Accounts Assistant

Position: Accounts Assistant Location – Bolton, Lancashire Salary £26000 - £28000 dependent on experience Permanent full time We are seeking a dedicated Accounts Assistant to provide a professional and timely accounting service, ensuring efficient management of invoices, expenses, and payments through the Purchase Ledger. The ideal candidate will ensure effective cash management, raise sales ledger invoices promptly, and recover aged debtors efficiently. You will also support the Finance Team in meeting month-end deadlines and ensuring accurate forecasts. This role is based at our Finance Department in Bolton, and you will be a key contributor to the provision of financial information, ensuring the smooth running of our financial operations. Responsibilities & Duties: * Follow up on outstanding company invoices. * Accurately maintain the Purchase Ledger, ensuring all payment deadlines are met. * Ensure suppliers are paid according to agreed terms or best practice. * Maintain good internal control over the Purchase Ledger function. * Investigate and resolve purchase ledger queries. * Reconcile supplier statements to purchase ledger accounts. * Manage the monthly closure of the Purchase Ledger, including payment control, credit control, management reports, and aged creditors. * Prepare payment batches and process payments through HSBC. * Complete monthly subcontractor’s tax returns. * Ensure timely scanning of supplier invoices. * Manage the "Invoices on Hold" and Query Log. * Record sales invoices, allocate receipts, and collect aged debtors. * Log weekly timesheets and ensure reporting deadlines are met. * Support weekly Cashflow Forecast. * Provide customer and supplier credit checks. * Conduct bank reconciliations. * Prepare and enter journals into Sage. * Assist in the preparation of management accounts and month-end duties, including reconciliations. * Manage petty cash. * Maintain strong customer service, building effective relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. * Ensure accurate preparation and processing of information for monthly accounts. * Uphold a high attention to detail and an organised approach to tasks. * Work effectively within a team, ensuring deadlines are met. * Achieve KPIs set by the Financial Director. * Perform any additional duties, as required, in line with the role. Qualifications, Knowledge, Experience & Skills: Essential: Proven experience in an Accounts Assistant role. Knowledge of computerised accounting systems, particularly SAGE Line 50. Proficient with MS Windows-based software packages such as Word, Excel, and email. Motivated and eager to develop as the business grows. Excellent attention to detail, methodical, and organised. Ability to work in a focused and efficient manner. Strong communication skills and ability to work well within a team. Desirable: AAT studier (though not essential)