Finance Assistant

A well-established business is seeking a Finance Administrator to join its team in Manchester.

This varied role will support the day-to-day finance function, covering accounts receivable, accounts payable, banking and general ledger activities using Sage 50. The position has the potential to become permanent for the right candidate.

It is an excellent opportunity for someone who has completed AAT Level 2 and would like to continue their professional development through an apprenticeship.

Key Responsibilities

• Produce and issue customer invoices using Sage 50.
• Create and maintain accurate customer records on the sales ledger.
• Allocate and reconcile customer receipts.
• Manage applications for payment, self-billing arrangements and retentions.
• Carry out credit-control activities and follow up outstanding payments.
• Process purchase invoices accurately and promptly.
• Create and maintain supplier records on the purchase ledger.
• Prepare and process supplier payments.
• Complete bank reconciliations.
• Liaise with the external accountant to support the preparation of monthly management accounts.
• Manage timesheets for hourly paid employees and prepare monthly overtime reports.
• Process employee expense payments.
• Complete CIS online submissions and issue deduction statements to subcontractors.
• Support quarterly VAT returns and monthly HMRC reporting.
• Prepare financial information for the annual audit.
• Coordinate stocktakes and maintain accurate records.
• Maintain and produce monthly headcount reports.

Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in a finance or accounts role, either within an accountancy practice or a commercial business.
• AAT Level 2 qualification, with an interest in continuing further training through an apprenticeship.
• A good foundation in accounting principles, including debits and credits, bank postings, and sales and purchase ledger transactions.
• Experience using Sage 50 Accounts Desktop is desirable.
• Applicants with experience using other accounting systems, such as Xero or QuickBooks, will also be considered.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• An understanding of the confidentiality and ethical standards required within a finance function.
• GCSEs in Maths and English, or equivalent qualifications, as a minimum.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, high-volume finance environment.