Bookkeeper in Berwick-Upon-Tweed

Salary: Competitive (with enhanced overtime rate)

Working Hours: Flexible working options, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Monday to Friday

Benefits: Pension scheme, death in service, continuous professional development, and more

About Us: We are an independent Chartered Accountancy firm that has been advising and supporting clients across the UK for over 100 years. With offices in the Northeast of England, we are proud of our long-standing history of providing specialist advice to families and businesses across generations. Offering a broad range of services including bookkeeping, accounting, auditing, tax, VAT, and advisory services, we work with a diverse portfolio of clients and have built a strong reputation for excellence.

We are currently looking for an experienced Bookkeeper/VAT Assistant to join our team and help us continue our tradition of high-quality service. This role is perfect for someone who has worked in the accounts industry and is looking to make the transition to a private practice environment, where you can enjoy a varied and challenging workload while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Job Summary: As a Bookkeeper/VAT Assistant, you will specialize in managing the financial operations of both commercial and agricultural clients. The ideal candidate will have experience in bookkeeping, VAT compliance, and financial record-keeping, with a particular focus on the commercial and agricultural sectors. You will also be involved in supporting clients with Cloud Accounting software setup and training. This is a great opportunity to apply your knowledge in a private practice setting and develop your skills further.

Key Responsibilities:

• VAT Compliance & Returns: Prepare and submit accurate VAT returns in line with HMRC regulations.
• Bookkeeping & Accounts Management: Maintain financial records, process invoices, and manage ledgers.
• Bank Reconciliations: Reconcile bank statements to ensure financial accuracy.
• Financial Reporting: Produce detailed financial reports, including profit & loss statements and balance sheets.
• Liaising with HMRC: Handle VAT queries and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
• Client Support: Assist clients in setting up Cloud Accounting systems (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks) and provide ongoing training and support.
• Team Development: Support and mentor junior staff, helping them develop their skills and knowledge.

Key Requirements:

• Experience: Minimum of 3 years experience in a similar role, ideally within an accountancy practice or professional services firm.
• Commercial & Agricultural Accounting: Knowledge of financial practices within these sectors is highly desirable.
• VAT Expertise: Experience in handling VAT returns and compliance, with familiarity with Making VAT Digital.
• Bookkeeping Qualifications: Formal qualifications such as AAT are beneficial but not essential.
• Advanced Skills in Xero and QuickBooks: Must have advanced proficiency in Xero and QuickBooks to assist with client setup, training, and ongoing support.
• Client-Focused: Strong track record in managing client relationships and delivering high-quality service.
• Cloud Accounting Systems: Proficient in systems such as Xero, QuickBooks, Sage, and Farmplan, with experience in client setup and training.
• Attention to Detail: High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• IT Skills: Proficiency in accounting software and MS Office Suite (especially Excel).

Why Join Us?

• Flexible Working: We offer a flexible working environment, including the ability to work from home, helping you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Continuous learning and clear career progression opportunities to help you grow in your career.
• Collaborative Culture: Work with a supportive, high-performing team that values each individual's contributions.
• Diverse Client Base: Gain exposure to a wide range of industries, from commercial to agricultural clients.
• Competitive Package: Enjoy a competitive salary, enhanced overtime rate, pension scheme, and other benefits, including death in service.

How to Apply: If you're an experienced bookkeeper with advanced skills in Xero and QuickBooks, looking to make the transition into private practice, we want to hear from you! Please submit your CV along with a cover letter explaining why you're the perfect fit for this role. Join us and become part of a firm that values your experience, supports your professional growth, and provides a healthy work-life balance. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds.