At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare VAT returns, assist with reconciliations, and support audits in a dynamic finance team.
- Company: Join the Finance team at Torbay Council, where ambition meets opportunity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, structured training, and clear career progression in public sector finance.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your finance career with hands-on experience in a specialist VAT role.
- Qualifications: A-level education and some experience in finance or accountancy required.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 34434 £ per year.
There has never been a better time to join our Finance team at Torbay Council. We have a real momentum building with a shared sense of purpose and ambition. An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Corporate Finance service team for an Assistant Accountant - VAT. This is a varied and engaging role offering exposure to a wide range of technical VAT responsibilities within a local authority environment.
- Preparation and submission of monthly VAT returns.
- Assisting with reconciliations between VAT ledger accounts and HMRC reclaim totals.
- Responding to routine VAT coding and treatment queries from finance colleagues and service areas.
- Supporting the preparation of schedules and evidence for internal and external audit, including HMRC information requests.
- Assisting with the maintenance and update of VAT policy documents and procedure notes.
- Contributing to the effective management of daily cashflow activities.
This role sits within a highly specialist and technical area of finance (VAT), providing an excellent opportunity to develop in-depth knowledge of VAT legislation and its application within a complex public sector setting. You will join a supportive and experienced team, with access to structured training, on-the-job learning, and opportunities for professional study. As part of this role, you will be supported to build your expertise and progress within this specialist field, with a clear pathway towards more senior VAT roles. This makes the role an ideal opportunity for someone looking to establish and grow a career in a technical area of public sector finance.
Interviews are expected to be conducted during the week commencing 22nd June 2026. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Skills Essential:
- Effective interpersonal skills and the ability to work both independently, using own initiative and as part of a team.
- Ability to undertake a diverse workload and produce desired outcomes with deadlines, working with conflicting demands and priorities to meet deadlines.
- A flexible and adaptable communication style and able to communicate to a wider range of audiences.
- To be willing to learn and develop new skills.
- A high level of numeracy, literacy and IT skills.
Knowledge Essential:
- Basic knowledge and understanding of accounting standards.
- Basic knowledge and understanding of closing annual accounts.
- Basic knowledge and understanding of bookkeeping of financial records.
- Basic knowledge and understanding of costing, cashflow management and forecasting.
Experience & Qualifications Essential:
- Educated to A level standard or equivalent.
- Experience of working within a financial/accountancy environment.
- Experience of working with information technology-based systems and PC based software.
Assistant Accountant - 37 Hours employer: Torbay Council
Joining Torbay Council as an Assistant Accountant offers a unique opportunity to be part of a dynamic Finance team that is committed to professional growth and community impact. With a strong emphasis on training and development, employees benefit from structured learning paths and the chance to specialise in VAT within a supportive environment. The council's collaborative culture fosters teamwork and innovation, making it an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career in public sector finance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Accountant - 37 Hours
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Torbay Council. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Accountant - 37 Hours
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 Torbay Council.
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 Torbay Council'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 Torbay Council
✨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 Torbay Council.
✨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 Torbay Council 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 Torbay Council 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.
