Assistant Financial Accountant £35,000 - £40,000 | Near Christchurch - on-site Ideal first move from practice, strong statutory focus, tax training provided. Are you an assistant accountant currently in practice and thinking about your first move into industry? This is a superb opportunity to join a privately owned, multi‑entity group in a technical finance function, where the focus is firmly on statutory accounting and financial reporting. You'll build deep, hands-on experience preparing statutory accounts while being supported and trained in the tax elements of the role as you develop. The role Working closely with the Financial Reporting Manager, Finance Manager and CFO, you'll play a key role in the preparation of statutory accounts across the Group, supporting year-end and compliance activity and gaining exposure to group reporting and complex accounting matters. Key responsibilities include: Assisting with the preparation of statutory accounts for c entities under UK GAAP (and IFRS where applicable) Preparing robust working papers to support group and entity‑level accounts Balance sheet reconciliations and review of accounting records Supporting group and intercompany accounting across a multi‑entity structure Assisting with financial reporting and ad‑hoc technical projects Gaining exposure to corporate and personal tax calculations, with full training and support provided This is a genuinely technical accounting role, ideal for someone who enjoys working with standards, structure and detail. Why this role works for a practice first‑mover Clear emphasis on statutory accounting and reporting A natural step on from accounts preparation and year-end work in practice. Chance to see the end‑to‑end story in industry, not just the final output Tax is not expected on day one - you'll be developed over time. Visible role working closely with senior finance leaders, including the CFO About you You could be ACA or ACCA part‑qualified, AAT qualified or qualified by experience for this role, ideally from practice. Strong grounding in statutory accounts preparation Good understanding of UK accounting principles Confident with Excel and working with detailed financial data Organised, detail‑focused and keen to deepen your technical knowledge An interest in moving into a broader industry finance role What's on offer Salary £35,000 - £40,000 depending on experience Study support for professional qualifications 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays Pension scheme and on-site parking Exposure to group accounting, statutory reporting and IFRS If you're in practice and looking for a high-quality, technically focused first move into industry, this role offers an excellent platform to build long-term career depth. What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays