Finance Officer

Job Description

Job Title: Finance Officer

Location: Ixworth, IP31 2HS

Salary: £25,584 – £30,060 per annum

Hours: 37 hours per week, 5 days a week (Alternative hours and patterns will be considered)

Job Type: Full-Time

About the Role:

The Finance Officer will be responsible for maintaining the financial system and records of the Trust’s schools. The Finance Officer will ensure compliance with the Trust’s financial policies and procedures, managing the day-to-day financial transactions for the schools in a timely and efficient manner. This role is integral to supporting the school’s financial administration, handling confidential information, and contributing to the effective financial management of the Trust.

The position is ideal for an organized and detail-oriented professional looking to further their career in school finance.

Key Responsibilities:

As a Finance Officer, your main duties will include:

• Point of Contact: Serve as the primary point of contact for all financial queries for the relevant school(s).

• Order and Invoice Processing: Process school orders and ensure that invoices are properly authorized and recorded according to the Trust’s financial rules.

• Reconciliation: Reconcile supplier statements to accounting records, including leading a Trust-wide supplier account as the account champion.

• Financial Transactions: Manage school bank accounts, credit cards, and petty cash. Raise school sales invoices and manage online payment systems (e.g., ParentPay, Wisepay).

• Budgeting Support: Assist budget holders with the effective costing and management of school-related funds, including trips and special events.

• Training and Support: Provide support and ad-hoc training to non-finance staff on financial matters and systems like Sage.

• Audit Support: Assist internal and external auditors by providing necessary financial information and documentation.

Skills and Qualifications:

The ideal Finance Officer should possess:

• Experience: Proven experience working in a busy finance environment, with prior experience in purchase and sales ledger.

• Skills: Strong communication skills, both written and oral. Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks in a busy office environment.

• Technical Skills: Competency in using financial software (e.g., Sage Intacct) and general IT systems, including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word).

• Education: Minimum of GCSEs in Maths and English (Grade 4-9). AAT qualification or current AAT studies are desirable.

• Personal Attributes: Flexible, enthusiastic, and a resilient team player with a keen eye for detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Why Join Us?

Joining our expanding multi-academy trust provides an exciting opportunity to grow within a dynamic team. As a Finance Officer, you will play a vital role in ensuring the smooth financial operation of our schools, contributing to their success and growth.

• Development: Access to continuous professional development and training opportunities.

• Supportive Environment: Join a collaborative team where your skills and experience will be valued.

• Work-Life Balance: We offer flexible hours, including the possibility of alternative working patterns.

Application Process:

To apply for the Finance Officer position, please submit your application through our online careers portal. We encourage you to apply early, as we reserve the right to close applications when sufficient candidates have been received.

About the Trust:

The Education Trust is an expanding multi-academy trust that includes both primary and secondary schools. With 22 schools across the Trust, we are dedicated to providing a high standard of education and fostering a supportive environment for staff and students alike.