At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage finances, bookkeeping, payroll, and HR admin in a creative environment.
- Company: Join Zeal, a vibrant UK lighting and visual production company.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, competitive salary, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with potential for extension after 6-12 months.
- Why this job: Be the backbone of a dynamic team and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in bookkeeping and payroll; HR experience is a bonus.
The predicted salary is between 37000 - 42000 € per year.
We're hiring a Finance & Office Manager at Zeal. It's cover for a much-loved member of our team who's on long-term sick leave, and we're trying to be thoughtful about how we set it up — because that's how we'd want to be treated, and because we want to attract the best person we can.
The shape of the thing: Zeal is a UK lighting and visual production company of around 20 people, based in Basingstoke. We design and deliver lighting and visual productions for music tours, festivals, live events, and attractions. We're known for being meticulous, imaginative, and a genuinely good place to work.
Responsibilities: The role is the backbone of how the business runs day-to-day — bookkeeping (Xero), monthly payroll, VAT returns, year‑end with our accountants, management reports and cashflow forecasts (Float does most of the lifting), insurance, compliance, HR admin, and being the warm, organised person the team comes to with the everyday questions.
What we're looking for: someone confident with bookkeeping and payroll, organised, with good judgement and a warm way with people. HR experience is a bonus, not essential. Curious about AI tools.
The deal: £37k-£42k FTE (pro‑rata for the hours you do) Around 30 hours a week, worked flexibly — no need to do 9‑5 Hybrid: 1-2 days a week in our Basingstoke office, days agreed at offer Fixed‑term cover, expected 6‑12 months, with possibility of extension Reports to our MD.
If this sounds like you — please send a CV and a short note to careers@wearezeal.co with the subject line Finance & Office Manager.
A note for agencies and outsourced bookkeeping services: this is an in‑house hire and we're only looking to hear from individuals applying directly. Thanks for understanding.
Finance and Office Manager in Basingstoke employer: Zeal
At Zeal, we pride ourselves on being a supportive and imaginative workplace where creativity thrives. As a Finance & Office Manager, you'll enjoy flexible working hours and a hybrid model that allows you to balance your professional and personal life while contributing to exciting projects in the lighting and visual production industry. With a close-knit team of around 20 people, we foster a culture of collaboration and growth, ensuring that every employee feels valued and has opportunities to develop their skills.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance and Office Manager in Basingstoke
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company culture! Before your interview, check out Zeal's social media and website. Understanding their vibe will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their world.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those common interview questions! Think about how your experience with bookkeeping and payroll aligns with what Zeal needs. Practise your answers so you can confidently showcase your skills and how they fit into the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to ask questions during the interview! This shows your curiosity and helps you figure out if Zeal is the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to teamwork or how they handle challenges in the office.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for the Finance & Office Manager role.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance and Office Manager in Basingstoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your bookkeeping and payroll experience. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t be shy about showcasing your relevant achievements!
Craft a Personal Note:When you send your application, include a short note that reflects your personality. We’re looking for someone warm and organised, so let your enthusiasm shine through and explain why you’re excited about this role at Zeal.
Showcase Your Curiosity:Since we’re interested in candidates who are curious about AI tools, mention any relevant experience or interest you have in this area. It’ll show us that you’re forward-thinking and ready to embrace new technologies!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to send your application directly to careers@wearezeal.co. We love hearing from individuals who are genuinely interested in joining our team, so make sure to follow the application instructions carefully!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zeal
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you're comfortable with bookkeeping and payroll processes, especially using Xero. Brush up on your VAT returns and cashflow forecasts, as these are key responsibilities in the role. Being able to discuss your experience confidently will show that you’re ready to step in seamlessly.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed multiple tasks or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to stay organised and prioritise effectively, as this is crucial for the day-to-day running of the business. A well-structured response can demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Be Warm and Approachable
Since the role involves being the go-to person for everyday questions, it’s important to convey your warm personality during the interview. Share anecdotes that showcase your interpersonal skills and how you’ve built relationships in previous roles.
✨Curiosity About AI Tools
Express your interest in AI tools and how they can enhance efficiency in finance and office management. Research a few tools that could be relevant to the role and be ready to discuss how you might implement them. This shows that you’re forward-thinking and eager to innovate.
