At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage accounts receivable, chase debts, and process transactions in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join Merton College, a leading provider of post-16 education in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, wellbeing leave, and a strong pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid working options available after probation; great career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your finance skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in credit control and excellent communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Merton College is looking for a Finance Officer to join a busy Accounts Receivable and Credit Control team, with responsibility for chasing outstanding debt, processing transactions and maintaining the Sales Ledger database in line with the Group's financial procedures and regulations.
You will liaise with budget holders and internal teams to resolve queries raised by customers and students and will generate sales invoices from invoice requisitions, ensuring the sales ledger is updated with all cash receipts. You will be responsible for receipting cash, credit card and cheque payments for banking, in accordance with Finance operating procedures, and you will operate the petty cash till for payment claims when required.
We are seeking a candidate with proven experience in credit control processes and a strong background in dealing directly with customers, including handling a wide range of customer queries. Our ideal applicant will be an excellent team player who is able to manage deadlines effectively while juggling multiple tasks at once.
Strong attention to detail is essential, along with excellent organisational skills and the ability to work accurately, calmly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment. The role also requires strong IT proficiency, including confidence using Adobe, Excel, Outlook, Word and accounting software. In addition, outstanding communication skills both written and verbal, are required.
This role is based at Merton College in Morden, Surrey but there is an option for hybrid working (Merton College and Home) after successful completion of probationary period.
Closing date for the return of completed applications is 27th May 2026.
The benefits package includes generous annual leave of 27 days plus up to 8 additional days over Christmas/New Year as well as an additional 5 days Wellbeing leave to enhance employees' physical and mental health. There is an excellent pension scheme that receives a significant financial contribution from the employer (Teachers Pensions or Local Government Pension Scheme), subsidised sports facilities and professional development and training plus a salary sacrifice cycle to work scheme.
As part of our due diligence checks on prospective employees, successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references, an online search and proof of eligibility to work in the UK.
As outlined in the Public Sector Equality Duty of the Equality Act 2010, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
South Thames Colleges Group is made up of Carshalton College, Kingston College, Merton College and South Thames College and is one of London’s largest providers of post-16 education and training. We are an ongoing and significant contributor to our local communities and put students' success at the heart of everything we do.
We are looking for hard-working and collaborative people who can join our team and help challenge our students to achieve and progress.
Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable in London employer: Merton College
Merton College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. With generous annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and opportunities for hybrid working, we foster a collaborative environment where team players can thrive while making a meaningful impact in the education sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who might know someone at Merton College. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your credit control knowledge and customer service skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your attention to detail and ability to handle multiple tasks under pressure.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to research Merton College! Understanding their values and mission will help you tailor your responses during the interview and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in credit control and customer service. We want to see how you've handled queries and managed deadlines, so don’t hold back on those examples!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our Finance Officer role. Mention your organisational skills and attention to detail, and how they align with our needs.
Show Off Your IT Skills:We’re looking for someone who’s confident with software like Excel and accounting tools. Make sure to mention any relevant experience you have with these programs in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton College
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around credit control processes and sales ledger management. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully managed outstanding debts or resolved customer queries.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
Since strong IT proficiency is key for this role, make sure you’re comfortable discussing your experience with Adobe, Excel, Outlook, Word, and any accounting software you've used. Consider preparing a few examples of how you've used these tools to improve efficiency or accuracy in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This position requires excellent teamwork, so think of instances where you collaborated effectively with others. Be prepared to share how you’ve managed deadlines while juggling multiple tasks, and how you’ve supported your colleagues in achieving team goals.
✨Communicate Clearly
Outstanding communication skills are a must, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to answer questions about how you handle customer queries and ensure you can convey complex information in an easy-to-understand manner.
