Sharon Paterson
Summary
Finance & Operations Assistant with 30+ years of hands-on experience managing purchase and sales ledgers, accounts payable/receivable, and bank reconciliations using Xero and other finance systems. Skilled at resolving client and supplier queries, improving cash control through diligent debt chasing and payment runs, and identifying cost savings via subscription audits and process improvements. High confidentiality practices. Combined financial, administrative, operational and reception skills with a personable approach to ensure operational efficiency and a positive experience with colleagues, clients and suppliers.
Overview
40
40
years of professional experience
Work history
Finance & Operations Assistant
Tayburn Holdings Ltd / Lewis Ltd / Limitless
Edinburgh
1993.04 - 2026.02
- Managed both purchase and sales ledgers to high standard resolving supplier/client queries, enhancing positive relationships to support healthy cash management
- Liaised with project managers/colleagues ensuring budgets/timesheets were completed correctly and on time ensuring cost efficiencies
- Managed company subscriptions by conducting quarterly audits to reallocate or terminate services ensuring financial savings
- Organised and updated files for accurate record-keeping purposes
- Performed bank reconciliations daily and monthly using financial software to verify transactions and process ad-hoc and monthly payment runs efficiently
- Processed manual expenses, company credit cards and managed petty cash
- Supported audit preparation alongside Finance Director
- Used Online Password Manager to keep all company passwords safe and in one place to help with data security
- Maintained office stationery supplies and supported general office operations ie replenishing canteen supplies, organising cleaners, recycling for office, liaised with landlord re office maintenance and safety requirements
- Provided reception cover when required
- Systems used: Xero, Synergistic, Microsoft Office, Google, Blue Jay, Citibank, Sage, Workflow Max, PLEO, Lastpass
Book Keeper (Part Time)
WM Solutions
Edinburgh
2024.04 - 2026.01
- Assisted in performing weekly and monthly bank reconciliations using Xero.
- Resolved client and supplier queries promptly and effectively.
Accounts Assistant (Part Time)
Skakel & Skakel Ltd/ Studio SP Ltd
Edinburgh
2004.12 - 2011.03
- Managed both purchase and sales ledgers including purchase orders
- Dealt with client and supplier queries quickly and efficiently
- Completed weekly/monthly bank reconciliations and prepared payment runs for approval
- Processed manual expenses and company credit card transactions
- Managed petty cash and maintained accurate financial records
- Prepared quarterly VAT Returns and supported audit preparation
Junior Admin/Finance Assistant
Dean Park Associates
Edinburgh
1986.03 - 1993.03
- Supported small office daily with reception, administrative and finance duties
- Maintained petty cash and completed banking duties
- Processed purchase invoices and raised sales invoices
- Maintained accurate financial ledgers and filing systems
Education
O Grade -
Leith Academy
Edinburgh /1981 - /1986
Skills
- Xero accounting proficiency
- Management information systems
- Accounts payable and receivable
- Debt control expertise
- Invoice coding skills
- PLEO expense management
- Account reconciliation knowledge
- Supplier onboarding
- Audit assistance
- Reception duties
- Confidentiality procedures
- Time efficiency
- Data entry accuracy
- Microsoft Office proficiency
- Supply ordering skills
Personal Information
Title: Finance Administrator & Operational Assistant
References
Any references are available on request.
Timeline
Book Keeper (Part Time)
WM Solutions
2024.04 - 2026.01
Accounts Assistant (Part Time)
Skakel & Skakel Ltd/ Studio SP Ltd
2004.12 - 2011.03
Finance & Operations Assistant
Tayburn Holdings Ltd / Lewis Ltd / Limitless
1993.04 - 2026.02
Junior Admin/Finance Assistant
Dean Park Associates
1986.03 - 1993.03
O Grade -
Leith Academy
/1981 - /1986