Finance Assistant - Purchase Ledger

Sandwell College; West Bromwich; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Top-Tier Salaries

35-50 days annual leave

Career development days

Cycle to Work Scheme

Exclusive discounts on onsite services

Job summary

Sandwell College is seeking a Finance Assistant (Purchase Ledger) to join our Central Finance team. You will manage purchase ledger invoices, respond to supplier queries, and ensure timely supplier payments.

The role requires GCSEs including English and Maths, experience in an accounting environment, good Excel skills, and a high level of accuracy. You will support month-end, budget monitoring and provide training on finance procedures.

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent), including English and Maths.
• Experience of working within an accounting or finance environment.
• Experience using computerised accounting systems.
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Strong organisational and administrative abilities.
• Excellent accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines.
• Proactive approach with ability to work independently or in a team.
• An accounting qualification or working towards one would be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Process purchase ledger invoices accurately and efficiently.
• Respond to supplier queries by telephone, email and in person, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
• Process supplier payment runs in line with College procedures.
• Process credit card transactions and support cash office banking activities.
• Assist with bank reconciliations as required.
• Receive cash and card payments.
• Support month-end and year-end financial processes.
• Provide guidance and training to colleagues on finance systems and procedures.
• Manage Finance team's telephone enquiries and shared email inbox.
• Assist with budget setting and monitoring activities.
• Support the sales ledger function when required, including raising invoices and assisting with debt collection.

Skills

Microsoft Excel

Communication skills

Organisation

Attention to detail

Time management

Teamwork

Proactive approach

Computerised accounting systems

Education

GCSEs (incl. English & Maths)

Accounting qualification (advantageous)

Job description

Are you an organised and detail-oriented finance professional looking to develop your career within a supportive and forward-thinking education environment? Sandwell College is seeking a Finance Assistant (Purchase Ledger) to join our Finance team.

Application Deadline: 28 August 2026

Department: Central Finance

Location: Sandwell College

Compensation: £24,408 - £28,278 / year

Key Responsibilities

• Process purchase ledger invoices accurately and efficiently
• Respond to supplier queries by telephone, email and face-to-face, resolving issues promptly and professionally
• Process supplier payment runs in line with College financial procedures
• Process credit card transactions and support cash office banking activities
• Assist with bank reconciliations when required
• Receive cash and card payments
• Support month-end and year-end financial processes.
• Provide guidance and training to colleagues on finance systems and financial procedures
• Manage the Finance team's telephone enquiries and shared email inbox
• Assist with budget setting and budget monitoring activities
• Support the sales ledger function when required, including raising invoices and assisting with debt collection

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• GCSEs (or equivalent), including English and Maths
• Experience of working within an accounting or finance environment
• Experience using computerised accounting systems
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Strong organisational and administrative abilities
• Excellent accuracy and attention to detail
• The ability to prioritise work and meet tight deadlines
• A proactive approach with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• A recognised accounting qualification, or be working towards one, would be advantageous

Benefits

• Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around
• Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays AND extra time off at Christmas – because work-life balance is essential
• Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed
• Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute
• Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more
• Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best
• Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles
• Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount
• Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning
• Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you
• Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health
• We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year.