Hays
Assistant Accountant

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Your new company
Hays are delighted to be partnering with a highly successful and expanding manufacturing business in Exeter to recruit an ambitious Assistant Accountant.
This is far more than a traditional Assistant Accountant role. The business has an excellent reputation within its sector, continues to invest in growth and is committed to developing its people. As a result of continued expansion, they are looking to strengthen their finance team with someone who wants to build a long-term career and progress within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.
Working closely with an experienced Financial Controller, you'll gain exposure to a broad range of accounting responsibilities and be given the opportunity to take on increasing levels of responsibility as your skills develop. For the right individual, this role offers a genuine pathway towards Management Accountant and beyond.
Your new role
Reporting directly to the Financial Controller, you will support the finance team across a range of accounting responsibilities while developing your management accounting skills.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Key duties will include:
- Assisting with the preparation of monthly management accounts
- Balance sheet reconciliations
- Accruals and prepayments
- Fixed asset accounting
- Supporting budgeting and forecasting activities
- Maintaining accurate financial records and ledgers
- Assisting with month-end and year-end processes
- VAT returns and other statutory reporting requirements
- Producing reports and analysis for stakeholders
- Supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the finance function
What you'll need to succeed
- AAT qualified or actively studying towards ACCA or CIMA
- Previous experience in an Assistant Accountant or similar finance role
- Strong understanding of core accounting principles
- Good Excel skills and attention to detail
- Positive and proactive approach to work
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- A genuine desire to learn, develop and progress your finance career


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What you'll get in return
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Study support towards ACCA or CIMA
- Structured development opportunities
- Broad exposure across the finance function
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Genuine long-term progression opportunities within a growing business
Flexible working options available.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
Desired Skills and Experience
Assistant Accountant - Part Qualified
Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk
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