Bookkeeper

Affinia is a UK Top 50 Accountancy firm and growing. Through successful acquisitions and organic growth, we have seen significant development within the last 18 months. In 2024 we launched ‘Affinia’ () which saw the coming together of LB Group and other like-minded firms across the East & South East of England to form a combined accounting, tax and business advisory firm. With a combined heritage spanning over 300 years, we have more than 400 accountancy professionals based in Stratford, Colchester, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Halstead, Harlow, Leigh on Sea, Orpington, Sidcup and Sutton. We advise businesses, government and public sector organisations and individuals in the UK and internationally across seven principal practice groups: Accountancy & Advisory, Tax and Planning, Audit Services, Corporate Finance, Digital Solutions, Payroll and Financial Planning. We have invested continuously in technology and gained in-depth knowledge across a broad range of markets, growing through acquisitions and private investment. We offer an exceptional service to our clients, with access to our sector experts to develop the strategy that will help them reach their goals. We keep a finger on the industry pulse, so our clients receive the best short to medium and long-term advice. Summary of role As a Bookkeeper / Cloud Accountant the focus shifts from learning to doing: from the skills required to handle basic bookkeeping tasks using Xero, to managing financial records and preparing reports. You’ll have had a few years’ experience and as such will be able to work independently under the guidance of the more senior members of your team. Client-facing, you’ll be a good listener and an excellent communicator. You’ll be able to handle most day-to-day client work independently and serve as a key point of contact for clients, while still benefitting from the support and guidance of your senior team. Working with your line manager and the wider team you will receive a structured training path to support your career progression at Affinia Ltd. Although it’s not a necessity, you will have the opportunity to study for AAT level 4 (or be qualified by experience.) We operate a hybrid working model, so you will split your time between working in your primary office location, visiting other offices and client sites when needed, from home when you’re able to and college visits when studying for your professional exams (if relevant.) We offer training and development via LinkedIn Learning, Croner-i, Mercia and Tolley’s (where relevant) to develop your hard and soft skills. In partnership with your line manager, you’ll craft a development plan that supports your career goals and aspirations. Key tasks and responsibilities: You will assist in delivering a range of accounting services to our clients whilst maintaining exceptional customer service. With support, you will work on a portfolio of clients, assisting with: -Bookkeeping: Entering financial transactions into cloud-based accounting software (e.g., Xero). -Management Reporting: Preparing reports, such as income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. -Client Support: Communicating with clients, answering their questions, and providing support. -Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving issues in the cloud accounting system. -Data Analysis: Analysing financial data to identify trends and pattern -Learning and Development: Continuously learning and developing skills in cloud bookkeeping and related accounting software -Collaboratively working with other Service Lines within our group -Additional responsibilities as and when identified in association with expectations of the role. Professional Skills / Qualifications -Ideally AAT qualified and started/ready to start further studies -Solid bookkeeping experience ideally in a practice environment -Experience in cloud-based accounting software desirable but not essential -Knowledge of basic accounting principles and financial statements -A degree isn’t essential but may be advantageous (e.g. in Accounting, Finance, Business, Data Science)-A-levels (or equivalent) in Maths and/or English may be advantageous but are not essential -A minimum of 5 GCSEs (Level 5 and above), which must include Maths and English Language -Have clear written and spoken communication -Strong IT skills, with experience of Microsoft Office products -Enjoy working with people -Enjoy learning both formally and ‘on the job’ At Affinia, our culture is driven by ambition and a commitment to positively impact all the communities we serve. We are dedicated to the success, development, and wellbeing of our colleagues, helping them achieve their goals and seize the opportunities that come with our growth. Alongside a flexible and inclusive work environment, we offer the following core benefits: 21 days holiday (FTE) plus Bank Holidays (Sept-Aug). Opportunity to purchase 3 extra days holiday per year Full study support including tuition fees and paid study days Professional membership support Auto enrolment Pension Scheme with True Potential Death in Service Paycare – claim money back for Dental / Optical / Professional Therapies Agile/Hybrid Working Policy Dress for your Diary Policy Affinia is a flexible business which has embraced a hybrid working model where our colleagues enjoy a mix of home and office working. We welcome applications from people looking for flexible and agile roles and we are happy to explore you preferred working patterns as part of your application. Affinia is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is unequivocal: we do not tolerate discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, or sexual orientation. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation that actively promotes equality of opportunity for all, valuing the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates, and selection for roles is based solely on individual merit.