Bookkeeper

Sumer Group Holdings Limited; Colchester; Hybrid; GBP 28,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading financial services firm in Colchester seeks an experienced Bookkeeper to manage financial records and client relationships. You will be responsible for processing transactions, preparing VAT returns, and using accounting software like Xero. Candidates should have a strong bookkeeping background and be comfortable working with clients. The role offers competitive pay, opportunities for professional development, and a flexible work-life balance.

Benefits

Flexible working hours

Study support for AAT qualification

36 days holiday including bank holidays

Life Assurance up to 4x salary

Mental health support access

Qualifications

• Experienced bookkeeper with solid accounting software knowledge.
• Comfortable working on client premises and handling quarterly VAT returns.
• Keen to learn and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Responsibilities

• Process and maintain accurate financial transactions and records.
• Prepare and submit VAT returns related to clients.
• Assist clients with accounting systems as needed.

Skills

Understanding of accounting software

Client relationship management

Bank reconciliation

VAT returns preparation

Experience with Xero

Education

AAT qualification (or willingness to pursue)

Tools

Xero

Dext Prepare

Job description

Bookkeeper

Department: Business Outsourcing

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Colchester

Compensation: £28,000 - £30,000 / year

Description

We’re looking for an experienced and enthusiastic Bookkeeper to join our team at Scrutton Bland, ideally within our Colchester office, to undertake all aspects of bookkeeping.

Applications are welcome from both full time and part time candidates with a minimum commitment of at least 22.5 hours per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Process and maintain accurate financial transactions and records
• Processing accounts payable and accounts receivable
• Performing bank reconciliations
• Prepare and submit VAT returns
• Ability to use relevant accounting systems including Xero.
• Dext Prepare experience would also be beneficial.
• Experience in preparing Management Accounts would be desirable but not essential.

You’ll work closely with clients, so building strong, professional relationships will be a key part of your role. This means being confident in responding to queries, comfortable visiting client sites when needed and always delivering service with clarity and care.

What We’re Looking For

We’d love to hear from you if you’re:

• An experienced bookkeeper with a solid understanding of accounting software
• Comfortable working with clients in their premises and be able to set up and maintain bookkeeping and quarterly VAT returns
• Confident in assisting clients with their accounting systems
• Able to work to tight deadlines and deal with enquiries promptly, confidentially and courteously
• Keen to learn, grow and contribute to a collaborate, forward thinking team

And In Return?

• Salary between £28,000-30,000 per annum, depending on experience
• The opportunity to study for your AAT qualification fully funded, with study support provided
• Flexible working alongside a culture that promotes work life balance
• Commitment to continued learning & development
• 36 days holiday (including 8 bank holidays and 3 days Christmas closure)
• Option to purchase a further 5 days
• Life Assurance up to 4x salary and contribution towards the Firm’s pension scheme
• Access to mental health support
• Employee health and wellbeing program
• Regular social and informal events within the organisation

Every new team member will experience a full induction and training programme where you will get up to speed on our systems, processes, and ways of working.