At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide financial support to charities and community organisations, preparing accounts and offering practical advice.
- Company: Join VAST, a charity dedicated to empowering local communities and supporting the VCSE sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension contribution, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Ongoing recruitment with opportunities for career growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in your community while developing your accounting skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Recognised accountancy qualification or extensive experience, strong bookkeeping skills, and teamwork abilities.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 34000 £ per year.
As an Accountant, you will provide high-quality accountancy and financial support services to VCSE organisations, including charities, CICs and social enterprises. You will prepare statutory and management accounts, support payroll and taxation requirements, and provide practical advice to trustees and staff. You will also help organisations develop good financial systems, strengthen governance and plan for sustainability. This is a varied and rewarding role for someone who enjoys combining technical accounting expertise with advisory work and a strong commitment to community impact.
What We’re Looking For
- Holds a recognised accountancy qualification or has extensive equivalent experience
- Has strong bookkeeping and accountancy skills
- Is confident presenting financial information to non-financial audiences, including trustees
- Has experience using computerised accounting systems
- Demonstrates excellent attention to detail, organisation and communication skills
- Is able to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of a supportive team
- Shares our commitment to equality, inclusion and supporting the VCSE sector
- Experience of charity accounting, independent examinations, payroll and supporting organisations to develop financial systems would be advantageous.
About Us
VAST is a registered charity dedicated to supporting and strengthening the Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Stoke-on-Trent. We work to empower local organisations, foster collaboration and build resilient, sustainable community groups. Our Community Accountancy Service plays a vital role in helping charities, social enterprises and community organisations operate effectively, meet their regulatory responsibilities and make informed financial decisions.
Why Join Us?
At VAST, you’ll be part of a values-driven organisation making a tangible difference to local communities. We offer a supportive, inclusive working environment and opportunities to develop your skills while helping others thrive.
The Role
Salary: £28,000 – £34,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Hours: 37 hours per week (part-time applications considered)
Location: The Dudson Centre, Stoke-on-Trent, with some work at client premises and scope for flexible/hybrid working
Benefits: 5% pension contribution, 22 days annual holiday plus 3 concessionary days and bank holidays (pro rata for part-time staff)
How to Apply
A CV, and A personal statement of no more than three sides of A4, explaining:
Why you like to work as part of VAST's Community Accounts team
Why you would be a good fit for the role
How your skills and experience meet the essential requirements, and if applicable the desirable requirements of the post
Closing Date: This is an ongoing recruitment process. We are actively recruiting for this post and as such will schedule interviews as suitable applications come in, so strongly encourage early applications. VAST is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and are committed to equity, equality, diversity and inclusion. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.
Accountant (Community Accounts) employer: VAST Services
VAST is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where you can make a meaningful impact in the community. As part of our Community Accountancy Service, you'll have the opportunity to develop your skills while working collaboratively with a dedicated team, all within the vibrant setting of Stoke-on-Trent. We prioritise employee growth and well-being, providing generous benefits including a pension contribution and ample holiday, making VAST a rewarding place to advance your career in accountancy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accountant (Community Accounts)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the VCSE sector and let them know you're on the lookout for an accountant role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your presentation skills. Since you'll be presenting financial info to non-financial audiences, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. This will show that you can communicate effectively with trustees and staff.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your community impact! When chatting with potential employers, highlight any previous experience you've had working with charities or social enterprises. They’ll love to see your commitment to making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining VAST and supporting the VCSE sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Accountant (Community Accounts)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Personal Statement:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Make sure you clearly explain why you want to join VAST's Community Accounts team and how your skills align with the role. Keep it concise but impactful – we want to see your passion and expertise!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your experience, focus on relevant roles that highlight your bookkeeping and accountancy skills. If you've worked with charities or social enterprises before, make sure to mention it – we love seeing that community impact!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the specific requirements of the Accountant role. Highlight your qualifications, technical skills, and any experience with computerised accounting systems. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Early!:Since we're actively recruiting, don’t wait until the last minute to apply. The sooner you submit your application through our website, the better your chances of landing an interview. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at VAST Services
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting knowledge, especially around statutory and management accounts. Be ready to discuss how you've applied your bookkeeping skills in previous roles, and think of examples where you've helped organisations develop financial systems.
✨Speak Their Language
Since you'll be presenting financial information to non-financial audiences, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Use relatable examples that demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with trustees and staff.
✨Show Your Community Spirit
VAST is all about community impact, so be prepared to share why you’re passionate about supporting the VCSE sector. Think of specific instances where your work has made a difference, and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Be Ready for Teamwork
Collaboration is key in this role, so come equipped with examples of how you've worked flexibly within a team. Highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail, and be ready to discuss how you handle challenges in a supportive environment.
