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- Tasks: Join us as a Payroll and Finance Assistant, handling payroll and accounting tasks daily.
- Company: Fairfield School of Business offers industry-relevant qualifications across multiple campuses in the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy a supportive work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that values inclusivity and access to education.
- Qualifications: AAT Intermediate Level or equivalent experience, plus strong Excel skills required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, permanent role based in person.
Fairfield School of Business (FSB), an OFS registered private higher education provider founded in 2006 with campuses in London, Birmingham, Leicester, Sheffield and Luton. We provide industry-relevant qualifications in business, digital marketing, criminology, counselling and healthcare management in partnership with three leading UK universities. Also, we provide Masters and MBA degrees.
Is your CV ready If so, and you are confident this is the role for you, make sure to apply asap.
Our focus is to offer an open and inclusive learning and teaching environment for both students and staff. We are also committed to providing access to higher education to those who may not have formal qualifications, financial means or can commit to the schedule of a mainstream university.
Job Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented and organised Finance and Payroll Assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll, while also supporting various accounting functions. This position requires a strong understanding of payroll processes, accounting software, and human resources systems.
Key Responsibilities and Accountability:
* To undertake book-keeping duties for multiple colleges
* Input financial data into Excel spreadsheets
* Upload financial data into Sage software
* Reconcile student/supplier invoices
* Undertake other duties from time to time as may be reasonably required by the management of the College
* To utilise working hours effectively (during off term periods) you may be asked to help with different tasks in other department areas as directed by the Management.
* Reconcile any discrepancies or errors identified by conversing with employees and/or clients
* Report any troubling discoveries or suspicion of wrongdoing to the proper authorities
* Assist the financial director in creating financial reports on a regular basis
* Adhere to the company\’s or organisation\’s financial policies and procedures
* Attend finance department and company-wide meetings, sometimes assisting with financial reporting to managers and senior executives
* Suggest changes or improvements to increase accuracy, efficiency, and cost reductions.
Skills and Qualifications:
* Good communication and interpersonal skills
* Minimum of AAT Intermediate Level (Level 3) – or depending on experience
* Microsoft Excel – minimum \’Intermediate Level\’ needed – to include pivot tables for cost reports and breakdowns).
* Experience of basic VAT returns
* Self-starter and able to manage own workload
* Experience of purchase ledger
* Knowledge on Sage
* Management accounts – prior experience of producing accounts to at least trial balance level would be an advantage
* Ability to deal with occasional complex ad-hoc requests – must be comfortable with analysing information and putting into a suitable format.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Work Location: In person
Payroll and Finance Assistant employer: Fairfield School of Business
Contact Detail:
Fairfield School of Business Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll and Finance Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sage software, as it's a key requirement for the role. Consider taking an online course or tutorial to boost your confidence and skills in using this accounting tool.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Excel skills, especially pivot tables, since they are essential for cost reports. Practising with real data sets can help you become more proficient and demonstrate your capabilities during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in finance and payroll sectors. Attend local meetups or online webinars to connect with others who might provide insights or even referrals for the position at FSB.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with bookkeeping and VAT returns in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've handled discrepancies or improved processes in previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll and Finance Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities of a Payroll and Finance Assistant. Emphasise your proficiency in payroll processes, accounting software, and Excel.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle bookkeeping duties and financial reporting.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in Microsoft Excel, Sage software, and any experience with VAT returns or management accounts. This will show that you meet the qualifications they are looking for.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fairfield School of Business
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your payroll processes and accounting principles. Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial data, especially in relation to Excel and Sage software, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since the role involves reconciling discrepancies and conversing with employees or clients, demonstrate your good communication and interpersonal skills during the interview. Share examples of how you've effectively resolved issues in the past.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that test your problem-solving abilities, especially regarding complex ad-hoc requests. Prepare to explain how you would analyse information and present it in a suitable format.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
The job may require you to assist in different departments during off-term periods. Emphasise your flexibility and willingness to take on various tasks, showcasing your ability to manage your workload effectively.
