UKC Group (ukc.group) is an established, global leader specializing in obsolescence supply chain solutions, reverse engineering, and custom manufacturing for the commercial, aerospace, and defence sectors. Operating from our custom-built 40-acre head office facility, we manage a unique multi-entity portfolio. This role directly handles the day-to-day accounting and payroll operations for four of our key group companies based at head office. We are currently transitioning our financial software from Sage 50 to Sage Intacct, with structured training provided.
Working Hours:
- Monday - Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (Early weekend start)
Location & Commute:
Address: UKC Group, Scatterbrook Farm, Rectory Lane, Latchingdon, Essex, CM3 6HB. Important Note: Our offices are set in a beautiful, rural countryside location. Because there is no public transport access to the site, holding a valid driving license and having your own reliable transport is strictly essential.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain Sales and Purchase Ledgers across the four designated entities.
- Process a highly manageable daily volume of 8-10 purchase invoices across the group.
- Monitor incoming advance payments.
- Execute daily multi-currency bank reconciliations and process payments across multiple foreign currencies.
- Run the end-to-end processing of monthly staff payroll and wages for the group, ensuring accurate statutory deductions, NI, and pension allocations.
- Prepare quarterly VAT returns ready for submission within HMRC deadlines.
- Post standard month-end adjustments (accruals/prepayments) and compile basic P&L and Balance Sheet figures for the fractional FD.
- Prepare group consolidated accounts on a monthly basis.
Key Skills & Experience:
- Strong background in an all-round accounting, bookkeeping, or assistant accountant role.
- Proficient, hands-on operational knowledge of Accounts packages.
- Direct experience running end-to-end UK staff payroll and wages (essential).
- Confident working across multi-company and multi-currency transactions.
- High attention to detail, strong organization, and the ability to work independently in a quiet, low-transaction, and focused office environment.
- Ideally Qualified by Experience or working towards professional qualifications.
Job Type & Benefits:
- Job Type: Full-time, Permanent
- Salary: Starting £36,000 (Negotiable dependent on experience)
- Perks: On-site gym, free secure on-site parking, modern rural offices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Finance Assistant / Assistant Accountant
✨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 UKC group. 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 Group Finance Assistant / Assistant Accountant
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 UKC group.
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 UKC group'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 UKC group
✨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 UKC group.
✨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 UKC group 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 UKC group 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.
