Finance Assistant; part-time

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive finance professional committed to supporting accurate, efficient financial operations and excellent service within a dynamic arts charity environment.

The Finance Assistant will support the effective daily running of the finance department across a variety of functions. Reporting to the Finance Manager, the role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to use initiative, and a commitment to the accurate processing of accounting transactions and financial information.

Working Hours: Part time, up to 22.5 hours per week. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Contract: Permanent

Annual Leave: 33 days FTE, including public holidays

The Finance Assistant will support the efficient and effective daily running of the finance department across a variety of functions. Reporting to the Finance Manager, the role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to use initiative, and a commitment to the accurate processing of accounting transactions and financial information.

• Accurately maintain the purchase ledger, ensuring daily processing of supplier invoices, transactions, bank payments and receipts.
• Collate and prepare the weekly supplier payment run.
• Accurately maintain the sales ledger, including generating customer invoices and credit notes, sending customer statements, and maintaining accurate customer account records.
• Oversee credit control, proactively chasing outstanding debts and escalating overdue accounts to the Finance Manager as required.
• Ensure all direct debits are accurately set up, maintained, and reconciled in a timely manner.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure delivery of service excellence.
• Accountable for managing own assigned daily, weekly, and monthly tasks.
• Support the Finance Manager to ensure month end processes are delivered on time.
• Support ad hoc postings, journal entries, and month end reporting requirements.
• Regularly complete the reconciliation of supplier statements.
• Support month end bank and balance sheet reconciliation process.
• Support the annual audit process by filing and providing required financial information to the Finance Manager and auditors as needed.
• Challenge the status quo associated with current processes and work with management to identify opportunities for process improvement and/or improved control.
• Customer care – be responsible for dealing with the public and studio members to ensure effective service and continued good relations.

• Level 2 AAT qualification or equivalent.
• Minimum 2 years of previous experience in an accounts/bookkeeping role.
• Knowledge of charity financial and accounting procedures.
• Experience of using a computerised finance system.
• Proven ability to manage a purchase & sales ledger and perform bank reconciliations.
• Strong organisational, time management and prioritisation skills, with the ability to multi-task and deliver high quality work within tight deadlines, both independently and as part of a team.
• Effective oral and written communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to challenge assumptions and practices with diplomacy and a customer-centric approach.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to use own initiative and work proactively with minimal supervision.
• Excellent IT skills, including confidence with database management and data reporting; proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word and email.