Finance Assistant – Onsite, SME Rental Growth in Heighington

A great opportunity to join a small team in an SME, family-run business. Our client prides themselves on the quality of service and maintenance offered to longstanding and new customers and the comprehensive rental fleet. This role plays a key part in supporting the company's financial operations.

The Rental Finance Assistant will be responsible for tasks such as:

• Processing invoices
• Managing accounts payable and receivable
• Reconciling bank accounts
• Maintaining accurate financial records
• Using accounting software to input data, produce financial reports, and assist with budgeting and payroll activities

The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong attention to detail, ensure compliance, and provide valuable support to the wider team.

Key Responsibilities

• Banking & Reconciliation
  • Perform daily bank reconciliations for both current and deposit accounts.
  • Monitor and check all asset finance instalments to ensure correct coding and up-to-date records in Sage.
  • Manage daily bank transfers between deposit and current accounts to optimise interest.
• Accounts & Financial Records
  • Accurately input all financial data into Sage to maintain up-to-date Management Accounts.
  • Record and reconcile all asset finance agreements, HP interest journals, and vehicle purchases (both outright and financed).
  • Raise and process vehicle sales invoices, ensuring correct allocation for depreciation and revaluation.
  • Prepare and produce financial reports for directors, bank meetings, audits, and ad-hoc requirements.
  • Support with monthly management reporting packs.
• Account Receivable & Credit Control
  • Raise the majority of sales invoices (c.95%) using the Syrinx CRM system, including both customer recharges and standard hire invoices.
  • Carry out all monthly invoicing for hire contracts and import transactions into Sage for accurate financial reporting.
  • Prepare and submit direct debit runs through Secure Collections for all customers on these payment terms, ensuring funds are received promptly for both hire and recharge invoices.
  • Manage bi-monthly recharge runs (1st and 15th of each month), including submission to Secure Collections and proactive communication with customers.
  • Ensure invoicing processes are followed accurately, maintaining compliance with customer requirements and contractual obligations.
  • Compile supporting documentation (inspection sheets, job sheets, photos, etc.) for customers requiring proof of charges, and upload to portals where necessary.
  • Run weekly aged debtor reports, actively chase outstanding balances, and escalate to directors if customers fail to pay.
• Accounts Payable
  • Manage supplier invoicing, from receipt to approval and payment, ensuring accurate nominal coding and correct cost allocation.
  • File invoices digitally and physically, and prepare supplier payment runs for authorisation.
  • Validate supplier costs against agreed rates (NPA, labour, and parts pricing), raising queries where necessary.
• Payroll & Expense Management
  • Assist with monthly payroll processing.
  • Track mileage, expenses, and staff claims in line with company policy and HMRC compliance.
• Compliance & Reporting
  • Support finance and operations compliance requirements, ensuring documentation and audit trails are in order.
  • Assist with internal and external audits.
  • Respond to customer and supplier queries relating to accounts, hire contracts, and compliance.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong knowledge of double-entry bookkeeping and financial reconciliations.
• Proficiency in Sage (or similar accounting software), Excel, and CRM systems (ideally Syrinx).
• Excellent attention to detail with a focus on accuracy and compliance.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise workload effectively.
• Confident communicator with customers, suppliers, and colleagues.
• Problem-solving skills with the ability to query and challenge costs or charges.
• Ability to handle sensitive financial data confidentially.

Experience & Qualifications

• Previous experience in an accounts assistant, finance assistant, or similar role.
• Experience within rental, leasing, automotive, or asset finance industry (desirable).
• Working knowledge of payroll support and expense tracking.
• GCSEs (minimum grade C/4 in Maths and English) or equivalent; AAT qualification (desirable but not essential).

Reporting Line

• Reports to: Finance Manager / Operations Director
• Works closely with: Accounts team, Operations, and Senior Management

Package

• Competitive salary (depending on experience).
• EAP - Perkbox after successful probationary period.
• Opportunities for development within the finance and rental operations team.
• Death in Service x 2.
• Free parking.
• Annual Bonus after 12 months service.
• 31 days holiday, increasing with service up to 35 days.