Accounts Assistant - FTC

Position Summary

We are looking for a highly organised and detail-oriented Accounts Assistant to join our finance team on a 12-month fixed term contract. You will support the day-to-day running of the finance function, ensuring that financial transactions are processed accurately, records are maintained effectively, and queries are dealt with promptly.

This is a role covering purchase ledger and general finance administration. You will work closely with colleagues across the business, as well as suppliers and other external stakeholders.

The role would suit someone with previous accounts or bookkeeping experience who is looking to develop their career within finance. The candidate would need to travel to another Parker Meggitt site in Stevenage once a month.

Responsibilities

Purchase Ledger / Accounts Payable

• Process purchase and supplier invoices accurately and efficiently.
• Check invoices against purchase orders, delivery documentation and agreed terms.
• Code and post invoices to the accounting system.
• Investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies and outstanding queries.
• Maintain accurate supplier accounts and records.
• Reconcile supplier statements and investigate unmatched or outstanding items.
• Produce supplier payment runs and payment administration.
• Reconciliations and Financial Administration
• Complete regular bank, supplier, customer and other account reconciliations.
• Investigate differences and ensure corrective entries are made where required.
• Maintain accurate financial records, spreadsheets and supporting documentation.
• Process routine accounting transactions and journal entries.
• Assist with month-end and year-end accounting procedures.
• Support the preparation of financial reports and management information.
• Provide general finance administration and support to the wider finance team.
• Undertake ad-hoc accounting duties and projects as required.

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

• Previous experience in an Accounts Assistant, Finance Assistant, Bookkeeper or similar finance role.
• Practical experience of purchase ledger/accounts payable and/or sales ledger/accounts receivable.
• Experience of processing invoices and maintaining accurate financial records.
• Experience completing bank or account reconciliations.
• Good understanding of basic accounting principles and financial processes.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• Experience using accounting software such as Syspro or an equivalent system.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
• Good communication skills and confidence dealing with colleagues, customers and suppliers.
• A methodical approach to investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider finance team.
• Experience with month-end procedures.
• Previous experience in an SME or fast-paced finance environment.

Qualifications/Education

• AAT Level 2, 3 or above, or be working towards an equivalent qualification is desirable
• Relevant practical accounts/bookkeeping experience combined with a sound understanding of accounting principles.
• GCSEs or equivalent, particularly English and Maths, are desirable for junior-level candidates.

Pay, Benefits, Work Schedule

What We Offer

Parker Meggitt is proud to offer a competitive total rewards framework designed with our Team Members' health, wealth and well-being in mind to help balance a successful career.

Our competitive package will include

Competitive salary

Early finish on Fridays

Pension scheme with up to 10% company contribution

25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell up to 5 days

Service-related holiday allowance, increasing up to 5 additional days

Income protection scheme

Life assurance at 4x basic salary

Share buying scheme

Cash plan or private medical cover

Employee Assistance Program for health and wellbeing

Employee Perkz, offering discounts on a wide variety of goods and services

Free on-site car parking

Employee referral scheme

Career progression opportunities

Volunteering day off

Parker Meggitt is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse working environment. We believe that people from different backgrounds define who we are as a business and that building a culture of respect and appreciation will give everyone the opportunity to recognise their full potential.