Finance Assistant Location: Rodmell, near Lewes Salary: Circa £40,000 DOE Job Type: Full-time, Permanent Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm The Role An established construction contractor is seeking an ambitious Finance Assistant to join its team. This opportunity would suit an AAT-qualified professional looking to progress towards ACCA or an equivalent qualification, or someone already studying towards a professional qualification with a few years of relevant experience. Working closely with the Finance Director and Business Manager, you will gain broad experience across financial operations, project accounting and management reporting. This is a genuine long-term career opportunity, with potential to progress into a senior finance leadership position over the next 5–6 years. Immediate availability or a maximum one-week notice period is required. Candidates with a month's notice will not be considered. Key Responsibilities * Process supplier and overhead invoices, matching them against purchase orders. * Reconcile supplier statements, maintain accurate records and respond to supplier enquiries. * Prepare supplier payment schedules, process payments and issue remittances. * Maintain supplier and subcontractor accounts across finance systems. * Prepare fortnightly subcontractor payment certificates, checking CIS deductions and retention. * Verify suppliers and subcontractors through HMRC. * Process customer applications for payment and receipts, maintaining accurate sales ledger records. * Monitor outstanding debts and prepare weekly aged debtor reports. * Reconcile credit card statements and post transactions to the accounting system. * Assist with bank reconciliations and weekly cash flow reporting. * Prepare monthly work in progress (WIP) reports and reconcile balances. Skills and Experience * AAT qualified, studying towards ACCA or equivalent, or keen to progress towards a professional finance qualification. * A few years of relevant finance or accountancy experience. * Previous construction industry experience is highly desirable. * Understanding of double-entry bookkeeping and general accounting principles. * Knowledge of construction project accounting and WIP valuations is advantageous. * Essential knowledge of the Construction Industry Scheme (CIS). * Experience with Sage 50 or similar accounting software is beneficial. Salary and Benefits * Circa £40,000 salary, depending on experience. * Professional study sponsorship and discretionary exam success bonuses. * Mentoring from an ACCA-qualified Finance Director. * Genuine long-term career progression into senior finance management. * Annual staff incentive scheme. * 23 days' holiday, including Christmas closure. * Free on-site parking. Candidates must be immediately available or on a maximum one-week notice period. How to Apply Please submit your CV for immediate consideration if you are looking for a finance role offering professional development, increased responsibility and long-term career progression