Finance Assistant – 9 Month Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover)

About the role

Our client, a well‑established organisation in St Albans, is looking for a Finance Assistant to cover a 9‑month maternity leave. Reporting to the Head of Finance, you will support the day‑to‑day financial management of the business and work closely with colleagues across the company.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Head of Finance with the daily operation of the finance function.
• Maintain and update financial spreadsheets and records.
• Prepare monthly management reports, profit and loss schedules and budget assistance.
• Carry out daily and monthly bank reconciliations and process bank transfers.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns and process tax payments.
• Record payroll entries, payroll journals and pension payments.
• Process supplier invoices and liaise with suppliers.
• Support the annual audit and budget preparation.
• Produce financial analysis and reports using advanced Excel functions.

Required profile

• Previous experience in a Finance Assistant or similar accounting role.
• Strong knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting procedures.
• Experience with month‑end journals, reconciliations and management reporting.
• Experience preparing VAT returns and payroll administration.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.

Required skills

• Microsoft Excel – VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables and other advanced formulas.
• Bookkeeping and accounting software (experience beneficial).
• VAT return preparation.
• Payroll administration.
• Bank reconciliation.

What we offer

• Fixed‑term 9‑month contract (maternity cover).
• Salary up to £34,000 per annum, DOE.
• Monday‑to‑Friday, 9:00‑17:00 onsite working hours.