Finance Assistant - Purchase Ledger & Treasury

About this Role

Finance Assistant - Purchase Ledger & Treasury

Advantage Schools are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Finance Assistant to join our dedicated Finance Team at our Trust Central Office located at The Vale Academy, Dunstable. You willplay a key role in managing the day-to-day treasury and purchase ledgeroperations within the Trust's central finance function. This will include supporting effective cash flow management, completing bank reconciliations,processing supplier invoices and payments, maintaining accurate financial records, and resolving related queries.

You will ensure that all transactions are processed accurately and promptly, in accordance with the Trust's financial controls, internal policies, and regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication and organisational skills, excellent attention to detail, andasound understanding of accounting principles, particularly in relation totreasury, accounts payable, and purchase ledger processes.

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong communication and organisational skills, excellent attention to detail, andasound understanding of accounting principles, particularly in relation totreasury, accounts payable, and purchase ledger processes.

• Review,match, and process supplier invoices against purchase orders and delivery notesto the appropriate cost centres and account codes.
• Verify theaccuracy of invoice details and resolve any discrepancies with suppliers or internal teams.
• Maintain anup-to-date purchase order log and ensure all purchase orders are accuratelyreflected in the accounting system.

• Assist inthe preparation and execution of weekly payment runs to suppliers.
• Ensurepayments are made in accordance with agreed terms and accurately reflectoutstanding liabilities.
• Preparepayment lists and reconcile supplier accounts to ensure no outstanding paymentsor over payments occur.

• Reconcile supplier statements to the Trust's records on a monthly basis.
• Investigate and resolve any discrepancies, ensuring that all discrepancies are addressedpromptly.
• Maintain and monitor the accounts payable ledger, ensuring all transactions are accurate andup to date.

• Ensure all financial data is entered into the accounting system accurately and timely.
• Maintain electronic and paper records of invoices, payments, and supporting documentation in an organized manner.
• Assist withthe preparation of financial reports and internal audits as needed.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, addressing inquiries related topayments, invoices, and discrepancies.
• Communicate with internal departments, such as procurement and finance, to ensure timelyand accurate processing of invoices and payments.
• Collaborate with team members and management to improve processes and address any purchase ledger-related issues.
• Work closely with team members to create and implement a trust wide procurement strategy.

• Ensure all activities are carried out in compliance with internal controls, Trust policies, and financial regulations.
• Assist withVAT reporting and ensure proper documentation is maintained for tax purposes.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records for audit purposes and provide necessary supportto auditors as required.

• Support the purchase ledger team in various administrative tasks.
• Assist withmonth-end closing procedures, ensuring all relevant invoices and payments are processed.
• Provide backup support to other finance functions as needed, including accounts receivable or payroll.

• Raise sales invoices as requested by finance managers.
• Follow up on overdue sales invoices to ensure timely payment.
• Reconcile income and expenditure related to school trips.
• Reconcile charity funds, ensuring timely distribution to designated charities.
• Raise purchase orders (POs) as required.
• Undertake ad-hoc tasks as directed by finance managers.

• Posting all transactions from all bank accounts into the accounting system. Determining income sources and applicable information.
• Posting all income from parent payment systems and preparingreconciliation
• Prepare and process daily/weekly/monthly bank reconciliations for all trust bank accounts, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with cash flow forecasting and reporting to support financial planning.
• Generating all bank payments ensuring that all payment controls and processes are adhered to.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of payments, including BACS, CHAPS, and other transactions.
• Monitor and manage bank accounts across the Trust to ensure optimal cash flow.
• Support the management of investment accounts and the allocation of funds across schools.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with bank contacts.
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant treasury regulations and…