Assistant Finance Manager

Job Title: Deputy Finance Manager
Department: Finance
Location: Croydon / Coulsdon
Reporting to: Head of Finance
Date: June 2025

Role Overview

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Deputy Finance Manager to support the Head of Finance in leading our Finance team. This pivotal role will involve managing key ledger functions, enhancing financial accuracy, and ensuring timely processing across various finance operations. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in overseeing team performance and delivering high-quality financial reporting within a dynamic, customer-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities,Team Management & Operational Oversight

• Support the management of Payables, Receivables, and Settlements functions.

• Oversee purchase ledger activities, including:

  • Reviewing and coding supplier invoices

  • Checking and processing payments in line with agreed terms

  • Reconciling the Limited Company bank account

• Provide operational support for international funeral director payments.

• Monitor daily withdrawal reports and communicate relevant updates to the Chairman.

• Supervise the receivables function, ensuring:

  • Timely processing of customer receipts

  • Accurate handling of customer refunds

  • Resolution of complex or escalated customer complaints

• Manage company settlement approvals to ensure timely and accurate processing.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Manage Trust Withdrawals and associated reconciliations, including:

  • Administration fees

  • Matured plan balances

• Prepare monthly Direct Division Incentive Scheme reconciliations (by the 10th of each month).

• Conduct nominal ledger reconciliations and prepare payroll-related journals.

• Oversee VAT returns and solvency checks for Appointed Representatives.

• Handle PAYE submissions, dividend payments, and urgent customer refund processing.

• Assist with CRM data management and broader financial reporting tasks as required.

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in a commercial finance environment, preferably within an SME.

• Background in client management, with international experience considered an advantage.

• Strong customer service orientation with a solution-focused mindset.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.

• Proficient in Sage software, ideally Sage 200.

• Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.

• Effective team leader with the ability to mentor and support junior staff.

• Strong IT and systems skills with the ability to quickly adapt to new tools.

• AAT qualified or in the final year of study.

• Professional and confident telephone manner.

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