Accountant (Fixed Term Contract - 3 Months)
St Albans / Hybrid (as required)
3 days per week - Fixed Term Contract (3 Months)
Day-rate £300/day
Role Summary
We are seeking an experienced and hands‑on Accountant to join our Finance team on a 3-month fixed term contract to provide additional support during the annual audit process and wider finance activity. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the preparation of audit deliverables, strengthening financial controls and assisting the Finance team with key accounting activities during a busy period. This role requires a proactive individual who can quickly understand processes, work independently and support multiple priorities in a fast‑paced professional services environment.
Key Responsibilities
* Coordinate and prepare information required for the external audit process
* Own and maintain audit request trackers
* Gather supporting documentation and respond to auditor queries
* Prepare audit schedules and reconciliations
* Liaise with internal stakeholders to obtain information efficiently
* Support delivery of a smooth and timely year‑end audit process
Financial Control & Reconciliations
* Prepare and review balance sheet reconciliations
* Investigate and resolve reconciling items
* Review accounting entries and ensure supporting documentation is maintained
* Assist with maintaining strong financial controls and process documentation
* Support review and cleanup of historical balance sheet items where required
Month-End & Reporting Support
* Assist with month‑end close activities
* Support preparation of journals, accruals and prepayments
* Provide analysis and commentary where required
* Assist with management reporting and ad hoc financial analysis
Process Improvement
* Identify opportunities to improve reporting efficiency and control processes
* Support documentation and standardisation of finance procedures
* Assist with ad hoc finance projects and process enhancements
Person Specification
Essential
* Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or qualified by experience with strong relevant background
* Previous experience supporting external audits
* Strong balance sheet reconciliation experience
* Excellent attention to detail and analytical capability
* Strong Excel skills including:
* Pivot tables
* SUMIFS/XLOOKUP
* Data manipulation and analysis
* Ability to work independently and quickly understand new environments
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
* Experience of year‑end audit preparation and audit liaison
Desirable
* Experience within professional services or legal sector environments
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