Experienced Bookkeeper
Closing date: Monday 31 March 2025
Job Title: Experienced Bookkeeper
Location: Berwick upon Tweed with the option to work flexibly/hybrid
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About Us:
Greaves West & Ayre is an Independent Chartered Accountancy firm that has been advising and supporting clients across the UK for over 100 years. With offices in the Northeast of England and East Lothian, we are proud to have provided specialist advice to families and businesses across the generations. We provide a broad range of bookkeeping, accounting, auditing, tax, VAT and advisory services to a diverse portfolio of clients. We have a reputation for excellence and a commitment to delivering the highest standard of service, we are seeking an experienced Bookkeeper/VAT Assistant to join our dynamic team.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Bookkeeper to join our team, specializing in commercial and agricultural financial management. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bookkeeping, VAT compliance, and financial record-keeping, with a keen understanding of the unique financial needs within the commercial and agricultural industries.
As a Bookkeeper within our team, your duties will include assisting in the preparation of VAT returns and other statutory financial statements, processing records to management account stage and liaising directly with clients to assist in set up and training on Cloud Accounting software
We are proud of our reputation for ongoing development. This role provides the opportunity to coach and develop other members of the team and enable them to grow their knowledge, experience, and confidence.
Key Responsibilities:
- VAT Compliance & Returns – Preparing and submitting accurate VAT returns in line with HMRC regulations.
- Bookkeeping & Accounts Management – Maintaining financial records, processing invoices, and managing ledgers.
- Bank Reconciliations –Reconciling bank statements, and ensuring financial accuracy.
- Financial Reporting – Producing detailed financial reports, including profit & loss statements and balance sheets.
- Liaising with HMRC – Handling VAT queries and ensuring compliance with tax regulations.
Key Requirements:
- Experience: Minimum of 3+ years’ experience in a similar role, ideally within an accountancy practice or professional services firm and with knowledge of Making VAT Digital
- Experience in Commercial & Agricultural Accounting: Strong knowledge of financial practices in these sectors is an advantage
- VAT Expertise: Proven experience in handling VAT returns and compliance.
- Bookkeeping Qualifications: Whilst formal Qualifications are not necessary , AAT, or equivalent certification would be an advantage.
- Ability to Work Independently & Meet Deadlines: A proactive and organized approach to workload management with the ability to work largely unsupervised and as part of a team
- Client-Focused: Proven track record in managing client relationships, delivering high-quality service.
- Client Set Up and Training- Proficient in the use of Cloud Accounting systems such as Xero ,supporting clients in initial systems set up and training.
- Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to report clearly to clients and colleagues.
- Attention to Detail: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with high attention to detail and accuracy.
- IT Skills: Proficiency in Accounting Software – ( Xero ,Sage, Farmplan, Quickbooks, Autoentry would all be advantageous.) and MS Office Suite, particularly Excel.
Why Join Us?
- Professional Development: Access to continuous learning and clear career progression opportunities.
- Collaborative Environment: Be part of a supportive and high-performing team in a thriving firm.
- Diverse Client Base: Opportunity to work with a variety of clients across different industries.
- Work-Life Balance: We offer a flexible working environment, ensuring a healthy work-life balance for our employees.
- Competitive Package: Competitive salary with an enhanced overtime rate, pension scheme, death in service and other benefits.
A role at GWA will enable you to achieve the lifestyle and career ambitions you are looking for.
How to Apply: If you are a driven and experienced Bookkeeper looking to take the next step in your career, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role to p.groom@gwayre.co.uk
Closing date: 31st March 2025
Closing date: Monday 31 March 2025
