At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in accounting tasks, manage sales and purchase ledgers, and support month-end processes.
- Company: Join a dynamic finance team at a leading organisation with a commitment to growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy learning opportunities, performance bonuses, and flexible benefits like gym discounts.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career progression.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in finance and gain hands-on experience in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Basic knowledge of bookkeeping, SAP experience preferred, and strong Excel skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
This role is responsible for assisting in a broad range of accounting and finance activities, working closely with other members of the finance team. It has primary responsibility for day‑to‑day sales and purchase ledger management, with processing support from the shared services unit, and assigned month‑end tasks to include reconciliation work and journal preparation.
Main Responsibilities
- Manage Accounts Receivable process
- Issue of sales invoices, credit notes and customer statements
- Loading invoices to various e‑invoicing portals
- Preparation of intercompany sales forms in SAP for internal customers
- Postings of receipts from customers in SAP
- Receipt of customer credit card payments
- Resolve customer or lab queries related to invoices and POs
- Assist with month‑end billing and statement processes
- Manage Accounts Payable process
- Monitor and clear parked and blocked invoices in SAP
- Work with all involved parties to resolve vendor queries and disputes
- Proactively review AP ledger and highlight issues for resolution
- Respond immediately to urgent or stop‑issue requests for same‑day resolution, working closely with purchasing and shared services and informing or escalating to relevant stakeholders
- Completion of assigned period‑end tasks to tight monthly deadlines
- General ledger and subledger reconciliations (GR‑IR, stock, bank, car lease costs) and input to Blackline reconciliation tool
- Recurring and ad‑hoc journal preparation and posting
- Prepare and post accruals and prepayments journals, maintaining corresponding reconciled monthly schedules
- Training and marketing cost reconciliations and SAP project settlements
- Provide periodic cost and other ad‑hoc analyses to labs and cost centre managers, and work with Finance and IT teams to improve site‑wide reporting
- Work closely with Purchasing team to manage month‑end close of goods receipting and accounts payable ledger, also providing independent verification of stock controls and assistance with process improvements
- Point of contact for the Reading site for the Travel & Expenses system (Concur) and company credit cards, resolving queries with the global T&E team
- Assist with ad‑hoc tasks and completion of month‑end processes, ensuring team deadlines are met and leave is adequately covered
- Prepare and submit Capex requisition and disposal forms
- Know the ethical and legal compliance responsibilities of the position and raise questions or concerns when faced with related issues, applying integrity in all aspects of professional conduct
Qualifications
- Education and experience; basic knowledge of double entry bookkeeping and accounts required
- Experience of working with SAP desirable
- Good Excel spreadsheet skills
- Hands‑on experience in accounting
- Extremely organised and motivated
- Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise multiple tasks
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent numeracy, accuracy and attention to detail
Benefits
- Opportunities to learn and develop
- Performance‑Related Bonus scheme
- Contributory pension (8%–11% employer contribution)
- Life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- A flexible benefits programme (gym discounts, private health insurance, restaurant discounts, etc.)
Junior Accountant in Reading employer: Rssl
At RSSL, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As a Junior Accountant, you'll benefit from a performance-related bonus scheme, a generous pension contribution, and access to a flexible benefits programme, all while working in a collaborative environment that values integrity and teamwork. Located in Reading, our commitment to employee well-being is further enhanced by our Employee Assistance Programme and opportunities for continuous learning.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Accountant in Reading
✨Get Involved with Campus Finance Societies
Join your university's finance or investment society — they're a goldmine for networking, guest lectures, and career fairs. These societies often host employers looking for entry-level talent like you, so get involved and make yourself known!
✨Attend Industry Workshops and Webinars
Look for workshops and webinars focused on banking and financial services. These events not only boost your knowledge but also let you connect with industry professionals who could help you land that entry-level role at places like Rssl.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Informational Interviews
Take advantage of LinkedIn to reach out to professionals working in banking, especially those who've started in entry-level positions. Politely ask for a quick chat about their experience and any advice they might have on breaking into the field.
✨Apply Directly through Company Websites
Don't just rely on job boards. Head directly to Rssl's careers page and look for their entry-level openings. They might have opportunities that aren’t advertised widely, so keep checking back for new listings!
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Accountant in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Splash Your Skills on Your CV:In the banking and financial services realm, it's all about numbers and analysis. Make sure to highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or projects where you've used skills like financial modelling, data analysis, or risk assessment. Show us you can crunch those numbers!
Educational Achievements Matter:For an entry-level role, your grades and academic accomplishments are key. If you have any certifications, like CFA Level 1 or something similar, don’t forget to include them. We love seeing ambition and commitment to the industry, so flaunt those achievements!
Craft a Personal Touch in Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to show us your enthusiasm for banking and finance! Share why you're passionate about the industry and how your studies or previous experiences have prepared you for this role. We want to see that spark and motivation!
Use the Right Format and Language:In banking, clarity is king. Use a clean, professional format for your CV and cover letter. Make sure to avoid jargon, but don’t shy away from technical terms where appropriate – just keep it all clear and easy to read. Let’s see your professionalism shine through!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rssl
✨Brush Up on Your Financial Knowledge
Since you're diving into the banking and financial services industry, make sure you're up to speed with current market trends and financial concepts. Be prepared to discuss things like interest rates and investment strategies, as you might get some technical questions that gauge your understanding.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Analytical skills are key in banking, so be ready to showcase how you've used them in your studies or any relevant projects. Prepare to tackle case studies or hypothetical financial scenarios during the interview that require you to analyse data and make informed decisions.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
As this is an entry-level role, they’ll likely look for how well you can collaborate and fit into their team. Think of examples from group projects or internships where you successfully worked with others. It'll help show that you're keen to learn and grow in a team-oriented environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Approach your interview with curiosity! Prepare insightful questions that reflect your knowledge of the industry, such as asking about the latest technology being implemented in their services. It shows you're genuinely interested in the company's operations and future.