Job Description – Outsourced Finance Associate
Department: Business Services – Outsourced Finance
Reports to: Client Lead / Senior
Office: Worcester or Droitwich – 60% office based
About Ballards:
At Ballards, we're more than accountants, we're trusted business advisers, strategic partners, and problem solvers. Since 1985, we've been helping ambitious businesses, charities, and private clients achieve sustainable growth through expert accountancy, tax, audit, and consultancy services.
Today, with over 150 talented colleagues across the Midlands, we're proud to be one of the region's fastest-growing independent firms. Our success is built on lasting relationships, exceptional client service, and a collaborative, people-first culture where everyone has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
What sets us apart is our integrated approach. Alongside our market-leading accounting and tax expertise, we provide specialist consultancy in technology transformation, talent strategy, and brand and digital marketing, enabling us to deliver innovative, forward-thinking solutions that help our clients succeed in an ever-changing world.
Joining Ballards means becoming part of a progressive and ambitious firm that invests in its people, encourages innovation, and supports professional development at every stage of your career. If you're looking to build your future with a firm where your ideas are valued, your development is championed, and your work makes a real difference, we'd love to hear from you.
The Opportunity
Join Ballards' growing Outsourced Finance team and become a trusted extension of our clients' finance functions. You'll support a diverse portfolio of ambitious SMEs using cloud accounting technology, delivering accurate financial information, management reporting and exceptional client service. This role is an ideal entry point for someone looking to build a long-term career in practice, with funded AAT Level 4 and future ACCA progression available.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day bookkeeping and accounting for a portfolio of clients.
- Process purchase and sales invoices, bank reconciliations and ledger maintenance.
- Prepare VAT returns and support MTD compliance.
- Assist with management accounts and month-end processes.
- Investigate anomalies and resolve client queries proactively.
- Build relationships with clients and deliver excellent service.
- Work with Xero and other cloud accounting systems.
- Support continuous improvement and identify efficiencies.
- Study towards professional qualifications with full support.
About You
- AAT Level 3 qualified or studying (or qualified by experience).
- Previous practice or bookkeeping experience desirable.
- Strong Excel skills and confidence with cloud accounting software, particularly Xero.
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail.
- Curious, proactive and eager to learn.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Why Ballards?
At Ballards we believe in 'The Speed of Knowing You'. We invest in people through structured development, approachable leadership, modern technology, flexible hybrid working after probation, and genuine career progression.
Skills Required
- AAT Level 3 qualified or studying (or qualified by experience)
- Previous practice or bookkeeping experience
- Strong Excel skills
- Confidence with cloud accounting software, particularly Xero
- Ability to prepare VAT returns and support MTD compliance
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
What We Do
Ballards LLP: Innovative Accountancy and Business Advisory Ballards LLP is a forward-thinking accountancy and business advisory firm with a rich history of delivering value to our clients. Established in 1985, we've grown from a local practice to a significant player in the professional services landscape, now serving OMBs and large corporates across the UK and internationally. At Ballards, we offer a unique blend of traditional accountancy services and innovative business solutions. Our expertise spans audit, tax, and compliance, complemented by specialist advisory services in IT consulting, recruitment, brand and marketing, and strategy. We pride ourselves on our agile approach, combining the stability and expertise our clients expect with the innovative thinking that sets us apart. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing personalised, value-driven solutions that help our clients navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve their business goals. As we look to the future, we're committed to expanding our geographical reach, enhancing our service offerings, and continuing to be a trusted partner to businesses across the UK.
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