Accounts & Audit Associate - #2185020

Role Purpose

To assist in the preparation of small-sized sets of accounts that sit within audited consolidated groups, or relate to audited groups, and form part of the AMS Audit accounts portfolio. The role also supports the audit teams on larger audit assignments, with the aim of gradually building experience, technical competence and independence in an audit environment. The role contributes to the timely, accurate and high-quality delivery of client work.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in preparing small-sized statutory accounts, including those within consolidated groups, to a high standard and within agreed deadlines and budgets.
• Support audit teams on larger audit assignments by completing allocated audit work, testing and working papers accurately, with clear and sufficient documentation.
• Prepare and update trial balances, lead schedules, journals and supporting workings, ensuring they reconcile to source records and the wider group position.
• Assist with the preparation of financial statement disclosures and related checklists in line with the relevant financial reporting framework (e.g. FRS 102 / FRS 105) and firm procedures.
• Apply the firm’s audit methodology, auditing standards (ISAs) and quality control procedures, escalating issues, errors and unusual items to the reporting line promptly.
• Respond to review points promptly and thoroughly, learning from feedback to improve the quality of future work.
• Communicate with clients and their staff to obtain information, explanations and records, and keep audit teams updated on outstanding items.
• Maintain accurate timesheets and keep audit and accounts files complete, organised and up to date in the firm’s systems.
• Comply with the firm’s policies on ethics, independence, confidentiality, data protection and anti-money laundering.
• Undertake ongoing training and development to progressively increase technical knowledge, responsibility and autonomy.

Key Relationships

• Internal: Audit teams (including seniors, managers and Associate Directors), the reporting line (Melissa Scobie and Chris Speakman) and other colleagues within the Manchester office
• External: Clients and their finance and accounting staff, including those within audited group structures

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

• Experience: Graduate-level or early-career experience in accountancy or audit (typically 0–2 years); previous exposure to practice, finance or an office environment is beneficial but not essential. A willingness to learn and take on increasing responsibility is expected.
• Technical skills: Sound understanding of basic accounting principles (double-entry, trial balances, journals and reconciliations); good Microsoft Excel and Word skills; ability to learn accounts production and audit software; developing knowledge of UK GAAP and auditing standards. Strong numeracy, attention to detail, organisation and time management; clear written and verbal communication; ability to work as part of a team and to meet deadlines.

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSEs (including Maths and English) and A Levels (or equivalent)
• Desirable: A relevant degree; progress towards, or willingness to study for, a professional accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA or AAT)

Performance Measures (Success Criteria)

Success in the role is measured through outputs, including:

• Accuracy and quality of accounts, audit working papers and schedules produced, with a reducing volume of review points over time
• Timely delivery of allocated work within agreed deadlines and time budgets
• Completeness and organisation of files, including timely completion of timesheets
• Prompt and thorough clearance of review points
• Positive feedback from audit teams and clients
• Progress in technical knowledge, independence and the range of work undertaken, as evidenced in regular reviews and training objectives

Benefits

• 23 Days Holiday
• Birthday off
• Annual bonus scheme
• Health cash plan after probation
• Company sick pay
• Enhanced parental pay policies
• Perkbox subscription
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Company pension scheme

AMS Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.