Accounts Assistant
To support the finance team by managing the financial operations related to utility payments, council tax, tenant liaison, credit control, and insurance matters. This role ensures timely and accurate processing of payments and effective communication with tenants, suppliers, and external agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
Utility and Council Tax Payments:
Process and reconcile payments for electricity, gas, water, and council tax across multiple properties.
Ensure utility accounts are correctly assigned to properties and resolve any discrepancies.
Liaise with utility providers and local councils regarding account queries and billing issues.
Credit Control:
Monitor tenant accounts and ensure timely rent collection.
Chase outstanding payments through phone, email, and formal communication.
Set up and monitor repayment plans where necessary.
Tenant Liaison:
Communicate with tenants regarding account balances, billing queries, and payment options.
Provide guidance on rent arrears and payment methods.
Handle queries with empathy while ensuring financial policies are upheld.
Insurance Liaison:
Assist with insurance claims related to properties (e.g. damages, liability).
Maintain records of ongoing claims and liaise with insurance companies to ensure timely resolutions.
Coordinate with property management on insurance requirements and renewals.
Financial Administration:
Maintain accurate records of all financial transactions in the accounting system.
Prepare reports and analysis for internal use, including arrears reports and cash flow summaries.
Assist with month-end procedures and audits as required.
Skills & Experience Required:
Essential:
At least 2 years’ experience in an accounting or finance-related role.
Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, basic formulas).
Experience in credit control and dealing with utility/council tax payments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Proven negotiation skills and ability to manage difficult conversations professionally.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple deadlines.
Desirable:
Experience in the housing or property management sector.
Familiarity with housing benefit/universal credit systems.
Knowledge of accounting software (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks, Xero, etc.).
Personal Attributes:
High attention to detail and accuracy.
Proactive and solution-oriented approach.
Empathetic and patient when dealing with vulnerable tenants.
Strong organisational and time-management skills.
Team player with a collaborative attitude.
Working Hours:
8:30am – 4:45pm Monday-Friday
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