Our client a local charity and housing association are looking to recruit a Trainee Finance Assistant to join their friendly team.
You will play an integral role within the finance team by supporting day-to-day accounts payable operations while gradually developing skills across wider finance functions. The role will provide hands-on experience in transactional finance and exposure to management accounts, enabling you to build a strong foundation in financial operations while completing your AAT studies.
Key Responsibilities
Accounts Payable
- Process supplier invoices, ensuring accurate coding and timely approvals.
- Match purchase orders, invoices, and delivery notes.
- Prepare and run weekly supplier payment runs.
- Reconcile supplier statements and resolve discrepancies.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date accounts payable records.
- Respond to supplier and internal queries professionally.
Finance Officer Development (Learning & Support Duties)
- Assist in preparing journals, accruals, and prepayments.
- Support month-end close activities under supervision.
- Contribute to the preparation of management accounts, including variance analysis.
- Assist with balance sheet reconciliations.
- Provide support in budget monitoring and financial reporting.
- Gain exposure to VAT returns and compliance processes.
- Learn to use finance systems, reporting tools, and Excel for analysis.
General
- Work collaboratively with colleagues across finance and other departments.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to GDPR and financial regulations.
- Participate fully in training, mentoring, and study leave to support AAT qualification progress.
- Undertake other ad hoc duties as directed to support the finance team.
Person Specification - Essential
- Strong interest in pursuing a career in finance and accountancy.
- Willingness to study for AAT qualifications (Levels 2–4).
- High level of attention to detail
- Good numeracy and IT skills, particularly MS Excel.
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel (spreadsheets, formulas, and basic data analysis).
- Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team
- Organised, with the ability to manage time and prioritise tasks.
- Self-motivated, proactive, and keen to learn.
- Commitment to confidentiality and handling sensitive information appropriately.
Desirable
- Previous work experience in an office or finance environment.
- Knowledge of basic double-entry bookkeeping principles.
- Familiarity with finance/accounting software.
30- 35 hours per week, Mon to Fri 9am to 4.30pm (30 min lunch) with study leave within these hours
Salary NMW dependent upon age
On site parking Available