Financial Assistant

JR United Kingdom; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company seeks a Student Loan Finance Assistant to deliver excellent customer service and manage financial queries from students. The role offers a hybrid working arrangement and generous leave, focusing on providing support within a collaborative team. Ideal candidates will have relevant qualifications such as NVQ 4, experience in customer service, and a passion for problem-solving.

Benefits

30 days annual leave plus public holidays

Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme

Professional Development Opportunities

Collaborative Culture

Qualifications

• Medium-advanced level experience in Excel required.
• Experience in Higher Education, Finance, or Customer Service is essential.
• Proactive attitude with willingness to learn.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and respond to student inquiries regarding loans.
• Manage and reconcile payments from UK and international loan providers.
• Advise students on financial support options.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Organisational Skills

Analytical Skills

Customer Service

Stakeholder Management

Education

NVQ 4 or equivalent

Tools

Excel

Job description

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We are seeking a Student Loan Finance Assistant. This role centers on delivering excellent customer service to our students while supporting a small team with the efficient administration and resolution of queries related to Student Loans, both UK and Overseas. It is a hands-on operational position within a sector that differs from typical credit control functions.

• NVQ 4 or equivalent including English and Maths
• Medium-advanced level experience in Excel
• HE experience or Customer service/Sales Ledger/Credit Control experience
• Proactive, willingness to learn and an interest in problem solving
• Excellent communication skills as well as an ability to manage stakeholders at all levels
• Higher Education experience
• Prior student loan/finance experience
• Knowledge of Student Finance England

Reporting into Student Fees Manager, the primary responsibility of this role is to investigate and respond promptly and empathetically to student or sponsor inquiries, enhancing the overall customer experience with a strong focus on pastoral care. Responsibilities include:

• Manage and reconcile payments from UK and international loan providers, ensuring accurate disbursements to student accounts.
• Advise students on financial support options, including loans, Future Earnings Agreements (FEAs), bursaries, and scholarships.
• Maintain accurate student financial records and process adjustments in coordination with external agencies such as Student Finance England (SfE), SAAS, Sallie Mae, Stepex, FAFSA, and Veterans Affairs.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure compliance with regulations and accurate billing/crediting processes.
• Deliver excellent customer service to enhance the student experience.
• Utilise strong communication, organisational, and analytical skills to manage complex data and resolve financial queries effectively.
• Hybrid Working: Flexible hybrid working arrangement with three days per week
• Generous Leave: 30 days annual leave in addition to public holidays and scheduled University closure days
• Pension: Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme, offering competitive benefits and long-term security
• Professional Development: Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and delivering excellent service to students and staff alike