Job Title: Bookkeeper (Happy Town)

Location: Newtownards
Type: Part-time 12-16 hours per week
Reports to: Centre Manager / Business Owner

About Us

We are a dynamic soft-play centre committed to creating fun, safe, and memorable experiences for families. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a dedicated and detail-oriented Bookkeeper to manage the centres financial operations and support smooth, compliant reporting.

Job Summary

The Bookkeeper will maintain the accounting system, manage day-to-day financial activities, and produce accurate and timely financial reports, including VAT returns, payroll, month-end and year-end accounts. You will also provide cash flow forecasting, supplier payments, and respond to email and ad-hoc administrative tasks.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain the accounting system: Accurate daily data entry of sales, purchases, receipts, payments and general ledger updates using Xero, QuickBooks, Sage or similar software
• Monthly Payroll & Pensions Returns: Process payroll, pensions contributions, and submit related RTI/Pensions auto-enrolment returns.
• VAT Returns: Prepare and file periodic VAT returns, ensuring HMRC compliance and timely submission
• Monthly Profit & Loss Analysis: Generate monthly P&L reports and explain variances to management, summarising operational performance
• Month-End Journals: Post accruals, prepayments, depreciation and adjust general ledger at month-end.
• Cash Flow Forecasting: Monitor and forecast cash flow to assist in financial planning and decision-making
• Supplier Payments: Process accounts payable, schedule payment runs, handle supplier queries.
• Balance Credit Card Transactions: Reconcile credit card statements versus entries, identify discrepancies.
• Email & Ad-Hoc Support: Respond to finance-related emails, support centre operations with occasional tasks.
• Year-End Closing: Reconcile accounts, prepare trial balance and assist external accountant/auditor in closing off year-end accounts.

Required Skills & Experience

• Proven bookkeeping experience (13 years) in small businesses or service sectors (retail, hospitality, leisure).
• Proficiency in UK accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks, Sage) and strong Excel skills.
• Knowledge of UK payroll rules, pension auto-enrolment and VAT regulations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable Qualifications & Attributes

• A hands-on, proactive attitude and ability to work collaboratively across teams.
• High integrity, reliability and confidentiality in handling financial data.
• Experience using Fusemetrix

Success Criteria

• Accurate month-end accounts prepared on time, with minimal corrections.
• VAT returns filed without late submissions or penalties.
• Payroll processed accurately, with timely pension contributions.
• Reliable cash flow forecasts supporting effective supplier management.
• Prompt supplier payments and error-free reconciliations, especially of credit cards.
• Clear and helpful financial reporting to support management decisions.

Whats in it for You?

• Competitive salary to be discussed at interview stage
• A dynamic workplace where the role contributes directly to guest experience and smooth centre operations.
• Flexible working hours.

How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your payroll, VAT, and any other relevant experience to

Please note that any job offer will be subject to references from previous employer