Finance Assistant

St Edmund's College; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Cambridge is seeking a Finance Assistant to support the Management Accountant in various financial tasks, including managing the Purchase Ledger, inputting invoices, and conducting cost analysis. The ideal candidate will have experience in a similar role, strong communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively. This role offers an opportunity to contribute to a dynamic Finance team within a complex environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a complex environment.
• Understanding of financial management systems and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Run the Purchase Ledger and manage email inbox.
• Input approved invoices into the accounting system.
• Assist the Management Accountant with cost analysis.

Skills

Experience within a similar role

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Excellent IT skills

Excellent organisational skills

Problem-solving and investigative skills

Education

GCSEs or equivalent / relevant experience

Tools

Financial management systems

Job description

Main Purpose St Edmund's College is seeking someone to support our Management Accountant to grow and harness the business partnering model, and to work collaboratively with the whole Finance team.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for all aspects of running the Purchase Ledger.
• Taking ownership of Purchase Ledger email Inbox, receiving invoices and sending them for approval, and solving any queries.
• Inputting all approved invoices into the accounting system using correct supplier and nominal codes, including staff expenses, credit card payments and some student related expenses.
• College Bar: Banks statements, invoices and expenses.
• Preparing supplier and other regular and ad hoc payments, including awards.
• Communicating with budget holders for approvals and other reporting.
• Assisting the Management Accountant with cost analysis and control.
• Co‑ordinating the collection of meter readings for gas and electricity meters by the maintenance team, ensuring correct payments are issued.
• Providing detailed analysis of costs as directed by the Management Accountant or College Accountant.
• Assist in the maintenance of the fixed asset registers.
• Prepare invoices for Conference & External Events and collaborate with the Conference & Events Team regarding credit control in this area.
• Recording of all transactions into the appropriate system.
• Ensure that approvals and processes are documented.
• Providing cover for other members of staff within the Finance team.
• Collect and distribute small amounts of post.
• Work with colleagues to share best practise and ensure policies are adhered to.
• Ensure the upkeep of the College, report any problems as necessary and help to keep the College litter free.
• Suggest and implement new ways of working and ideas, be an advocate for Continuous Improvement.
• Adhere to Health and Safety policies and procedures.
• Complete ad hoc tasks as required.

Qualifications

• Experience within a similar role, within a complex environment.
• GCSEs or equivalent / relevant experience.
• Knowledge and understanding of financial management systems and procedures, including accounting, cost centre management, payments, income, and banking.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent IT skills.
• Excellent organisational skills, and be comfortable working to strict deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of the Finance Team, to adapt and seek out process improvements.
• Problem‑solving and investigative skills.