Accounts Assistant

The International Hydropower Association (IHA) is a non-profit international membership organisation, whose mission is to deliver renewable energy systems, freshwater management, and climate change solutions by advancing sustainable hydropower.

Our 100+ members include developers, operators and manufacturers worldwide and our partners include research institutions, non-governmental organisations, governments, financial institutions and development agencies. The IHA Board comprises of influential industry representatives, a former head of government and a leading former United Nations diplomat.  

The role

We are recruiting a detail-oriented and organised individual to join our team as an Accounts Assistant. You’ll play a key role in supporting the day-to-day finance and administrative operations. Reporting to the Senior Finance and Operations Manager you’ll also work closely with internal teams and international stakeholders.  

The role also requires supporting the day-to-day financial tasks for the Global Solar Council (GSC) a member of the Global Renewables Alliances (GRA) of which, IHA is a member. There is also scope for the role to include financial responsibility for another GRA member in time.

This is a great opportunity to expand your finance career and gain exposure to international markets. Currently the role is part time (4 days) but we could consider full-time with additional responsibilities.  

Key Responsibilities

Purchase Ledger (Accounts Payable)

• Process supplier invoices accurately and promptly.

• Reconcile supplier statements and resolve any discrepancies.

• Prepare payment runs for approval and process payments in accordance with company procedures.

• Maintain accurate supplier records.

Sales Ledger (Accounts Receivable)

• Raise invoices and monitor outstanding debtor balances.

• Allocate receipts accurately and follow up overdue payments where appropriate.

• Build positive relationships with members, customers and suppliers to resolve account queries.

Financial Administration

• Maintain accurate accounting records and general bookkeeping.

• Reconcile multiple bank accounts, investigating and resolving discrepancies.

• Review and process employee expense claims in line with company policies.

• Assist with quarterly VAT return preparation.

• Manage the finance inboxes, ensuring queries are dealt with promptly and professionally.

Month-End & Reporting

• Support month-end close activities including:

• journals

• accruals

• prepayments

• balance sheet reconciliation.

• Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts.

• Support the annual audit process and provide information requested by auditors.

Office & Operational Support

• Provide administrative support to the Senior Finance & Operations Manager.

• Maintain the IT equipment and asset register.

• Support the smooth running of the office environment.

• Assist with continuous improvement of finance processes and procedures.

• Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role.

Essential skills and attributes

• At least 2 years' experience in a UK finance, accounts or bookkeeping role.

• Minimum AAT Level 3 qualification (or equivalent) or working towards a recognised accounting qualification.

• Good understanding of accounting principles, including VAT.

• Strong bookkeeping and reconciliation skills.

• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.

• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, including formulas, PivotTables and lookups.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to explain financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

• Experienced in using Xero accounting software

Contract: Permanent, part-time: 4 days a week/ 30hrs (flexible)

Location: Canary Wharf, London / hybrid (Min two days in the office Tuesday and Thursday required)

Remuneration: £28,900 - £31,200 pro-rata, per annum based on experience.

‍Start date: ASAP

Closing date for applications: 23 September (note applications will be considered as we receive them, so early application is recommended).

Application:
If you have the appropriate skills and experience for this role, we would like to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter explaining how your skills and attributes align with the role (applications without a cover letter will not be considered). All applicants must have the legal right to live and work in the UK. Documents should be sent by email to: recruitment@hydropower.org.  

Candidates who are shortlisted will be invited to complete a timed assessment.  

Due to the high volume of applications we may receive, we may not be able to contact all applicants. If you do not hear from us within 20 days of the advert closing, please assume that you have been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Throughout the selection process, we are absolutely committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, origin, or disability.  We value diversity and lived experience, and we strive to create an inclusive and supportive work environment where all employees feel respected and supported in reaching their full potential.