Job Description

Contract Type: Permanent Contract.


Location: Melton Mowbray Office.


Salary: Between 27,000.00 - 30,000.00, dependent upon skills and experience.

Primary Job Purpose

Reporting to the Finance Manager, the Junior Accountant will provide essential support in the financial administration of the company while gradually taking responsibility for the financial reporting of selected projects. The role is critical to ensuring accurate reporting, regulatory compliance, and sound financial control across various programmes.


Working collaboratively with Programme Directors, Project Managers, and the wider Finance Team, the Junior Accountant will contribute to financial insight, monitor project performance, and aid informed decision-making. Key duties include assisting with budgeting and forecasting, performing financial analysis, maintaining grant compliance, managing purchase and sales ledger tasks, and preparing evidence for funding claims.


This is a developmental position, ideally suited to an ambitious individual seeking to advance their career in finance within a supportive and dynamic environment.

Main Areas of Responsibility

Financial Reporting & Compliance

Assist with the preparation of funding claims to several funders such as Innovate UK, Made Smarter, UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), Combined Authority, Local Authorities, and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities. Support the preparation of monthly management accounts, including gathering data for variance analysis and financial commentary. Help compile project revenue recognition information. Maintain and organise supporting evidence for match funding and grant claims Contribute to tracking project KPIs through data input and basic analysis

Sales and Purchase Ledger Administration

Assist in maintaining the sales ledger, including invoicing and reconciliation of customer accounts. Administer the purchase ledger, including processing supplier invoices, payment runs, and reconciliation of supplier accounts. Ensure timely and accurate recording of all sales and purchase transactions. Assist in resolving any discrepancies or issues related to sales and purchase ledgers including employee expense claims.

Budgeting & Forecasting

Collect and compile financial data to support the budgeting and forecasting process. Help prepare project monitoring templates and reports under direction.

Stakeholder Engagement & Business Partnering

Provide timely and accurate financial data to support project managers and the wider project team. Assist with routine queries from internal teams and external auditors. Learn to provide financial insight and context to help contribute to decision-making.

Financial Policy Compliance & Process Management

Support the collection, organisation, and review of claim documentation in line with funder requirements. Monitor timesheet and expense submissions for accuracy and compliance. Assist in reviewing financial procedures and guidance to ensure up-to-date practices.

Additional Responsibilities

Participate in training and other learning and development opportunities. Work closely with other departments to help understand their financial needs and challenges. Perform ad hoc financial analysis as required to improve decision-making and efficiency.

Essential Skills & Experience:

Strong analytical skills, problem-solving, and prioritisation skills to meet tight reporting deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis) High attention to detail to ensure accuracy in all financial processes and reports. Willingness to learn and take direction.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

Knowledge of integrated accounting systems (e.g. Access Dimensions, Focal Point). Knowledge of financial compliance and audits, particularly in grant funding. Experience working within a multi-functional finance team. Understanding of financial policies, compliance, and audit requirements.

About Us

Oxford Innovation Advice is a fast-growing company focused on innovation and mutual respect, delivering strong results in a dynamic work environment. Part of SQW Group, we also offer flexible office spaces for tech start-ups, angel investment networks, co-investment fund management, and consultancy services across the UK, Europe, and Asia.


We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy once we have received sufficient applications, so we would advise you to submit your application as early as possible to prevent disappointment.