Paton & Co is an established and growing partnership of RICS Surveyors and Estate Agents with three offices spanning Northern England to the North of Scotland, providing specialist services across rural estate management, valuation, infrastructure, estate agency sales and lettings. As our business continues to grow, we are looking to recruit an experienced Finance & Bookkeeping Manager to lead our finance department and support the continued development of our finance department.
This is a key role within the business, responsible for overseeing the day-to-day bookkeeping and financial operations of both the partnership and a diverse portfolio of client entities, including rural estates, fishing interests and other managed clients. The successful candidate will ensure accurate financial records are maintained, management accounts and balance sheets are prepared, cashflow is effectively managed and financial information is delivered in a timely manner to support informed business decisions.
Reporting directly to the partners, the successful candidate will lead, support and develop a small team of bookkeepers while remaining hands-on in the day-to-day running of the finance function. They will work closely with colleagues and clients to ensure an efficient, accurate and professional bookkeeping service is delivered, while continually reviewing and improving financial systems, controls and processes as the business continues to grow.
The Role
- Lead, manage and develop a small team of bookkeepers.
- Oversee the day-to-day bookkeeping function for Paton & Co and a portfolio of client entities.
- Ensure accurate and timely processing of financial transactions and maintenance of accounting records.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, balance sheets and financial reports for the business and clients.
- Manage cashflow, budgets and banking for the business and clients.
- Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable processes.
- Prepare and submit VAT returns.
- Process payroll and ensure pension compliance.
- Complete bank, VAT, payroll and balance sheet reconciliations.
- Produce financial reports and profitability analysis to support the partners and clients.
- Liaise with partners, colleagues, clients and external accountants.
- Drive continuous improvement in bookkeeping processes, financial systems and internal controls.
- Ensure work is completed accurately and to agreed deadlines, providing guidance, training and support to the bookkeeping team.
Skills & Experience
- Significant experience in a senior bookkeeping or finance role.
- Experience managing or supervising a small bookkeeping team.
- Excellent knowledge of bookkeeping, including reconciliations, VAT, payroll and management accounts.
- Experience of producing balance sheets and management accounts.
- Experience of working with multiple entities or client accounts would be advantageous.
- Proficiency in QuickBooks Online and the Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with colleagues and clients.
Personal Attributes
- A proactive, hands-on approach with a willingness to get involved in all aspects of the finance department.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, support and develop a small team.
- Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
- Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise a varied workload.
- A positive, flexible and practical approach to problem solving.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to build relationships with colleagues, partners and clients.
- A commitment to delivering a high standard of client service.
Why Join Paton & Co
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced senior bookkeeper or finance professional looking for a varied and rewarding role within a growing rural professional practice. You will play a key role in leading our bookkeeping team, supporting the partners and delivering a high-quality, accurate and professional bookkeeping service to both the business and a diverse portfolio of estate, rural, fishing and commercial clients.
Location
Office based in Elgin, IV30
Salary
The salary will reflect experience, we provide a competitive overall package.
Please send a cover letter and your CV
Pay: £1.00-£2.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
Experience:
- finance/bookkeeping: 3 years (required)
- supervising: 2 years (required)
Language:
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
