At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist students with loan queries and manage financial records.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to student support and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, 30 days leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ 4 or equivalent; experience in customer service or finance preferred.
- Other info: Work closely with various stakeholders and enhance your problem-solving abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
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.
Qualifications:
- NVQ 4 or equivalent including English and Maths
- Medium-advanced level experience in Excel
- Higher Education 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
- Prior student loan/finance experience
- Knowledge of Student Finance England
Reporting into the 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.
Benefits:
- Flexible hybrid working arrangement with three days per week
- 30 days annual leave in addition to public holidays and scheduled University closure days
- Membership in the Local Government Pension Scheme, offering competitive benefits and long-term security
- Opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career within a supportive and forward-thinking organisation
- Join a team committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and delivering excellent service to students and staff alike
Financial Assistant employer: JR United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
JR United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the various student finance options available in the UK and overseas. Understanding the nuances of loans, bursaries, and scholarships will not only help you answer queries effectively but also demonstrate your commitment to supporting students.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Excel skills, especially in data management and analysis. Being proficient in Excel will enable you to handle financial records and reconcile payments efficiently, which is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills by engaging in role-playing scenarios where you respond to student inquiries. This will help you develop a compassionate and empathetic approach, which is essential for delivering excellent customer service.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the higher education sector, particularly those involved in student finance. Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to valuable recommendations when applying.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in customer service, finance, and any specific roles related to student loans or credit control. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate your fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for helping students and your understanding of student finance. Mention your problem-solving skills and how they align with the responsibilities of the Financial Assistant role.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your medium-advanced Excel skills and any experience you have with financial record-keeping or managing queries. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles to enhance customer service.
Showcase Your Communication Abilities: In your application, illustrate your excellent communication skills by providing examples of how you've effectively managed stakeholder relationships or resolved complex queries in past positions.
How to prepare for a job interview at JR United Kingdom
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
Since the role focuses on delivering excellent customer service, be prepared to share specific examples of how you've successfully handled customer inquiries or resolved issues in the past. Highlight your ability to empathise with students and provide them with the support they need.
✨Demonstrate Financial Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with student finance options, including loans and bursaries. Be ready to discuss any relevant experience you have with financial records or student loan processes, as this will show your understanding of the role's requirements.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
The job requires a proactive approach to problem-solving. Think of situations where you've had to analyse complex data or resolve financial queries. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you arrived at a solution.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Excellent communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing your experiences and how they relate to the role. This will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your suitability for the position.