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What a bookkeeper does
A bookkeeper records day-to-day financial transactions — sales, purchases, receipts and payments — and keeps the accounting records accurate and organised. This forms the foundation for reporting and accounts.
The work involves reconciling bank accounts, managing invoices, maintaining ledgers and preparing routine financial information. Accuracy and consistency are vital, as the records support decisions and compliance.
Core responsibilities
- Recording sales, purchases, receipts and payments.
- Maintaining ledgers and the chart of accounts.
- Reconciling bank and supplier statements.
- Processing and tracking invoices and expenses.
- Preparing routine financial summaries and reports.
- Keeping records organised for accounts and audits.
Skills and qualities
- Strong numeracy and accuracy.
- Good attention to detail and organisation.
- Comfort with accounting and spreadsheet software.
- Understanding of basic bookkeeping principles.
- Discretion when handling financial information.
- Reliability and methodical working.
Typical employers and settings
- Small and medium-sized businesses across sectors.
- Accountancy and bookkeeping practices.
- Charities, schools and membership bodies.
- Self-employed and freelance arrangements.
- In-house finance teams within larger organisations.
How the role is recruited
- Roles are filled directly or through recruitment agencies.
- A CV setting out bookkeeping experience and software is usually requested.
- Screening checks accuracy, software skills and relevant qualifications.
- Interviews explore bookkeeping knowledge and may include a practical task.
- Onboarding covers the specific software, accounts and processes.
Documents involved
- A job description listing software and finance responsibilities.
- An employment contract or engagement terms.
- An offer letter confirming role, hours and start date.
- Right-to-work and identity checks as required.
- Confidentiality terms given access to financial information.
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