Finance and Administration Assistant in Lancaster

Blackpool Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) is here to make a real difference to the local area. By working closely with businesses and the wider community, we aim to create a place where businesses can grow and visitors feel welcome. The postholder will join us at an exciting time, following a successful ballot in 2026, as Blackpool BIDs embarks on a new five‑year term with new business plan objectives and priorities. Blackpool BIDs Limited oversees two key areas: the Town Centre BID and the Tourism BID. Together, these represent over 500 hereditaments that pay into the BID levy. Both BIDs focus on delivering practical outcomes outlined in their 2026–2031 business plans.

The Role

This is an exciting chance to play a key role in Blackpool BIDs Limited. As the Finance and Administration Assistant, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to the local economy and build lasting relationships across Blackpool’s business community. This means getting to the heart of what matters to local businesses, shaping plans, and ensuring business voices are heard.

Job Summary

We’re looking for an organised and enthusiastic Finance and Administration Assistant to provide essential support to the Managing Director and other key stakeholder groups, including the Tourism and Town Centre BID management teams, the Finance & Governance Group, and the Board of Directors. You’ll need to be detail‑focused, an excellent communicator, and passionate about supporting the Blackpool business community to grow and thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and budgetary support to the Managing Director and the Board.
• Oversee external providers, suppliers, and service‑level agreements.
• Ensure transparency and good governance in all BID activities.
• Organise quarterly management group meetings, prepare agendas, and take minutes.
• Monitor and ensure timely completion of meeting actions.
• Act as the first point of contact for enquiries, directing them appropriately.
• Lead the implementation of the CRM system (Vicinity), keeping records accurate and up to date.
• Assist with the planning and delivery of BID events and initiatives.
• Manage HR records, office supplies, and day‑to‑day administrative processes.
• Perform bookkeeping tasks using SAGE online software, including:
• Inputting invoices for payment and raising purchase orders.
• Producing monthly management reports.
• Conducting weekly bank reconciliations and petty cash reconciliations.
• Prepare VAT returns for submission.
• Support end of financial year process.
• Liaise with appointed accountants and respond to queries.
• Ensure all activities comply with relevant laws, including data protection and health and safety regulations.

Qualifications and Experience

• Strong organisational and time‑management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• A proactive approach to problem‑solving and managing multiple tasks.
• Experience in bookkeeping, including invoice processing and financial reporting.
• Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems.
• Experience in a membership‑based organisation.
• Knowledge of Blackpool’s local business landscape.
• Familiarity with Business Improvement Districts (BIDs).
• Understanding of marketing tools, including social media and use of Mailchimp.
• Proficiency in SAGE online accounting software.

What We Offer

• 22 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.
• Access to an Employee Assistance Programme for health and well‑being.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, with further supported training available for the right candidate.
• A friendly, supportive work environment.

This role is office‑based in Blackpool Town Centre. We are committed to ensuring no unjustified discrimination in recruitment, training, or development based on age, sexuality, religion, belief, race, gender, or disability.

Job Type: Full‑time

Pay: £28,500.00 per year