Financial Assistant

JR United Kingdom; Stoke-on-Trent; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the education sector is seeking a Student Loan Finance Assistant to enhance customer service and manage student financial inquiries. This operational role involves administration of student loans, requiring excellent communication skills and prior finance experience. The position emphasizes collaboration and offers hybrid working options, generous leave, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

30 days annual leave

Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme

Opportunities for professional development

Flexible hybrid working arrangement

Collaborative culture

Qualifications

• Medium-advanced level experience in Excel.
• Prior student loan/finance experience required.
• Ability to manage stakeholders at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and respond to student or sponsor inquiries.
• Manage and reconcile payments from loan providers.
• Advise students on financial support options.

Skills

Customer Service

Communication

Problem Solving

Organisational Skills

Analytical Skills

Education

NVQ 4 or equivalent including English and Maths

Higher Education experience

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