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 available after probation; great career growth opportunities await!
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' success while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in credit control and excellent communication skills are essential.
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’ll 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’ll be responsible for receipting cash, credit card and cheque payments for banking, in accordance with Finance operating procedures, and you’ll operate the petty cash till for payment claims when required.
We’re 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 13th 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 Merton employer: Merton College
Contact Detail:
Merton College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable in Merton
✨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
Show off your IT skills! Familiarise yourself with the software mentioned in the job description, like Excel and accounting software. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Merton College!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Officer - Accounts Receivable in Merton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Finance Officer role. Highlight your experience in credit control and customer service, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in managing deadlines and handling queries.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re interested in joining our Accounts Receivable team at Merton College. Mention how your background aligns with our needs and don’t forget to show off your communication skills!
Showcase Your IT Skills: Since strong IT proficiency is essential, make sure to mention your experience with Adobe, Excel, Outlook, Word, and any accounting software you’ve used. We want to see that you’re comfortable with technology and can hit the ground running.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Merton College
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Officer, you'll be dealing with accounts receivable and credit control. Brush up on your financial terminology and processes related to invoicing and debt collection. Be ready to discuss your previous experiences in managing sales ledgers and resolving customer queries.
✨Showcase Your IT Skills
This role requires strong IT proficiency, so make sure you’re comfortable discussing your experience with Adobe, Excel, Outlook, Word, and any accounting software you've used. Consider preparing examples of how you've used these tools to improve efficiency or accuracy in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Merton College values collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked effectively within a team. Highlight situations where you’ve managed deadlines while juggling multiple tasks, showcasing your organisational skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.
✨Communicate Clearly
Outstanding communication skills are essential for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a few questions to ask the interviewers about their processes or team dynamics, showing your interest and engagement.