Junior Accounts Assistant

We are currently seeking a Junior Accounts Assistant to join the team at Gates of Harlow.

The Junior Accounts Assistant will support the finance team with day-to-day accounting and administrative tasks, helping to maintain accurate financial records and ensure the smooth running of the finance function. The role will involve processing invoices, maintaining ledgers, reconciling accounts, assisting with month-end procedures, and responding to finance-related queries from colleagues, customers, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with purchase invoices, timely entry into the accounting system.

• Assist with supplier statement reconciliations and resolve invoice or payment queries.

• Raise sales invoices and credit notes, allocate customer receipts, and support credit control activity where required.

• Maintain purchase ledger and sales ledger records, ensuring transactions are recorded accurately and promptly.

• Assist in the company’s existing and new insurance claims.

• Assist with maintaining the Motor Insurance Database.

• Assist with month-end and year-end procedures, including accruals, prepayments, journals, and supporting schedules.

• Support the preparation of VAT returns and ensure records are maintained for compliance purposes.

• Provide information and documentation for audits.

• Respond professionally to finance queries from colleagues, customers, and suppliers.

• Carry out general finance administration and support ad hoc tasks or projects as required.

Skills and Experience

• Basic understanding of bookkeeping, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and reconciliations.

• Good numerical skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

• Confident using Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Qualifications

• GCSEs or equivalent in English and Math's are desirable.

• Further study towards an accounting qualification will be supported and encouraged.

Personal Attributes

• Reliable, proactive, and willingness to learn.

• Methodical approach to work with strong attention to detail.

• Team player who can also work independently when required.

• Positive attitude and commitment to providing a helpful finance service.

• Ability to work calmly under pressure and manage competing priorities.

• Interest in professional development and further study.

Working Relationships

The Junior Accounts Assistant will work closely with the Accounts team and may liaise with colleagues across the wider business, as well as customers and suppliers.

Salary: Negotiable depending on experience

Gates are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, disability or other characteristics. Our hiring decisions are made using an unbiased approach and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and candidates to feel welcome.

Reasonable adjustments: All interviews assess the skills of the job itself and should not put you at a disadvantage of your disability/condition. If you require reasonable adjustment, please let us know so we can accommodate you. To do this, please include your reasonable adjustment requirements during the application stage or contact the person who offered you an interview. You do not have to disclose your condition when you are applying for a role with us. The Equality Act 2010 defines a disabled person as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on their ability to do daily activities.