Finance Assistant Tunbridge Wells

Here’s some information about finance assistants in Tunbridge Wells, formatted as requested:

Tunbridge Wells, a vibrant town in Kent, supports a diverse range of businesses, creating consistent demand for skilled finance assistants. These roles are crucial for the smooth financial operation of companies, from small local enterprises to larger organizations with a presence in the area.

What Does a Finance Assistant Do?

The specific responsibilities of a finance assistant in Tunbridge Wells will vary depending on the size and type of company. However, core duties generally include:

• Processing Invoices: Accurately handling both accounts payable (paying suppliers) and accounts receivable (managing customer payments). This involves verifying invoices, coding them correctly, and ensuring timely payment.
• Bank Reconciliations: Matching bank statements to internal records to identify discrepancies and ensure accurate cash management.
• Data Entry: Inputting financial data into accounting systems, maintaining accurate records, and generating reports.
• Expense Management: Processing employee expense claims, ensuring compliance with company policies, and maintaining accurate records.
• Credit Control: Chasing outstanding payments from customers, resolving invoice queries, and maintaining good relationships with clients.
• Payroll Support: Assisting with payroll processing, including calculating wages, deductions, and taxes. (This may be a more specialized role.)
• General Ledger Maintenance: Assisting with the maintenance of the general ledger, ensuring accurate and up-to-date financial records.
• Report Generation: Preparing financial reports, such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.
• Administrative Support: Providing general administrative support to the finance team, such as filing, photocopying, and answering phones.

Skills and Qualifications:

Employers in Tunbridge Wells typically look for candidates with the following:

• Education: A good standard of education, ideally with GCSEs in Maths and English. Some roles may require A-levels or a relevant vocational qualification.
• Experience: Previous experience in a finance or accounting role is often preferred, but entry-level positions are available for candidates with strong numerical skills and a willingness to learn.
• Software Proficiency: Experience with accounting software such as Sage, Xero, or QuickBooks is highly desirable. Strong Excel skills are essential.
• Attention to Detail: Accuracy is paramount in finance, so meticulous attention to detail is crucial.
• Communication Skills: Good written and verbal communication skills are necessary for interacting with colleagues, suppliers, and customers.
• Organizational Skills: The ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and work independently is important.

Job Market in Tunbridge Wells:

The demand for finance assistants in Tunbridge Wells is relatively stable, with opportunities arising in various sectors, including professional services, retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. Recruitment agencies specializing in finance and accountancy roles are often a good resource for finding suitable positions. Online job boards and company websites are also valuable sources of information.

Career Development:

A finance assistant role can be a stepping stone to more senior positions within the finance department. With experience and further qualifications, such as AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) or ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), individuals can progress to roles such as accounts payable clerk, accounts receivable clerk, or even assistant accountant.