Account Manager

An accounts manager's work typically includes: balancing accounts (often known as 'double entry book-keeping'); processing sales invoices, receipts and payments; preparing statements showing income and expenditure; completing VAT returns; checking that accounts are accurate; and preparing wages and processing expenses claims, if dealing with payroll.

They are also involved in: helping to prepare final accounts, such as profit and loss accounts and balance sheets; using computerised accounting systems; and giving administrative support to accountants. In larger companies, they usually work as part of an accounting team, and might specialise in one area like sales or purchase ledger, payroll or credit control. In small businesses, they might do all of these tasks and also bank takings and handle petty cash.

Starting salaries can be around £12,000 to £15,000 a year.

With experience, earnings can be between £20,000 and £22,000.

To become an accounts clerk you should feel confident with maths and using computers.

The qualifications that employers ask for can vary, although many will prefer you to have some GCSEs (A-C) including maths, or a similar level of qualification.

You will find it helpful to have previous experience of office work. Temporary work can be a good way of getting experience that may lead to a permanent job. Computer experience is also useful, particularly in using spreadsheet and database packages like Microsoft Excel and Access.

You may have an advantage if you take a basic accounts or bookkeeping qualification before you look for work.

Relevant qualifications include: AS or A Level in Accounting; Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) ABC Level 2 Certificate in Book-keeping; International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB) Levels 2 and 3 Certificates in Bookkeeping; Institute of Certified Bookkeepers (ICB) Level 1 Certificate in Basic Bookkeeping or Level 2 in Manual or Computerised Bookkeeping; OCR Level 1 Certificate in Bookkeeping and Levels 2 and 3 Certificates in Accounting; and City & Guilds (8953) Levels 1 and 2 Certificates in Bookkeeping and Accounts.

You can study for most of these qualifications full or part-time in colleges or training centres, or by distance learning. You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme - the range available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers - see www.apprenticeships.org.uk.