Contractor Accountant

Accountant (Fixed Term Contract - 3 Months)

St Albans / Hybrid (as required)

3 days per week - Fixed Term Contract (3 Months)

Day-rate £300/day

We are seeking an experienced and hands‑on Accountant to join our Finance team on a 3-month fixed term contract to provide additional support during the annual audit process and wider finance activity. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the preparation of audit deliverables, strengthening financial controls and assisting the Finance team with key accounting activities during a busy period.

This role requires a proactive individual who can quickly understand processes, work independently and support multiple priorities in a fast‑paced professional services environment.

• Coordinate and prepare information required for the external audit process
• Own and maintain audit request trackers
• Gather supporting documentation and respond to auditor queries
• Prepare audit schedules and reconciliations
• Liaise with internal stakeholders to obtain information efficiently
• Support delivery of a smooth and timely year‑end audit process

• Prepare and review balance sheet reconciliations
• Investigate and resolve reconciling items
• Review accounting entries and ensure supporting documentation is maintained
• Assist with maintaining strong financial controls and process documentation
• Support review and cleanup of historical balance sheet items where required

• Assist with month‑end close activities
• Support preparation of journals, accruals and prepayments
• Provide analysis and commentary where required
• Assist with management reporting and ad hoc financial analysis

• Identify opportunities to improve reporting efficiency and control processes
• Support documentation and standardisation of finance procedures
• Assist with ad hoc finance projects and process enhancements

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or qualified by experience with strong relevant background
• Previous experience supporting external audits
• Strong balance sheet reconciliation experience
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical capability
• Strong Excel skills including:
• Pivot tables
• SUMIFS/XLOOKUP
• Data manipulation and analysis
• Ability to work independently and quickly understand new environments
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities
• Experience of year‑end audit preparation and audit liaison

• Experience with in professional services or legal sector environments