Description

An accounts assistant plays a critical role in any accounting or business firm. They work as part of the team that is responsible for maintaining finances within the company; they typically report directly to the accountant or the finance manager. On a typical day, an accounts assistant's work includes balancing books to ensure that records and payments are correct and working with the sales team on current and future projects. There are many other tasks they might encounter such as handling and writing checks, sales order processing, preparing statutory accounts, and processing invoices. This job typically takes place during normal business hours, but there may be special cases in which the accounts assistant is needed to help the accountant or the financial manager to meet critical task on deadline.

Accountant assistants generally work within an office and frequently use a computer. A typical accountant assistant's work space also will have many files and folders. Computers are usually equipped with accounting software and sensitive financial information about the company.

The accounts assistant must have a good understanding of accounting principles, good organizational skills, and typically some sort of accounting certification.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Accounts Assistant with 3-6 years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

  • Assisting in the preparation of financial statements, invoices, and reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards. This involves accurately compiling and organizing financial information to create reports and statements that adhere to accounting guidelines.
  • Managing accounts payable and receivable, processing invoices, and reconciling discrepancies to maintain financial records. You will be responsible for handling invoices, tracking payments, and resolving any discrepancies to ensure accurate financial records.
  • Conducting financial analysis and providing insights to support decision-making processes. This involves analyzing financial data, identifying trends, and providing meaningful insights and recommendations to support business decisions.
  • Assisting with budgeting and forecasting activities, tracking expenses, and monitoring budget adherence.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Accounts Assistant job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficient in financial software and tools to accurately process and maintain financial records, such as ledger entries, accounts payable/receivable, and bank reconciliations.
  • Strong numerical skills with attention to detail to ensure accuracy in data entry, calculations, and financial reports.
  • Knowledge of accounting principles and regulations to assist in the preparation of financial statements, income tax returns, and audit documentation.
  • Well-organized with the ability to multitask and prioritize competing deadlines, ensuring efficient workflow and timely completion of tasks.

Essential Skills For Accounts Assistant

1

Microsoft Excel

2

Bookkeeping

Skills That Affect Accounts Assistant Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Microsoft Excel

7%

Bookkeeping

7%

Career Prospects

The role of Accounts Assistant is crucial in maintaining smooth financial operations. With 3-6 years of experience in the Singapore finance industry, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are following options:

  • Senior Accountant: A position with broader responsibilities, including financial reporting and regulatory compliance.
  • Treasury Manager: Focused on managing cash and liquidity requirements, including forecasting, risk management, and investment activities.
  • Procurement Manager: Involves overseeing supplier relationships, contract negotiation, and purchasing processes.
  • Financial Analyst: Concentrated on monitoring financial performance, developing forecasts, and providing insights for strategic decision-making.

How to Learn

The role of Accounts Assistant in Singapore is projected to witness substantial growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent rise in demand for this position, indicating its significance in the finance industry. The future looks promising with a significant number of employment opportunities expected to be available. According to recent data, the job outlook for Accounts Assistants in Singapore remains positive, with numerous openings expected in the coming years. Given this trend, it is safe to assume that the role will continue to thrive and provide ample career opportunities for individuals in the finance sector.