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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Accounts Assistant

💰 $42,000 – $58,000 per year

AccountingFinanceAccountsBookkeepingAdministration

🎯 Role Definition

An Accounts Assistant supports the finance and accounting team by maintaining accurate financial records, processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and assisting with month-end and year-end financial activities. This role is critical in ensuring the accuracy, efficiency, and compliance of financial operations. The position requires a high level of attention to detail, numerical proficiency, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced finance environment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Accounting Clerk
  • Finance Intern
  • Administrative Assistant
  • Junior Bookkeeper

Advancement To:

  • Accounts Payable Specialist
  • Accounts Receivable Specialist
  • Assistant Accountant
  • Financial Analyst

Lateral Moves:

  • Payroll Assistant
  • Procurement Assistant

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Assist in the preparation and maintenance of financial records, ledgers, and journals.
  • Process supplier invoices, ensuring all transactions are properly coded and authorized.
  • Reconcile bank statements and monitor company cash flow to maintain financial accuracy.
  • Support month-end and year-end closing processes, including journal entries and accruals.
  • Prepare and post journal entries to the general ledger.
  • Verify, allocate, and reconcile accounts payable and receivable transactions.
  • Assist in preparing VAT returns, tax filings, and other statutory reports.
  • Maintain accurate records of financial documents and ensure proper filing and documentation.
  • Support audit preparation by providing required schedules and supporting evidence.
  • Prepare expense reports and verify compliance with company reimbursement policies.
  • Assist in the processing of employee timesheets, payroll data, and related deductions.
  • Track and manage fixed assets, depreciation schedules, and asset register updates.
  • Monitor outstanding invoices and follow up on overdue accounts.
  • Support budgeting and forecasting activities by compiling financial data and reports.
  • Prepare reports on accounts payable, receivable, and other accounting metrics for management review.
  • Ensure compliance with company accounting policies and relevant financial regulations.
  • Liaise with vendors, customers, and other departments to resolve billing and payment discrepancies.
  • Maintain confidentiality and security of financial information at all times.
  • Assist in implementing process improvements to enhance accounting efficiency and accuracy.
  • Provide general administrative and accounting support to the finance department as needed.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with financial data analysis to identify trends and variances.
  • Support finance team during audits, tax season, and system upgrades.
  • Participate in developing process documentation and standard operating procedures.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure data accuracy across systems.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency with accounting software such as QuickBooks, Xero, Sage, or Oracle.
  • Strong understanding of double-entry bookkeeping and accounting principles.
  • Advanced Excel skills, including pivot tables, formulas, and financial modeling.
  • Experience in accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger reconciliation.
  • Knowledge of VAT, tax preparation, and financial compliance requirements.
  • Ability to manage and analyze large volumes of financial data.
  • Familiarity with ERP systems and digital financial reporting tools.
  • Competence in preparing journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements.
  • Understanding of audit preparation and internal control procedures.
  • Strong numerical and data entry accuracy.

Soft Skills

  • Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy in financial data handling.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • High degree of integrity and commitment to confidentiality.
  • Problem-solving and analytical thinking capabilities.
  • Time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
  • Adaptability to changing financial systems and processes.
  • Customer service orientation when interacting with vendors or clients.
  • Proactive attitude toward process improvement and professional development.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:
Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration

Preferred Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Accounting
  • Finance
  • Business Administration
  • Economics

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:
1 – 3 years of experience in an accounting or finance support role

Preferred:
Experience in a corporate finance department, public accounting firm, or shared service center environment with exposure to ERP systems and financial reporting processes.

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