At a Glance
- Tasks: Support finance operations and ensure accurate accounting for our academies.
- Company: Join a high-performing Multi-Academy Trust dedicated to putting students first.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working opportunities, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and development across multiple academies.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education while building your finance career.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including English and Maths; AAT or ACCA qualification is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 28153 - 29071 £ per year.
Role: Regional Finance Assistant
Academy: Wakefield Region (Initially based at Outwood Grange Academy, with future flexibility to support other local academies in the region)
Start Date: ASAP
Actual Salary: £28,153 - £29,071
Working Pattern: 37 Hours Per Week, Monday to Friday, Whole Year.
Are you a detail-orientated finance professional looking to build a rewarding career within a high-performing Multi-Academy Trust? At Outwood Grange Academies Trust, we place Students First in everything we do. We are seeking a proactive Regional Finance Assistant to join our dedicated team. Initially based at Outwood Grange Academy in Wakefield, this dynamic role offers the opportunity to provide crucial financial support locally, with future flexibility to work across our Wakefield region academies as their finance functions evolve.
The Role
Working closely with our Finance Managers, you will deliver efficient transactional accounting and clerical support across the Trust. Key duties include processing daily accounting entries, maintaining sub-ledgers, and completing monthly balance sheet reconciliations. You will oversee purchasing to ensure best value from suppliers, manage physical cash banking, and coordinate travel and transport bookings for school trips. Additionally, you will serve as a primary contact for finance queries from Heads of Faculty, parents, and external contractors.
About You
You will possess 5 GCSEs (A*–C / 9–4) including English and Maths, with an AAT or ACCA qualification (or active study towards one) considered a strong advantage. Highly proficient in Microsoft Excel and computerized financial systems, you bring exceptional analytical skills, strong attention to detail, and a talent for prioritizing workloads under pressure. Excellent communication skills, absolute discretion, and a collaborative mindset are essential.
Requirements
Appointment is subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check and full adherence to Trust Child Safeguarding procedures.
Responsibilities
The Finance Assistant provides financial administrative support by undertaking transactional accounting and clerical duties. Key responsibilities involve carrying out all financial procedures accurately and timely. Duties include making accounting entries manually and via financial systems, monthly balance sheet reconciliation, and managing physical cash collection and banking. The role co-ordinates the purchase of goods and supplies, ensuring the school obtains best value for money. The Finance Assistant also deals with queries regarding suppliers and budget account holders, and organises staff business travel and transport for school visits.
Qualifications
Candidates must be ICT literate, skilled at using Microsoft Excel, and comfortable using other Microsoft applications. Essential skills include excellent analytical skills with great attention to detail. Requires the ability to work accurately and efficiently under pressure, and to deal with orders, invoices, and payment reconciliations. An Accountancy qualification or studying towards one (AAT, ACCA, etc.) is desirable.
Finance Assistant in Wakefield employer: Outwood
Outwood Grange Academies Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within the education sector. As a Finance Manager, you will not only play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of multiple academies but also benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional development and community engagement. With a commitment to high standards and transformative practices, working here means being part of a forward-thinking team that truly values its employees and their contributions to student success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant in Wakefield
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Outwood. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant in Wakefield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Outwood.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Outwood's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Outwood
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Outwood.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Outwood will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Outwood employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
