Muhammad Z.

Lead the full accounts and bookkeeping functions for a UK practice managing a diverse portfolio of over 100 clients across sectors including eCommerce, restaurants, entertainment, IT, and professional services. Serve as the primary contact for all inquiries related to accounts, bookkeeping, tax, and advisory services. Oversee full-cycle bookkeeping activities, which encompass accounts payable/receivable, invoicing, bill processing, and bank reconciliations. Reconcile financial records on a monthly basis across platforms such as QuickBooks Online, Xero, and FreeAgent. Carry out reconciliations for various payment gateways including PayPal, Stripe, and Shopify. Generate monthly management accounts with variance analysis and financial insights to assist in client decisions. File VAT returns and Self-Assessment Tax Returns while ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations. Prepare cash flow forecasts, projected P&L statements, and balance sheets for client strategic planning. Handle payroll processing for UK clients and facilitate workplace pension contributions through NEST. Finalize statutory accounts per FRS 102 and FRS 105 for different business structures and submit Confirmation Statements. Supervise and review the work of a team of 6 bookkeepers to uphold accuracy and timely delivery. Onboard new clients to accounting platforms by designing charts of accounts and automating workflows, as well as train clients on Xero, QuickBooks, and more.

Held a senior finance position within one of Pakistan's largest cement manufacturers. Developed monthly management and production accounts, focusing on P&L analysis pertaining to cement and clinker lines, with attention to identifying cost drivers and variances. Conducted cost allocation and CVP analysis along with industry benchmarking among leading cement manufacturers to inform strategic decisions. Managed the process of annual budgeting and ongoing forecasting, adjusting projections based on operational and market developments. Created financial reports for senior leadership, including specialized P&L reports regarding industrial ecology. Assisted in transitioning from Sage to SAP HANA ERP, aiding in data migration and reporting setup. Constructed advanced Excel financial models for budgeting and variance analysis. Additionally, mentored interns within the Reporting and Budgeting department.

Supported the implementation and configuration of accounting and ERP software solutions for clients. Played a role in client onboarding, performed system setups, and facilitated user training on financial software platforms. Gained practical experience in ERP workflows, chart of accounts design, and financial data migration.

Assisted in the planning and execution of external audits for various clients, including Maqbool Textile and Unilever Pakistan, under ISA frameworks. Engaged in review engagements and performed auditing tasks such as vouching, compliance testing, and internal control documentation. Participated in the implementation of Oracle ERP at a client site, aiding in data setup and financial reporting workflows. Independently prepared audit working papers and communicated directly with client management to collect audit evidence.