At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial administration for supported accommodation services and liaise with local councils.
- Company: Porchlight, a charity dedicated to combating homelessness in Kent.
- Benefits: Permanent contract, hybrid working, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow in a dynamic role focused on social impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Foundation in accounts work and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
As part of its work to combat Homelessness in Kent, Porchlight manages several properties across the county, providing a variety of supported accommodation services to those in need. This role within the Finance team will focus on the financial administration of those services, with the support of the Management Accountant. You will work closely with the Housing Management and Supported Accommodation teams, ensuring and improving the regular flow of information, and the update of shared databases. You will be responsible for the weekly invoicing for rental income, and the processing of Housing Benefits received from local authorities. You will also regularly liaise with local councils on matters of Housing Benefit and Council Tax, and with suppliers of gas, electricity and water utilities.
The role requires:
- A solid foundation in accounts work, and attention to detail when handling financial data.
- Strong communication abilities, whether working with different teams in the organisation, or externally.
- The organisational skills to manage priorities and develop processes to changing needs.
Porchlight is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.
Working pattern: 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday
Location: Canterbury, hybrid working available
Contract type: Permanent
Interview date: 29th July 2026
Finance Assistant (Housing) in Canterbury employer: Porchlight
Porchlight is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, the organisation offers generous benefits such as annual leave, a robust pension scheme, and access to mental health first aiders, ensuring that staff feel valued and cared for. Located in Kent & Medway, the Mental Health Together Navigator role provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while benefiting from professional growth and development within a collaborative team of passionate individuals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant (Housing) in Canterbury
✨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 Porchlight. 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 (Housing) in Canterbury
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 Porchlight.
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 Porchlight'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 Porchlight
✨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 Porchlight.
✨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 Porchlight 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 Porchlight 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.
