Accounts Assistant - Practice

Accounts Assistant Huddersfield Competitive Salary + Benefits About the Company W Talent Finance is a specialist recruitment partner dedicated to placing high-calibre accounting professionals across both practice and commerce & industry markets worldwide. With a deep understanding of the finance landscape, we support clients ranging from leading professional services firms to established regional practices and multi-service professional groups, delivering tailored talent solutions that drive business performance. We are partnering with a well-established, multi-service accountancy and professional services firm with a strong regional presence and an excellent reputation for delivering trusted advice to businesses and individuals. With over 220 employees across 11 offices throughout Yorkshire and Derbyshire, the business provides a comprehensive range of professional services, including accountancy, financial services, corporate finance and wider business advisory support. The organisation promotes a people-focused environment built around collaboration, professionalism and integrity. It places strong emphasis on creating a supportive and inclusive culture where individuals are encouraged to develop their skills, take ownership of their work and progress within an established and approachable team. The Role As an Accounts Assistant, you will join an established accountancy practice, providing a combination of accounting and administrative support to the wider accounts team. You will assist with the preparation of annual accounts, bookkeeping, VAT returns, bank reconciliations and other accounting duties, gaining exposure to a broad range of services provided to the firm's clients. Alongside your day-to-day responsibilities, you will have the opportunity to develop your technical knowledge and practical experience while working towards an AAT apprenticeship. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career within accountancy, develop a strong foundation of accounting skills and gain valuable experience within a reputable professional services environment. The role offers structured learning, professional study support and the opportunity to develop under the guidance of experienced colleagues. Key Responsibilities Assist with the preparation of annual accounts for a varied client baseUndertake bookkeeping duties, ensuring financial records are accurate and up to dateAssist with the preparation of VAT returns and supporting documentationComplete bank reconciliations and investigate discrepancies where requiredSupport the accounts team with a range of accounting functions and financial reporting activitiesDevelop an understanding of the processes involved in preparing a full set of financial accountsProvide administrative support to colleagues, supervisors and managers across the practiceFollow instructions from supervisors and managers, seeking guidance where necessaryMaintain accurate financial records and ensure client information is handled confidentiallyAssist with the organisation, filing, archiving and maintenance of client documentationManage incoming and outgoing post and provide general office administration supportAnswer incoming telephone calls professionally and direct enquiries to the appropriate colleaguesRespond to colleagues and clients in a courteous and professional mannerFollow relevant policies, procedures and money laundering regulationsParticipate in training and development activities, including working towards the AAT apprenticeshipSupport the wider team in meeting client deadlines and achieving business objectivesUndertake additional accounting and administrative duties as required About You An interest in accountancy and a genuine desire to build a career within an accountancy practiceStudying towards AAT, or keen to undertake an AAT apprenticeshipPrevious experience in an accounts or administrative role would be advantageous but is not essential, depending on the candidate's overall suitabilityStrong numerical skills with excellent attention to detailGood organisational skills and the ability to prioritise competing tasksExcellent time management skills and a willingness to learnStrong written and verbal communication skillsA professional and confident telephone mannerGood IT skills, with the ability to learn accounting software and other systemsStrong record-keeping skills and a methodical approach to workThe ability to follow instructions and work effectively under the guidance of experienced colleaguesA proactive attitude with a willingness to take responsibility and develop new skillsThe ability to handle confidential financial and client information appropriatelyA professional, courteous and team-focused approachCommitment to ongoing learning, professional development and completing relevant training What's on Offer Competitive salary, dependent on experience25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase up to 5 additional daysPension schemeHealth Cash Plan (Level 1)Life assurance at 4x salaryEye test supportAAT apprenticeship and professional study supportOngoing training, development and opportunities to build a career within accountancySocial events and staff engagement activitiesVolunteering opportunitiesStaff discounts on wills, lasting powers of attorney and residential mortgagesSupportive and collaborative working environmentOpportunity to gain hands-on experience across a broad range of accounting servicesThe chance to learn from experienced accounting professionals and develop long-term career prospects