Bookkeeper (Full Time)
Beetham Nurseries is an independent, family-owned garden centre based in south Cumbria. A business of over 80 team members, plants are our passion and we are proud to offer the highest quality indoor & outdoor plants, garden furniture, homeware, food & drink, and event experiences to our large customer base.
Beetham Nurseries is looking for an experienced Bookkeeper to join our team. The Bookkeeper will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records for Beetham Nurseries Ltd. This role includes managing day-to-day bookkeeping activities, processing payroll, preparing VAT returns, and producing monthly financial reports to support effective financial management and decision-making within the business.
Key responsibilities
Financial records keeping
- Maintain accurate and up to date financial records using accounting software
- Record daily financial transactions including sales, purchases, receipts, and payments
- Reconcile bank accounts, credit cards and supplier statements
- Maintain the general ledger and ensure all financial records are properly documented
Payroll administration
- Process file for monthly payroll for employees
- Ensure payroll calculations, deductions, and payments are accurate and compliant with HMRC regulations
- Maintain employee payroll records and manage pension contributions where applicable
- Handle payroll enquiries from staff
Accounts payable and receivable
- Process supplier invoices and schedule payments
- Issue customer invoices and monitor outstanding balances
- Follow up on overdue payments and manage credit control where required
VAT & compliance
- Prepare and submit VAT returns inline with HMRC requirements
- Ensure VAT records are accurate and compliant with Making Tax Digital regulations
- Work with external accountants where required to support financial compliance
Monthly financial reporting
- Prepare monthly management accounts and financial reports
- Produce profit and loss summaries and cash flow reports
- Assist with budget tracking and variance analysis
- Provide financial information to management to support business decisions
General administration
- Maintain organised filing systems for financial documentation
- Prepare records and documentation for accountants and year-end accounts
- Ensure compliance with financial procedures and company policies
Key skills & experience (Essential)
- Proven experience in a bookkeeping or finance role
- Experience using QuickBooks software
- Experience preparing and submitting VAT returns
- Experience processing payroll
- Strong knowledge of bookkeeping principles and financial record keeping
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Ability to manage confidential information
Qualifications
- AAT qualification or equivalent accounting/bookkeeping certification
Personal attributes
- Reliable and trustworthy
- Proactive with the ability to work independently
- Strong attention to detail
- Good communication skills and abiliity to work with internal teams and external accountants
Staff Benefits
- Company Pension
- 25% discount in The Garden Cafe
- 20% discount in The Garden Centre
- 15% discount in The Food Hall
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
- Voucher on your birthday
Working hours
- Full time
Salary
- £30k+ dependent on experience
How to Apply
To apply for this role, please send a copy of your CV and covering letter to enquiries@beethamnurseries.co.uk, download an Application Form, or ask for one from our Information Desk and return it either by email or to the following address: Management, Beetham Nurseries, Pool Darkin Lane, Milnthorpe, Cumbria, LA7 7AP.
This position is vital for maintaining the financial health of our organisation, requiring a proactive approach and meticulous attention to detail. We welcome applications from candidates who are committed to accuracy, organisation, and continuous professional development.
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