Main Responsibilities:

• Process monthly payroll for employees, ensuring accurate and timely payments.
• Calculate and process statutory payments, such as sick pay, maternity pay, and holiday pay.
• Maintain employee records, including starters, leavers, and any changes to personal information.
• Assist with the preparation and reconciliation of PAYE, NIC, and pension contributions.
• Support the accounts team with data entry, invoicing, and general bookkeeping duties.
• Liaise with HR and other departments to ensure smooth payroll and accounting processes.
• Handle employee queries related to payroll and provide timely resolutions.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding employee financial information.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven experience in payroll processing and general accounting duties.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
• Proficiency in using payroll software (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks, or similar).
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and calculations.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• CIPP qualification or AAT qualification is advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a payroll or accounts assistant role.
• Experience working with various payroll systems and accounting software.
• Familiarity with auto-enrolment pensions and processing pension contributions.
• Experience in a fast-paced environment, handling multiple tasks and priorities.

Pay Rates for Payroll & Account Assistants in Bournemouth:

According to job postings and salary surveys, the average pay rates for Payroll & Account Assistants in Bournemouth are:

• Entry-level positions: £18,000 to £22,000 per annum.
• Mid-level positions: £22,000 to £28,000 per annum.
• Experienced positions: £28,000 to £35,000 per annum.

Note: These pay rates are averages and may vary depending on the company, specific responsibilities, and the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

The Importance of Hiring the Right Payroll & Account Assistant

As a business owner or manager in Bournemouth, ensuring you have the right support staff is crucial to the smooth running and success of your company. One key role that can significantly impact this is that of the payroll and account assistant. This multifaceted position requires a unique blend of skills, attention to detail, and reliability to handle your business’s financial matters efficiently.

Hiring the right person for this role is vital as they will be responsible for managing sensitive financial information, processing payroll, and assisting with various accounting tasks. A skilled and trustworthy payroll and account assistant can streamline your business operations, maintain compliance with legal requirements, and provide valuable support to your finance team.

Key Responsibilities of a Payroll & Account Assistant

Before embarking on the recruitment process, it’s essential to understand the key responsibilities associated with this role. While specific duties may vary depending on the size and structure of your organization, some common tasks include:

1. Processing payroll: Calculating and processing employee salaries, bonuses, and deductions; ensuring timely and accurate payments; maintaining payroll records.
2. Managing employee benefits: Administering employee benefits such as pension plans, health insurance, and vacation time; ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
3. Assisting with accounting tasks: Supporting the finance team with data entry, reconciliations, invoicing, and expense management.
4. Maintaining financial records: Keeping accurate and up-to-date records of financial transactions, payroll data, and employee information.
5. Providing customer service: Responding to employee inquiries regarding payroll, benefits, and other financial matters; liaising with external stakeholders such as HMRC and pension providers.

Essential Skills and Qualities to Look for in a Payroll & Account Assistant

When recruiting a payroll and account assistant in Bournemouth, it’s crucial to look for candidates who possess the necessary skills and qualities to excel in this role. Key attributes to consider include:

1. Strong numerical and analytical skills: The ability to work accurately with numbers, perform calculations, and analyze financial data is essential.
2. Attention to detail: Tasks in payroll and accounting require a high level of accuracy and precision, so candidates should demonstrate meticulous attention to detail.
3. Proficiency with relevant software: Familiarity with payroll software, accounting programs, and Microsoft Office applications is highly desirable.
4. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills: The ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, employees, and external stakeholders is crucial for building positive relationships and providing high-quality service.
5. Trustworthiness and discretion: This role involves handling sensitive financial information, so candidates must be trustworthy and able to maintain strict confidentiality.
6. Adaptability and willingness to learn: With changing regulations and evolving business needs, a payroll and account assistant should be adaptable and open to continuous learning.

Attracting Top Talent: Crafting a Compelling Job Description

To attract high-caliber candidates for your payroll and account assistant role, it’s essential to create a clear and compelling job description. It should provide an overview of your company, key responsibilities, and required qualifications.

When drafting your job description, highlight the unique benefits and opportunities your company offers, such as competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a positive work culture. This will help your position stand out in Bournemouth’s job market and encourage top talent to apply.

Include preferred qualifications, such as relevant degrees or professional certifications, in the job description. If your company uses specific software tools, mention these to ensure candidates are aware of technical requirements.

Leveraging Local Recruitment Channels

Once you have crafted a compelling job description, it’s time to begin the recruitment process. Bournemouth offers various local recruitment channels to help reach potential candidates, including:

1. Online job boards: Websites such as Indeed, Reed, and CV-Library are popular for job seekers in Bournemouth. Posting your job advertisement on these platforms can help you reach a wide audience.
2. Local newspapers and publications: Advertising in local newspapers, such as Bournemouth Echo, can effectively target job seekers in the area.
3. Recruitment agencies: Engaging local recruitment agencies specializing in finance and accounting roles can access a pool of qualified candidates and streamline the hiring process.
4. Social media: Utilizing social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter can help you reach a diverse range of candidates while showcasing your company culture and values.
5. Employee referrals: Encouraging your current staff to refer qualified candidates can be a cost-effective method to find talent, as referred employees often better understand your company culture and are likely a good fit.

The Selection Process: Interviews and Assessments

Once you receive applications for your payroll and account assistant position, it’s time to start the selection process. This typically involves reviewing resumes and cover letters to identify candidates who meet the essential criteria, followed by interviews and assessments to evaluate their suitability for the role.

When conducting interviews, it’s essential to ask questions that assess both technical skills and soft skills. For example, inquire about candidates’ experience with payroll processing and accounting software, as well as how they handle confidential information and manage competing priorities.

Consider incorporating assessments into your selection process, such as practical tests to evaluate candidates’ software proficiency or personality assessments to gain insights into their work style and cultural fit.

Making the Right Hiring Decision

After conducting interviews and assessments, it’s time to make your hiring decision. When evaluating candidates, consider their technical skills, experience, and potential for growth and contribution to your organization long-term.

Conduct reference checks to verify employment history and gather insights into candidates’ work performance and character. This step can help you make a more informed hiring decision.

Once you’ve identified your preferred candidate, extend a job offer outlining terms of employment, including salary, benefits, and any probationary periods. Be prepared to negotiate if necessary, ensuring any agreements are fair and aligned with industry standards.

Onboarding and Supporting Your New Payroll & Account Assistant

After securing your new hire, it’s crucial to provide a comprehensive onboarding program to help them integrate into your organization effectively. This should include an introduction to your company culture, policies, and procedures, as well as training on specific software or tools they will be using.Assign a mentor or buddy to provide guidance and support during their first few weeks. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions can help ensure they are settling in well and addressing any challenges they may face.

Investing in ongoing training and development opportunities for your payroll and account assistant will help them continue to grow in their role and demonstrate your commitment to their professional success.

Conclusion

Recruiting the right payroll and account assistant in Bournemouth is critical for ensuring the smooth running and financial success of your business. By understanding the key responsibilities of the role, identifying essential skills and qualities, and leveraging local recruitment channels, you can attract high-caliber candidates and make an informed hiring decision.

Investing time in the recruitment process and providing comprehensive onboarding and ongoing support will help you build a strong and effective finance team that contributes to your organization’s long-term success. With the right payroll and account assistant on board, you can drive your business forward with confidence, knowing that your financial matters are in capable hands.

FAQs – Find Payroll & Account Assistant Recruitment in Bournemouth with Team Recruiting Today

What qualifications are required for a Payroll & Account Assistant position in Bournemouth?

A: Typically, a Payroll & Account Assistant role requires a minimum of GCSE or equivalent qualifications in Math and English. Relevant experience in payroll or accounting is often preferred, and additional qualifications such as AAT or CIPP can be advantageous.

What are the primary responsibilities of a Payroll & Account Assistant?

A: A Payroll & Account Assistant is responsible for processing payroll, maintaining employee records, ensuring compliance with tax regulations, and assisting with general accounting tasks such as invoicing and reconciliations.

What is the average salary for a Payroll & Account Assistant in Bournemouth?

A: The average salary for a Payroll & Account Assistant in Bournemouth ranges from £20,000 to £30,000 per annum, depending on experience, qualifications, and the specific employer.

What skills are employers looking for in a Payroll & Account Assistant?

A: Employers seek candidates with strong numeracy skills, attention to detail, proficiency in payroll software and Microsoft Office, excellent organizational abilities, and confidentiality.

Are there opportunities for career progression in this role?

A: Yes, Payroll & Account Assistants can progress to roles such as Payroll Manager, Accounting Technician, or Financial Controller with further experience, qualifications, and training.