Job Title Assistant Accountant
Role Type Full time – Permanent
Job Location Billingshurst, West Sussex
Reports to Finance Business Partner
The Company
From day one, Thakeham has been driven by a clear vision: to transform the way people think about new-built developments.
Over 20 years later, that ethos is still very much alive, reflected in our numerous awards and reputation in the sector. Today, Thakeham employs close to 250 people and has a forecasted revenue of £199 million in 2024/25.
An infrastructure-led community creator and strategic land promoter, Thakeham is committed to partnerships, innovation and creating amazing places to live and work. We are industry-leading in sustainability and biodiversity. We were one of the first to introduce Zero Bills homes in partnership with Octopus Energy.
We pride ourselves on our 'Infrastructure first' approach, ensuring communities release the benefits of new development at the outset, rather than later in the process. We deliver social, affordable and retirement housing for a wide range of housing associations and local authorities.
People are Thakeham's most important asset, and this is reflected in the way we operate. We are proud to be listed in the Top 100 Best Large Companies to Work For 2024.
Our people enjoy excellent rewards and working conditions in an exciting and growing business. We offer exciting career opportunities, and are keen to develop, guide and support our employees, regardless of what stage they are in their careers.
We value diversity and encourage people to bring their full authentic selves to work. A Gold Armed Forces Covenant signatory and supporter of armed force's charity Building Heroes, Thakeham operates a Talent for Development outreach campaign for military veterans and college leavers.
Work and fun should not be mutually exclusive and Thakeham offers a range of social events such as quiz nights, BBQs and all staff parties. We run informal lunch and learns and take on charity challenges such as the Housebuilder Challenge. We encourage people to volunteer in their communities, offering two paid days per year to do so. Where roles allow, our summer hours policy in June, July and August allows people to enjoy longer weekends with their loved ones. A flexible approach to working is available all year round.
At Thakeham we build communities, together.
The Department
The Assistant Account role will support the Pre-development area of the business alongside the wider finance team.
The Pre-development division of the business secures land and progresses Thakeham's portfolio of sites through to achieving planning consent for residential-led developments, as well as providing consultancy services to other Group companies.
The Job Role
* Support month-end processes including journals, variance review, and forecasting
* Lead monthly CVR updates, ensuring deadlines are met and reviews scheduled
* Monitor invoice and PO workflows in COINS, ensuring timely approvals and payments
* Act as first point of contact for land spend analysis queries
* Oversee Gowlings quarterly invoicing, providing weekly payment updates
* Provide weekly analysis of aged debt on the pre-development ledger
* Drive report automation and alignment with departmental and group reporting requirements
* Handle budget holder queries, supporting effective cost management
* Ensure accuracy and upkeep of pre-development COINS data and the finance calendar
* Assist with budgeting of project and overhead costs
* Manage finance sections of PQQ submissions
This list is not exhaustive. Tasks will be allocated to reflect increasing levels of development and experience.
What We're Looking For
* A strong interest in accounting and finance
* Excellent attention to detail and numerical accuracy
* Good organisational and time management skills
* Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
* Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn
* Commitment to studying towards a recognised accounting qualification (e.g., AAT, ACCA, CIMA)
The Benefits
* Competitive salary
* Salary sacrifice car scheme
* Annual holiday allowance 26 days increasing to 27 after 3yrs service and 28 after 5yrs service (plus bank holidays)
* Life assurance
* Private medical insurance
* Health screening
* Pension scheme
* Bonus scheme
* Flexible working hours in a modern office environment / Working from Home Policy
* Excellent development and progression opportunities
* Company Social events
Plus, a whole range of other employee benefits that we can tell you all about, our employees are rewarded for their performance, attitude and results.