Finance Assistant

About Us

We are an established hospitality catering company serving premium venues, corporate clients, and special events across London. Our head office team supports multiple catering operations, managing everything from intimate corporate lunches to large-scale event catering.

Role Overview

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop their finance career within the dynamic hospitality sector. You'll gain exposure to various aspects of financial management while supporting the day-to-day operations of a fast-paced catering business.

Key Responsibilities

• Process accounts payable and receivable efficiently
• Assist with monthly management accounts preparation
• Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions
• Support month-end and year-end procedures
• Handle supplier invoice processing and payment runs
• Process catering job costings and profitability analysis
• Manage event deposits and final payment reconciliation
• Handle staff expense claims and petty cash management
• Assist with inventory valuation and food cost analysis
• Support budget preparation for catering contracts
• Bank reconciliations and cash flow monitoring
• VAT return preparation and submission support
• Maintain customer credit control procedures
• Process payroll information and staff cost allocations
• Assist with audit preparations and queries

Essential Requirements

• AAT qualification (Level 2 minimum) or equivalent experience
• Minimum 2 years' experience in a finance assistant or bookkeeping role
• Proficiency in accounting software (Sage, Xero, or similar)
• Advanced Excel skills including pivot tables and VLOOKUP
• Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Professional communication skills, both written and verbal

Personal Attributes

• Proactive approach with ability to work independently
• Team player who thrives in a collaborative environment
• Adaptable and flexible attitude to varying workloads
• Interest in the hospitality and catering industry
• Discretion when handling confidential financial information
• Problem-solving mindset with analytical thinking

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with annual review
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Company pension scheme with employer contribution
• Professional development opportunities and training support
• Central London location with excellent transport links
• Friendly, supportive team environment
• Opportunity to gain diverse experience across multiple catering operations
• Staff discounts on company catering services
• Flexible working arrangements considered
• Career progression opportunities within expanding business

Working Environment

Based in our modern Central London head office, you'll enjoy:

• Contemporary office space with all necessary technology
• Close proximity to restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions
• Excellent transport connections (tube, bus, and rail links)
• Collaborative team atmosphere supporting professional growth

Working Hours

Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM with occasional flexibility required during busy periods such as:

• Month-end closing procedures
• Peak catering season support
• Annual audit periods

This role offers an excellent foundation for building a finance career within the exciting and fast-paced hospitality sector. You'll gain valuable experience in industry-specific financial management while working with a dedicated team passionate about delivering exceptional catering experiences.

Ready to bring your finance skills to London's dynamic hospitality sector?

Please apply, providing your CV along with a cover letter explaining your interest in finance within the hospitality industry and your relevant experience.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.