Bookkeeper Job Description: Role, Duties and Requirements

The Bookkeeper job description below outlines the primary duties and qualifications for candidates who maintain accurate financial records, support month end processes and ensure compliance with accounting policies. Applicants with attention to detail, basic accounting knowledge and experience in transactional bookkeeping should apply.

Bookkeeper Job Profile

The bookkeeper is responsible for recording and maintaining the organisation's financial transactions to produce reliable and timely records. This role supports the finance function by ensuring ledgers are accurate, reconciliations are performed and routine financial controls are applied.

The post exists to provide day to day bookkeeping services, assist with month end tasks and prepare information for management and external accountants. The bookkeeper will work under the supervision of a senior finance colleague or manager and may liaise with other departments to obtain source documents and resolve queries.

Bookkeeper Job Description

The bookkeeper performs routine accounting tasks to maintain the integrity of financial records. Responsibilities include processing journals, managing accounts payable and receivable, preparing bank reconciliations and ensuring that supporting documentation is complete and filed. The role requires accuracy, regular verification of balances and escalation of discrepancies as appropriate.

Work is typically office based within the finance team and involves regular deadlines at month end and during audit periods. The bookkeeper is expected to follow accounting policies, assist with internal controls, contribute to process improvements and provide clear, well organised information to colleagues and external advisers.

Bookkeeper: Duties and Responsibilities

• Record daily financial transactions and maintain general ledger entries.
• Process supplier invoices and ensure timely coding and approvals.
• Manage customer invoices, apply receipts and follow up outstanding balances.
• Prepare and reconcile bank statements on a regular basis.
• Perform month end routines, including accruals and prepayments.
• Reconcile and maintain control accounts for debtors and creditors.
• Support preparation of VAT returns and maintain VAT records.
• Maintain petty cash and expense records, ensuring correct authorisation.
• Assist with payroll processing tasks and statutory reporting as required.
• Prepare routine management and ad hoc financial reports for review.
• Liaise with external accountants during audits and annual accounts preparation.
• Ensure proper filing and retention of financial documentation and records.
• Monitor cash flow items and flag potential issues to management.
• Identify opportunities to streamline bookkeeping processes and improve controls.

Bookkeeper: Requirements and Qualifications

• Recognised bookkeeping qualification or AAT level or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum of two years practical bookkeeping experience in a business setting.
• Clear understanding of double entry bookkeeping and basic accounting principles.
• Knowledge of VAT and payroll processing fundamentals relevant to the role.
• Strong numeracy, accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good organisational skills and ability to meet regular deadlines.
• Ability to interpret financial records and identify inconsistencies.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for internal liaison.
• High level of confidentiality and professional integrity when handling data.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Comfortable preparing basic management reports and reconciliations.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to changes in processes or regulatory requirements.