At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial operations and ensure smooth management of financial services.
- Company: Join our Town Council team and make a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, and discounts on bikes and tech.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and making a positive impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a thriving coastal community and contribute to its success.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 4 or equivalent experience in finance or accounting.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are looking for a motivated and detail orientated Finance Assistant to join our Town Council team on a 12-month fixed-term basis. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in supporting the smooth and effective operation of our financial services. Reporting to the Chief Finance Officer, you will provide comprehensive financial, administrative, and clerical support across a wide range of activities, helping ensure strong financial management, compliance and reporting.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Processing & Administration
- Maintain purchase and sale ledgers, including processing invoices and monitoring outstanding payments
- Process payments (including BACS) accurately and on time
- Reconcile supplier statements and resolve discrepancies
- Manage petty cash and support banking and reconciliations
- Financial Management Support
- Assist with budget preparation, monitoring and reporting
- Support month-end and year-end processes
- Maintain accurate financial records and contribute to financial reporting
- Payroll & Payments
- Support procurement processes and maintain accurate records
- Assist with monitoring contracts such as utilities and services
- Governance & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to financial regulations and internal controls
- Assist with audit preparation and information requests
- Additional Responsibilities
- Support grant administration, asset register maintenance and insurance processes
- Maintain financial systems and produce reports
- Provide guidance to colleagues and work collaboratively with stakeholders
Essential Criteria
- AAT Level 4 or equivalent experience
- Experience in finance, accounting or bookkeeping
- Strong understanding of financial processes (invoicing, reconciliations, payments)
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial systems
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines
Desirable Criteria
- Experience within local government or public sector finance
- Knowledge of payroll, procurement, or grant administration
Benefits:
- Competitive Salary
- Cycle to Work and Tech schemes: Get discounts off Bicycles, Bicycle accessories, Tech, Gadgets and much more!
- 25 Days Annual Leave in addition to Public and Bank Holidays (pro rata). This rises to 28 Days Annual Leave after 5 years service. Continuous service does apply and previous service within a Local Authority will count.
- Opportunity to make a positive impact in a thriving coastal community!
Join us in shaping a bright future for Newquay and its residents. Your experience can make a significant contribution to our community's success. Apply today and be a part of our journey!
Deadline: Friday 10th July 2026
Please note that depending on the number of applicants received, this role may close earlier than the deadline.
Finance Assistant (12-Month Fixed Term Contract) in Cornwall employer: Newquay Town Council
Join our Town Council team as a Finance Assistant and enjoy a supportive work culture that values your contributions to the community. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth, you will play a vital role in ensuring effective financial management while making a positive impact in the thriving coastal town of Newquay. Embrace the chance to develop your skills in a collaborative environment dedicated to serving its residents.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant (12-Month Fixed Term Contract) in Cornwall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in finance or local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Town Council and its financial operations. Knowing their recent projects or challenges can help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to finance and administration. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to build confidence and refine your responses, especially around your experience with invoicing and reconciliations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact in the community.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant (12-Month Fixed Term Contract) in Cornwall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in finance and administration. We want to see how your skills match the key responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
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 Assistant role. Be sure to mention your attention to detail and organisational skills, as these are crucial for the position.
Showcase Your Financial Knowledge:We’re looking for someone with a strong understanding of financial processes. In your application, highlight any specific experiences you have with invoicing, reconciliations, or payroll. This will help us see your expertise right away!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do – just follow the prompts and submit your documents!
How to prepare for a job interview at Newquay Town Council
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around invoicing, reconciliations, and payments. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to talk about how you manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. Think of a time when you successfully juggled multiple tasks and how you ensured everything was completed accurately and on time.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Financial Systems
Since proficiency in financial systems is key, make sure you can discuss any relevant software you've used. If you have experience with Microsoft Excel, be prepared to share how you've used it for financial reporting or data analysis.
✨Understand the Role of Compliance
Research the importance of financial regulations and internal controls. Be ready to explain how you ensure compliance in your work and provide examples of how you've contributed to audit preparations or maintained accurate financial records.
