Finance Assistant

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

Job summary

An educational institution in Cambridge seeks a Finance Assistant to manage the Purchase Ledger and collaborate with the Management Accountant. Responsibilities include processing invoices, conducting cost analysis, and maintaining financial records. The ideal candidate will have relevant experience and strong communication skills, suitable for a dynamic finance environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar finance role within a complex environment.
• Strong understanding of financial systems and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Run the Purchase Ledger and manage invoice processes.
• Assist in cost analysis and control.
• Prepare supplier and ad-hoc payments.

Skills

Financial management understanding

Excellent communication skills

Organisational skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

GCSEs or equivalent

Tools

Accounting system software

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.

Key duties & 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 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 practice 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.

Person Specification

• 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.