Assistant Accountant in Chelmsford, East Of England

Chelmsford

permanent, full-time

£40,000 per annum

UK working eligibility only.

Working in Chelmsford, East Of England

Chelmsford, in Essex, is a vibrant and fast-growing city with a strong economy built around finance, public services, education, and retail. As the county town, it hosts major employers such as local government offices, NHS trusts, and national financial institutions. The city also has a growing tech and business services sector, supported by excellent connectivity via the A12 and regular rail services to London Liverpool Street. Chelmsford’s location makes it a key commuter hub while also supporting a strong local economy with jobs in manufacturing, construction, and logistics. The nearby Anglia Ruskin University drives education and research-related employment. For job seekers, Chelmsford offers varied opportunities across professional, technical, and public sectors. With continued investment in housing, infrastructure, and business space, Chelmsford combines modern career prospects with an appealing lifestyle and easy access to both London and the Essex countryside.

About Accountancy

Accountancy is one of the UK’s most established professional sectors, covering auditing, tax, payroll, and financial reporting. Roles include accounts assistants, bookkeepers, management accountants, and finance managers. Employers range from small practices to global firms, as well as in-house finance teams across every industry. Demand remains high for professionals with strong analytical skills and attention to detail. Career progression is supported by qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, and ICAEW, making accountancy a secure path with excellent earning potential.

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Part-Qualified Assistant Accountant to join a growing finance team within a dynamic hospitality and events environment. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious finance professional looking to further develop their career within a fast-paced, multifaceted business.

The successful candidate will support the day-to-day finance function, assist with month-end processes, and contribute towards continuous improvement across the department.

Key Responsibilities

Produce monthly management accounts packs
Reconcile balance sheet accounts
Prepare monthly cashflow forecasts
Perform and review bank reconciliations
Assist with month-end processes including accruals and prepayments
Analyse variances within management accounts and liaise with department heads to improve performance
Support the budgeting process and preparation of budget packs
Assist with the preparation of year-end working papers across group entities
Prepare VAT returns
Support monthly payroll processes
Assist with year-end routines and audit preparation
Contribute to finance-related projects and process improvements
Provide cover and support across the wider finance team where required
Produce KPI and financial performance reporting

Skills & Experience

Minimum 3 years’ experience within an accounts or finance role
AAT qualified or equivalent
Ideally studying towards ACCA or CIMA
Previous management accounts experience is essential
Strong systems and IT skills
Advanced Excel skills including Pivot Tables and VLOOKUPs
Experience with Sage 50 Accounts is desirable
Previous hospitality or EPOS system experience would be advantageous
Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
Ability to work to tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Confident communicator, able to build relationships across all levels of the business
Self-motivated, reliable, and proactive approach to work
Full driving licence and own transport preferred