Role Summary
We are looking for an experienced Finance Officer to join our small finance team at our high street law firm in Basingstoke. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting the financial operations of the firm including managing daily finance transactions (accounts payable and receivable), supporting month and year end processes, compliance with regulatory requirements and effective financial controls, as well as supporting with short- and long-term financial planning.
Previous experience of working in a finance administration or officer role with strong experience of managing daily accounting independently is essential. You should have at least AAT Level 3 and be working towards further qualification.
Ideally you will have experience working within regulated environments with a good understanding of compliance and a high level of attention to detail.
Initially the role will support the Operational and Strategic Finance Managers with the daily accounts management of the firm, however we are looking for someone with the desire to progress their career with us and take on additional responsibility over a 2-3 year period.
If you think this is the role for you, we would love to hear from you.
Primary Duties
Financial Accounting
· Support the management of all accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions
· Daily bank reconciliations and banking
· Weekly cashflow and projected cashflow
· Weekly income
· Dealing with completions – CHAPS/BACS payments in and out and checking completion statements
· Processing payments and receipts using online banking, cheques and debit cards
· Assisting with the month end and year end close process
· Maintenance of an effective Credit Control system in the absence of the Operations Finance Manager
Compliance and Audit
· File Opening process – check Client Risk & Assessment Forms and ID have been completed in full and carry out AML checks if required.
· File Closure process – check Account ledgers are clear and complete the finance section of the file closure form.
· Support with ensuring compliance with accounting standards, tax regulations, and legal industry rules
· Prepare information as required for external auditors, accountants, and regulators
Budgeting and Forecasting
· Preparing financial reports (to include work in progress and billing) for senior management
· Work with the Finance Managers to track actual performance against budget
· Support the Strategic Finance Manager with firm wide budgets and financial planning
Client management and administration
· Deal with internal accounts queries and other finance related matters as required
· Taking payments over the phone and in person and dealing with client finance queries
· Administration support to the Finance team including filing and scanning as required
Required Skills
o Previous experience working in a finance administration or officer role with demonstratable experience of managing daily accounting independently
o Professional accounting qualification: AAT Level 2 or 3 as a minimum or, ILFM, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or currently studying towards.
o Experience of working in a regulated environment (Solicitors Accounts Rules or Legal sector is helpful but not essential)
o Strong organisational and time management skills
o Proactive with the ability to prioritise effectively
o High level of attention to detail/accuracy
o Strong written and verbal communication skills
o Good working knowledge of Excel, as well as Microsoft Office
o Experience of legal accounting software would be helpful but not essential
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. If you need any adjustments or support to ensure you can fully participate in our recruitment process please contact
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
* Additional leave
* Company pension
* Employee discount
* Enhanced maternity leave
* Enhanced paternity leave
* Sick pay
Application question(s):
* Do you have at least an AAT Level 3 qualification?
Experience:
* finance administration: 3 years (required)
Work Location: In person