At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as an Accounts Assistant, managing client portfolios and preparing VAT returns.
- Company: S&W is a top 10 UK accountancy firm, helping clients thrive since 1881.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, hybrid working, and generous holiday packages.
- Other info: We celebrate diversity and offer a supportive, inclusive workplace for all.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, delivering high-quality work and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 3 qualified with experience in cloud-based accounting software.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Job Description
What will you be doing?
We are looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Accounts Assistant to help in the accurate processing of clients' financial data and assist with the preparation of management accounts and other outputs, within the timeframe agreed with the client or required by statute.
This is a permanent role to be based at either our Edinburgh, Kirkcaldy or Stirling office, with a hybrid working model (role dependent) – please speak to your recruiter for more details.
Responsibilities
- Prepare and input client transactions onto computerised ledger systems
- Reconciliation of sales and purchase ledgers and bank accounts on software
- Preparation of quarterly VAT returns for review
- Preparation of quarterly VAT/EC Sales list returns from financial information supplied by client for review
- Assisting with the preparation of annual financial statements, including statutory accounts, partnership accounts and sole trader accounts for tax purposes
- Assisting with the preparation of monthly and quarterly management accounts and attending to client administration including engagement letters and billing processes
Qualifications
To be successful in this role, you should have experience
- Prior experience of computerised accounting packages including cloud-based software
- Ability to work independently but as part of a wider team
- Results orientated to meet and exceed client expectations, with a key focus on delivering high quality work that consistently meets internal and/or external client deadlines
- Understanding of new accounting standards
- AAT qualification or ACCA qualification (or studying towards)
Desired
- Experience with IRIS or Silverfin accounting software
Additional Information
- Competitive salary
- Private medical insurance
- Life assurance
- Pension contribution
- Hybrid working model (role dependent)
- Generous holiday package
- Option to purchase additional holiday
- Shared parental leave
- Cycle to work scheme
- Season ticket loan
- Eye care support
We are proud to value the differences that a diverse workforce brings, representative of society and our clients. At S&W we have a wide range of highly active employee resource groups and we’re delivering multiple diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives across the organisation. It is our commitment to provide a workplace where all colleagues, regardless of identity, background, or circumstance, feel respected as individuals and feel that they can achieve their full potential and work in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.
We are happy to make any reasonable adjustments to accommodate for your needs throughout the application process. Please let your Recruiter know.
Accounts Assistant employer: SW Group
At S&W, we pride ourselves on being one of the UK’s top 10 fastest-growing accountancy firms, offering a dynamic work environment in Beaconsfield that fosters professional growth and collaboration. Our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our competitive salary, private medical insurance, and generous holiday package, alongside a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, ensuring every team member feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific accounting software mentioned in the job description, particularly Xero. Having hands-on experience or even completing a short course can give you an edge and show your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your knowledge of UK GAAP and VAT regulations. Being able to discuss these topics confidently during your interview will demonstrate your technical expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of S&W through platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to manage client portfolios and meet deadlines. Highlighting your results-oriented mindset will resonate well with the company's focus on exceeding client expectations.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your AAT qualification and relevant experience in VAT compliance and accounting. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage client portfolios and prepare financial data.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role at S&W and how your skills align with their mission to help clients thrive. Mention your familiarity with cloud-based accounting software like Xero, as this is beneficial for the position.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Emphasise your technical knowledge of UK GAAP and your experience with computerised accounting packages. Provide examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles to meet client expectations.
Highlight Teamwork and Independence:Demonstrate your ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Share experiences where you have collaborated with colleagues or taken initiative on projects, showcasing your results-oriented approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at SW Group
✨Know Your VAT Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of VAT regulations and compliance. Being able to discuss VAT returns and related services confidently will show that you're prepared and understand the core responsibilities of the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Accounting Software
Since experience with computerised accounting packages is essential, take some time to familiarise yourself with Xero or similar cloud-based software. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these tools during the interview can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Even though the role requires independent work, emphasise your ability to collaborate within a team. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to meet deadlines or solve problems, as this aligns with the company's values.
✨Prepare Questions About Company Culture
S&W values diversity and inclusion, so prepare thoughtful questions about their initiatives and workplace culture. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
