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- Tasks: Support finance management and assist with transactions in Xero software.
- Company: Join Oxford Summer Courses, a dynamic education-focused company making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, training opportunities, and 25 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Be part of a team that empowers students and promotes learning without limits.
- Qualifications: Interest in finance, good communication skills, and attention to detail required.
- Other info: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early application is encouraged.
Location: Oxford
Contract type: Fixed term until September 2025
Start: June 2025
Reports to: Finance Director
Working pattern: 24 hours across Monday - Friday (flexibility on days and hours)
Salary: £12.35 per hour
Oxford Summer Courses is seeking a dynamic Finance Assistant with a passion for education to join our fast-growing company on a fixed-term basis. You will be an essential member of the team, helping manage our finances as we deliver academic courses to over 2500 students in Summer 2025.
Main duties:
- Assist with the management and reconciliation of transactions in Xero Accounting Software.
- Manage spending by on-course teams during the course delivery period, ensuring all transactions are supported with invoices/receipts.
- Assist with the payment of invoices and distribution of remittance advices.
- Liaise with Operations and HR teams during seasonal staff onboarding and payroll preparation.
- Support on-course teams with any financial queries.
- Assist with the expense management system.
- Onboard seasonal staff onto finance systems and manage spend.
- Perform ad hoc tasks as required.
Essential:
- Interested in working in finance.
- Good team player with the ability to communicate effectively.
- Friendly and engaging with a strong work ethic; a team player with high standards.
- Proactive and able to use initiative.
- Accuracy and attention to detail.
- Ability to use Excel and Word.
Desirable:
- Experience in bookkeeping and financial administration.
- Experience using Xero Accounting Software.
- Interest in and/or experience of working in the education sector.
What is in it for you:
- Training and professional development
- 25 days annual leave (pro rata)
- Flexible and hybrid working within the operational needs of the role
- Excellent team culture
Application Details:
Deadline: 12 April 2025. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis before this end date, early application is encouraged. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should we receive enough applicants.
Oxford Summer Courses is committed to safeguarding and protecting children. We check references and undertake enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks to ensure all our staff are suitable to work with children.
Finance Assistant employer: Oxford Summer Courses
Contact Detail:
Oxford Summer Courses Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Xero Accounting Software before applying. Since this role involves managing transactions in Xero, having a basic understanding of how it works will give you an edge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your Excel skills, particularly in areas like data management and financial analysis. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in Excel can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for education during the interview. Since Oxford Summer Courses focuses on personalised learning, expressing your enthusiasm for helping students can resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your teamwork and communication skills. This role requires liaising with various teams, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance and administration. Emphasise any familiarity with Xero Accounting Software and your proficiency in Excel and Word, as these are essential for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for education and finance. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your attention to detail, teamwork, and proactive approach, aligning them with the job description.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills that match the job requirements, such as financial management, communication abilities, and experience with bookkeeping. Use examples to illustrate how you've successfully applied these skills in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a Finance Assistant position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Oxford Summer Courses
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Assistant, you'll be dealing with numbers daily. Brush up on your financial terminology and be prepared to discuss your experience with accounting software like Xero. Familiarity with Excel will also be crucial, so consider practising some basic functions and formulas.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role requires effective communication and teamwork. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to support on-course teams and liaise with different departments, as this will demonstrate your fit for the company culture.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Accuracy is key in finance. Prepare to discuss situations where your attention to detail made a difference, whether it was catching an error or ensuring all transactions were properly documented. You might even want to bring along a sample of your work that showcases your meticulousness.
✨Express Your Passion for Education
Since Oxford Summer Courses is focused on education, convey your enthusiasm for the sector. Share any relevant experiences or insights you have about educational programmes, and explain why you want to contribute to their mission of personalised learning.
