Finance assistants play a vital role in supporting financial operations, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring the smooth running of day-to-day accounting tasks. From processing invoices and managing budgets to assisting with financial reporting, your skills help keep the business on track. But how do you write a CV that truly reflects your strengths and gets noticed by employers?

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to create a standout Finance assistant CV, including:

  • CV examples tailored to finance assistant roles
  • Professionally designed Finance assistant CV templates
  • The best format to structure your CV for maximum impact
  • Expert tips on writing a CV that catches an employer’s eye
  • Common mistakes to avoid when putting your CV together
  • Answers to frequently asked questions about Finance assistant CVs

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    Finance assistant CV sample

    Mark Rice
    London
    07912345678 
    mark.rice@example.co.uk

    PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

    Detail-oriented and highly organised Finance Assistant with over 3 years of experience supporting finance departments in fast-paced corporate environments. Proficient in processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and maintaining accurate financial records. Adept at using Sage, QuickBooks, and Excel to streamline day-to-day financial tasks. Known for meeting tight deadlines, supporting month-end reporting, and ensuring compliance with company procedures and financial regulations. 

    WORK HISTORY

    Finance Assistant
    Harper & Co. Accountants, Manchester
    January 2023 – March 2025

    • Process an average of 150+ purchase and sales invoices weekly, ensuring accuracy and timely payment
    • Reconcile bank statements and supplier accounts, resolving any discrepancies with minimal delay
    • Support month-end procedures including journal entries and accruals
    • Maintain petty cash systems and assist with preparation of VAT returns
    • Liaise with clients and suppliers regarding payment queries, ensuring excellent service

    Junior Finance Assistant
    Northwest Logistics Ltd, Salford
    January 2021 – December 2022

    • Supported the finance officer in day-to-day bookkeeping and invoice entry
    • Managed staff expenses and petty cash reimbursements
    • Updated spreadsheets tracking monthly expenditure and incoming payments
    • Helped prepare internal financial summaries for team meetings
    • Developed strong working knowledge of financial software and admin systems

    SKILLS

    • Invoice processing & purchase ledger management
    • Account reconciliation & bank statements
    • Budget monitoring & expense reporting
    • Sage 50, QuickBooks, and MS Excel (VLOOKUP, PivotTables)
    • Data entry & financial record keeping
    • Knowledge of VAT returns & petty cash systems
    • Strong attention to detail & time management
    • Confidentiality & integrity in handling financial data

    EDUCATION

    AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting
     City College Manchester, 2020

    AAT Level 2 Certificate in Accounting
     City College Manchester, 2019

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    Finance assistant CV templates

    Our CV templates are designed specifically for the UK job market, ensuring that your sales experience, achievements, and skills are showcased clearly and professionally. Browse through our collection to find the perfect template that will help you highlight your sales expertise and make a strong impression on potential employers.

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    Choosing the best CV format for financial assistants

    Creating a good CV as a financial assistant starts with selecting the right layout to best represent your abilities, background, and qualifications. A thoughtfully organised CV not only makes a positive first impression but also increases your chances of being shortlisted. The two most widely used formats for financial assistant roles are the reverse chronological and the skills-focused CV.

    Reverse chronological CV

    This traditional CV format is best suited to candidates with a steady career path in finance or accounting. It places your most recent experience at the top, offering employers a clear view of your progression, financial responsibilities, and key contributions.

    Why choose this format?

    • Demonstrates experience clearly: Highlights your growth within financial roles and showcases your practical expertise with budgeting, reconciliations, or invoicing.
    • Easy to navigate: Presents your career history in reverse order, making it simple for recruiters to track your journey and impact.
    • Familiar to employers: Many hiring managers prefer this format as it aligns with standard recruitment expectations.

    Skills-based CV

    Ideal for individuals entering the finance sector or those with a varied employment history, the skills-based CV shifts attention from job titles to the specific competencies you bring to the role. It works especially well for career changers or recent graduates.

    Why it might suit you:

    • Highlights core strengths: Brings focus to skills such as financial reporting, data entry accuracy, software proficiency (e.g., Sage, QuickBooks), and attention to detail.
    • Adaptable: Useful if you’ve gained relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or roles in other sectors with transferable skills.
    • Supportive of career pivots: Particularly effective for applicants without an extensive financial background but who possess strong analytical or numerical skills.
    Choose your CV format

    How to write an effective finance assistant CV

    Writing a good CV begins with understanding the key sections that need to be included. To help you get started, here’s a step-by-step guide explaining each CV section with examples to demonstrate the correct format. 

    Add your up-to-date contact details

    Start your CV by placing your contact details at the top. Include your full name, location, phone number, and email address. Make sure to double-check for any errors to ensure recruiters can easily reach you without any issues.

    Example of a contact section

    Mark Rice
    London
    07912345678 
    mark.rice@example.co.uk

    Write your financial assistant CV personal statement

    Your personal statement sits at the top of your CV and plays a vital role in capturing the employer’s attention. It should be brief yet impactful, offering a snapshot of your strengths and suitability for the role of a financial assistant.

    When writing this section, focus on your accuracy with numbers, your understanding of financial procedures, and your experience supporting finance teams. Mention your familiarity with financial software, your organisational skills, and your commitment to maintaining financial accuracy and efficiency.

    Here’s what to include:

    • Your core competencies (e.g. data entry, invoice processing, reconciliations)
    • Relevant experience or qualifications in finance or accounting
    • Your approach to supporting wider finance operations and meeting deadlines

    Example of a financial assistant’s personal statement:

    Detail-oriented Financial Assistant with over 5 years’ experience supporting finance departments in fast-paced office environments. Skilled in processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and maintaining accurate financial records. Adept with accounting software, including Sage and Xero, with a strong commitment to precision, confidentiality, and supporting smooth financial operations.

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    Showcasing experience on your financial assistant CV

    Your work experience section is a vital part of your financial assistant CV. It allows employers to assess your understanding of financial procedures, attention to detail, and the value you’ve brought to previous finance teams. Rather than simply listing your daily tasks, focus on how your contributions improved efficiency, supported accurate reporting, or strengthened compliance. Include concrete achievements and quantify your impact wherever possible.

    Example of CV work experience:

    Financial Assistant
    Harrison & Co Accountancy – London
    January 2021 – Present

    • Streamlined invoice processing system, reducing month-end closing time by 20% through better documentation and workflow automation.
    • Accurately managed accounts payable and receivable, processing over 300 transactions monthly with minimal error rate.
    • Assisted in the preparation of quarterly management reports, improving financial visibility for stakeholders.
    • Implemented a digital filing system that improved retrieval time for financial records by 30%.
    • Supported payroll processing and liaised with HMRC on routine tax submissions and compliance.

    Finance Administrator
    Oakridge Housing Group – Birmingham
    June 2017 – December 2020

    • Reconciled bank statements and supplier accounts on a weekly basis, reducing discrepancies by 40%.
    • Supported annual audit preparation, praised for maintaining accurate and well-organised records.
    • Maintained financial spreadsheets and databases to track expenditure, ensuring adherence to departmental budgets.
    • Played a key role in transitioning from manual bookkeeping to Sage 50, offering training and support to colleagues.
    • Processed staff expenses and supplier payments in line with internal policies and VAT requirements.

    Key skills to include on your financial assistant CV

    The skills section of your financial assistant CV is your chance to highlight the abilities that make you a valuable asset to any finance or accounts team. This includes both your core technical competencies and your day-to-day operational strengths. Be sure to tailor your skills to the specific role you’re applying for, aligning them with the employer’s stated requirements.

    General skills for a financial assistant CV

    • Accuracy and attention to detail
    • Time management and the ability to meet strict deadlines
    • Strong numerical and analytical skills
    • Verbal and written communication
    • Confidentiality and professional integrity
    • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial databases
    • Organisational and multi-tasking abilities

    Specific financial assistant skills

    • Invoice processing and reconciliation
    • Budget monitoring and expense tracking
    • Payroll support and processing
    • Knowledge of accounting software (e.g. Sage, Xero, QuickBooks)
    • Bank and account reconciliations
    • Supporting the preparation of financial reports
    • VAT submissions and compliance with HMRC regulations
    • Maintaining accurate financial records and audit readiness

    What to include in the education section

    For a financial assistant role, your education helps demonstrate your foundation in finance, accounting, or business practices. While a degree isn’t always mandatory, having formal training or certifications relevant to financial processes can strengthen your application. Focus on qualifications that show your understanding of financial systems, accuracy, and software proficiency. Keep the section concise, and highlight anything that directly supports the responsibilities of the role.

    Include the following:

    • Degree or qualification name – e.g., Diploma in Accounting and Finance, Certificate in Bookkeeping

    • Institution name – the name of the school, college, or training provider
    • Dates attended or year completed – especially important if it’s a recent qualification
    • Relevant coursework (optional) – such as financial reporting, payroll, Excel, or tax fundamentals
    • Finance certifications – like QuickBooks, Sage, Xero, or AAT
    • Language skills (if relevant) – useful for roles involving international clients or communication

    Education

    Diploma in Accounting and Finance
    City College of Business and Management, London
    2019 – 2021
    Key modules: Financial Reporting, Payroll Processing, Excel for Finance, Taxation Basics

    Certifications

    • QuickBooks Certified User – 2022
    • Xero Accounting Certification – 2023

    Languages

    Fluent in English and Intermediate Spanish

    Dos and don’ts for a financial assistant CV

    DO

    • DO tailor your CV for each finance role

      Every financial assistant position is a little different, so aligning your CV with the specific responsibilities listed in the job description is important. If the role emphasises invoicing and reconciliations, highlight your experience. If it involves working closely with payroll or budgeting, ensure those skills are front and centre. Customising your CV shows attention to detail and a genuine interest in the role.

    • DO highlight relevant tools and systems

      Hiring managers want to know you’re familiar with the tools of the trade. Include your experience with accounting software like QuickBooks, Xero, or Sage and your proficiency in Excel or other spreadsheet programs. Mention any practical skills that show you can hit the ground running, such as processing invoices, reconciling statements, or preparing financial reports.

    DON’T

    • DON’T send a CV with typos or formatting issues

      In a finance role, accuracy is everything. Mistakes on your CV can raise concerns about your attention to detail. Always proofread your document carefully, and keep formatting clean, consistent, and professional.

    • DON’T make your CV too long

      Keep your CV concise, ideally one page if you’re early in your career, or two pages max if you have more experience. Avoid listing every job you’ve ever had. Focus on the roles that show your suitability for a financial assistant position.

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    Your financial assistant CV questions answered

    How can I improve my chances of getting an interview?

    Always include a tailored cover letter with your CV to boost your chances of landing an interview. Use the cover letter to explain why you’re interested in the finance team at that specific company, and how your skills and experience match the role. Mention particular responsibilities listed in the job ad and give examples of how you’ve handled similar tasks. A well-written, personalised cover letter shows initiative and professionalism—qualities employers value in a financial assistant.

    What if I just finished school or a finance course and don’t have experience?

    If you’re early in your career, shift the focus to your education, any relevant coursework, and transferable skills like attention to detail, numeracy, or time management. If you completed an internship or handled financial tasks in another role (even admin-related), include that too. You can also add a short summary at the top of your CV explaining your enthusiasm for working in finance and any certifications you’ve completed.

    Can I include non-finance skills on my CV?

    Yes, but only if they’re relevant or transferable. Skills like customer service, organisation, data entry, and administrative support often overlap with finance tasks. You can also highlight soft skills like teamwork, communication, and reliability, especially if you’ve worked in office settings or had to meet deadlines regularly.

    Is it okay to leave employment gaps?

    Employment gaps aren’t a deal-breaker, but they should be addressed briefly if they’re significant. You can mention in your cover letter or CV summary that you took time off for study, family, relocation, or personal development. If you did freelance work, temp roles, or took courses during that time, mention it.

    Should I include references on my CV?

    It’s not necessary to list references directly on your CV unless the job posting specifically asks for them. A simple note such as “References available upon request” is enough. Save that space for showcasing your skills and experience.

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