Assistant Accountant Buckinghamshire Alexander Steele is working with a leading international manufacturer within the food and beverage industry, who are seeking an Assistant Accountant to join their finance team on a permanent basis. This role will support the finance department in maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, and assisting with budgeting, VAT returns, and month-end processes. What’s on Offer: * Salary between £40,000 - £45,000 (DOE) * 28 days holiday bank holidays * Private medical care * Pension scheme * Monday to Friday, office-based (some flexibility available) Responsibilities: * Maintain accurate financial records, ensuring transactions are correctly recorded in the accounting system. * Perform bank reconciliations and investigate discrepancies between records and statements. * Support the preparation of monthly accruals, prepayments, intercompany reconciliations, and fixed asset register updates. * Prepare and submit VAT returns (including Intrastat and EC Sales Lists) across multiple regions. * Assist with month-end reporting, weekly cash flow forecasting, and budget support. * Reconcile general ledger accounts and ensure accuracy of financial data. * Support internal and external audit requirements, providing necessary documentation. * Process sales orders, cash postings, and customer queries while maintaining database integrity. * Work collaboratively with finance and operations teams to improve efficiency and reporting accuracy. * Identify and support process improvement initiatives within the finance function. Background Experience: * Part Qualified ACCA/CIMA or fully qualified AAT. * Minimum 3 years’ accounting experience, ideally within a manufacturing or FMCG environment. * Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., D365, SAP, Oracle) and strong Excel skills. * Sound understanding of VAT, financial controls, and compliance requirements. * Excellent communication and organisational skills, with strong attention to detail. * Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines. * Collaborative team player with a proactive and improvement-focused mindset