At a Glance
- Tasks: Support bookkeeping and VAT tasks for a diverse range of SME clients.
- Company: Join a friendly, established accountancy practice in Hurst.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, skill development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and teamwork.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in accounting while working with varied clients.
- Qualifications: 3 years' experience in bookkeeping/VAT and knowledge of online software.
The predicted salary is between 39600 - 48400 £ per year.
Sweeting & Smedley Limited is a well-established accountancy practice based in Hurst, near Wokingham. We work with a varied portfolio of SME clients and pride ourselves on providing a friendly, professional and reliable service.
The Role
You will work closely with the Bookkeeping and VAT Manager, supporting a mixed portfolio of SME clients. The role will involve bookkeeping, VAT return preparation, client communication, HMRC liaison and general practice support. This position would suit someone who is organised, accurate and confident working both independently and as part of a team.
Key Responsibilities
- Preparing bookkeeping records for a portfolio of SME clients
- Preparing and submitting VAT returns
- Assisting with VAT registrations and de-registrations
- Using cloud accounting software such as Xero, FreeAgent, Sage and QuickBooks
- Supporting the preparation of management information and financial reports
- Assisting with year-end bookkeeping adjustments and closing balance reviews
- Responding to client queries in a professional and timely manner
- Liaising with HMRC where required
- Working with the wider team to ensure deadlines are met
- Providing general administrative and office support to the practice
About You
We are looking for someone with:
- At least 3 years' experience in an accountancy practice or similar bookkeeping/VAT role
- Strong bookkeeping and VAT knowledge
- Experience working with SME clients
- Confident knowledge of online bookkeeping software, ideally including Xero, FreeAgent, Sage and/or QuickBooks
- AAT qualified, part-qualified or qualified by experience
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Good communication skills and confidence dealing with clients
- The ability to manage deadlines and prioritise workload
- A proactive, reliable and team-focused approach
Why Join Us?
- Join a friendly and well-established accountancy practice
- Work with a varied portfolio of SME clients
- Gain exposure to bookkeeping, VAT, client advisory and practice support work
- Be part of a supportive team with opportunities to develop your skills
- Competitive salary based on experience
Practice Bookkeeper / VAT Assistant in Reading employer: Sweeting & Smedley
Sweeting & Smedley Limited is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and friendly work environment in Hurst, near Wokingham. With a focus on employee growth, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills while working with a diverse portfolio of SME clients. The company values teamwork and professionalism, ensuring that you are part of a reliable team dedicated to delivering high-quality service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Practice Bookkeeper / VAT Assistant in Reading
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We think you need these skills to ace Practice Bookkeeper / VAT Assistant in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Sweeting & Smedley.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Sweeting & Smedley's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sweeting & Smedley
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Sweeting & Smedley.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Sweeting & Smedley will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Sweeting & Smedley employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
