Identify and implement improvements to financial processes and systems
We’re looking for someone with:
- Strong experience in bookkeeping or accounting, ideally in an SME
- Proficiency in QuickBooks, BrightPay, or Lightyear desirable but not essential
- Strong attention to detail, organisation, and analytical skills
- Ability to work independently, flexibly, and take ownership of the finance function
- Excellent interpersonal skills to liaise with internal stakeholders and external providers
Location & Working Arrangements:
- Hybrid role: minimum three days in‑office, two days remote
- Full‑time, five days per week; potential working hours include 9am–5pm, 8am–4pm, 9am–3pm, or other flexible variations
- Candidates must be within a reasonable commuting distance
Why You’ll Love It Here:
- Competitive salary £35–40k, plus standard benefits and flexible working options
- Support for further AAT study after qualifying period
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping the finance function and grow into a strategic position
- Small, supportive team and professional working environment
- Long‑term career development with scope to build a team in the future
Finance Officer in Harlow employer: Palmer McCarthy
Contact Detail:
Palmer McCarthy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer in Harlow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, attend industry events, and join relevant online groups. 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 practising common questions and showcasing your skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with bookkeeping and finance management, and how you can bring value to the team. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for opportunities that excite you, and tailor your approach to each role to stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and show your enthusiasm for the role. It’s a simple way to keep yourself top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer in Harlow
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 and finance management experience, and don’t forget to mention any relevant software you’ve used like QuickBooks or BrightPay.
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. Talk about your passion for finance and how you can contribute to shaping the finance function at our company.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In finance, attention to detail is key. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. This not only shows your professionalism but also reflects the meticulous nature we value in our finance team.
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’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Palmer McCarthy
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your bookkeeping and finance management skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and financial reporting. Highlight specific examples of how you've managed budgets or improved processes in previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
If you have experience with QuickBooks, BrightPay, or Lightyear, make sure to mention it! Even if you haven't used these tools, do a bit of research on them. Showing that you're proactive about learning can impress the interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Independence
Since this role requires someone who can work independently, prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to take ownership of projects. Talk about times when you successfully managed tasks without much supervision and how you ensured accuracy and efficiency.
✨Engage with the Team Spirit
This position involves liaising with internal stakeholders and external providers, so be ready to discuss your interpersonal skills. Share experiences where you effectively communicated or collaborated with others to achieve financial goals, showing that you’re a team player.