Position Overview: We are looking for an Assistant Finance Manager to join our team on an initial six-month contract, with the potential for the role to become permanent. As an Assistant Finance Manager, you will work closely with the Cognito UK finance and leadership teams to support accurate financial reporting for the UK. This role will assist in driving a performance measurement culture to help grow Cognito UK's revenue and margin, and provides an excellent opportunity for a finance professional looking to develop their career in a fast-paced agency environment. Key Responsibilities: Financial and Accounting Assist in maintaining prime records of accounting for the UK Support the preparation of monthly management accounts, regional and main board packs Assist with month-end and year-end closes and journal entries, including reconciliation of balance sheet accounts, in conjunction with the wider finance team Support the drafting, review and processing of monthly UK payroll, including PAYE and pension administration Prepare and send client invoices and support inter-company invoicing Assist with UK accounts receivable responsibilities, including following up on collection of receivables Support the analysis and optimisation of WIP balances, revenue and production billings and intercompany revenue transfers Assist with quarterly/annual statutory accounting and taxation reporting (including but not limited to audits, annual returns, VAT and corporation tax) Commercial Finance Support the drafting and review of Statements of Work and client agreements Maintain client and job codes in Cognito's financial system Assist with analyses on staff utilisation and client profitability Skills and Experience Requirements: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience Demonstrable experience in a finance or accounting role Agency or professional services experience preferred but not required Part-qualified (AAT, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) desirable A solid foundation in financial and accounting principles Strong numerical and analytical skills, with the ability to present data clearly and concisely A working understanding of UK compliance requirements, including HMRC, VAT and basic employment tax Excellent attention to detail and accuracy Ability to manage and prioritise tasks effectively Strong communication skills, both written and verbal An ethical business mentality A collaborative team player with enthusiasm, motivation and commitment Eagerness to learn and develop within the role Organisational Relationships Work as an integral part of the finance team in both the local office and with international colleagues as necessary Support UK management and the UK MD on financial matters Collaborate with senior account leads on client and contract-related issues as directed Our identity Cognito is a full-service communications agency working at the intersection of finance, technology and the climate transition. We have a strong international footprint with offices across the U.S., Europe and Asia Pacific. Our strength is in our specialization and our clients trust our deep knowledge and expertise. We work with leading global brands and innovative start-ups. Our global team is deeply connected across international markets, collaborating with journalists, influencers, clients, experts and partners. We help clients strengthen their reputation, and drive business growth by harnessing the power of storytelling and strategic use of earned, paid, shared and owned communications channels. Continuous learning and curiosity keep us at the forefront of the latest developments, which gives us an edge to cultivate knowledge when working with our clients to communicate what is next. This starts with our people and our values: We celebrate difference by bringing together the best talent from varied backgrounds, tied together by an innate intellectual curiosity to connect meaningfully. Through our drive to champion excellence, we strive to lead the way to a connected, sustainable and responsible future. We are hungry to understand the problems organizations face. We are focused on driving business outcomes for our global clients. We are creative and agile – leading to smart strategies and exceptional work.