At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Finance Manager with payment processing and financial record maintenance.
- Company: Join READ Foundation, a charity dedicated to providing education for vulnerable children.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health insurance, and 32 days annual leave.
- Other info: Hybrid working options and opportunities for personal development available.
- Why this job: Make a difference in children's lives while gaining valuable finance experience.
- Qualifications: Education in Finance or Accounting and proficiency in accounting software required.
The predicted salary is between 26500 - 29000 £ per year.
Salary: £26,500-£29,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Part‑time, 40 hours per week
Location: Manchester M14
Reports to: Finance Manager
Closing Date: Rolling (until a suitable candidate is identified)
We are unable to sponsor applicants for visas for this particular post. Applicants must be resident in the UK and have the right to work in the UK.
About READ Foundation
READ Foundation is a UK based registered charity working to provide access to quality education to vulnerable children in our regions of work. We create opportunities for orphan and needy children to go to school, to gain an education and build a better life for themselves. We currently focus on constructing new schools, providing sponsorship for orphans and are now expanding our educational portfolio to reflect the large humanitarian and development needs ongoing throughout the world.
Purpose of Job
As the Finance Assistant, you will provide crucial support to the Finance Manager. Your role will include:
- Preparing payment trackers
- Maintaining accurate records of invoices and approvals
- Ensuring the timely processing of payments to partners, clients, and vendors
- Recording transactions in the accounting system
- Ensuring accurate allocation of expenses per budget guidelines
- Managing credit card statements
- Processing credit card payments
- Maintaining complete support documentation
- Assisting in monthly financial reviews
- Other tasks assigned by the Finance Manager
Main Responsibilities
- Prepare and maintain payment trackers
- Maintain and keep accounts payable inbox up to date
- Ensure timely processing of payments and record them in the accounting system
- Verify and reconcile invoices and share them for approvals
- Maintain up‑to‑date and accurate financial records
- Allocate expenses as per budget guidelines
- Organise and maintain all supporting documents related to payments
- Maintain and keep contracts/agreements record up to date
- Review and maintain credit card statements on a weekly basis
- Process timely payments to credit cards
- Ensure complete documentation for all credit card transactions
- Enter credit card transactions into the accounting system
- Reconcile credit card statements with accounting records
- Assist in monthly financial reviews
- Participate in financial reviews for partners and donor‑funded projects
- Contribute to the preparation of financial reports and analysis
- Provide support in booking of income into accounting system
- Any other task assigned by the supervisor
- Assist in various tasks and projects as assigned
Experience & Qualifications
- Education in Finance, Accounting, or a related field
- Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Familiarity with budget guidelines and financial reporting
Skills
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
- Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality
- Proactive and able to manage multiple tasks effectively
Special Working Conditions
- Work occasional flexible hours including evenings and weekends
- Be able to communicate in Urdu/Punjabi as well as English, as the majority of donors speak those languages
Commitment to Safeguarding and Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA)
- Adhere to READ's Safeguarding and PSEA Policies and Code of Conduct at all times.
- Report any safeguarding concerns or SEA incidents you become aware of, following READ's reporting mechanisms.
- Participate in mandatory safeguarding training and refresher sessions.
- Cooperate in good faith with any safeguarding investigations, audits, or reviews conducted by READ.
- Promote a culture of safeguarding within your respective role and ensure that safeguarding risks are identified and mitigated.
- Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment, in line with organisational policies.
Benefits
- Role specific training, development and growth opportunities
- Health insurance cash plan (including 24/7 access to GP services, discounted gym membership & counselling service) (after probationary period)
- Eye care contribution
- Hybrid working options available (some days working remotely can be discussed at time of interview)
- Occupational Pension Scheme
- Cycle to work scheme (after probationary period)
- Car salary sacrifice scheme (after probationary period)
- 32 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays and company‑wide holidays)
- Paid time off for bereavement, sick days and medical appointments
- Awards for employee of the year
- Annual years of service rewards
- Access to Bright Exchange discounts
- Annual away days/retreats involving training, teambuilding, outdoor and social activities
- Free parking in a central location
- Access to prayer facilities
- Free refreshments
READ Foundation is committed to diversity and equality of opportunity in all aspects of our work, along with encouraging a healthy work life balance. READ Foundation is an accredited National Living Wage Employer.
Finance Assistant in Manchester employer: READ Foundation UK
At READ Foundation, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable children through education. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth with role-specific training and development opportunities, while our commitment to employee well-being is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, hybrid working options, and generous annual leave. Located in Manchester, we offer a vibrant environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, all while contributing to a noble cause.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Assistant in Manchester
✨Connect with Campus Reps
If you're looking for part-time work in banking, try to connect with your university's career services and campus representatives from banks. They often host recruitment events or provide exclusive job listings, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Get Involved in Financial Societies
Join finance or investment clubs at your university. These societies not only provide fantastic networking opportunities but also often collaborate with financial institutions for internships or part-time roles, making it easier for us to land those positions.
✨Use LinkedIn for Hidden Gems
Keep an eye on LinkedIn for part-time opportunities at banks, specifically targeting roles like customer service or administrative support. Companies like READ Foundation UK often post openings there first, so be on the lookout and don’t forget to engage with their content!
✨Showcase Your Skills Directly
When applying for a part-time role, consider creating a simple portfolio that highlights your finance-related skills or projects. Whether it's a personal finance blog, a financial analysis you've done, or any relevant coursework, having this ready can impress hiring managers at READ Foundation UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game:In the banking and financial services world, it's all about numbers. Highlight any relevant coursework, grades, or certifications, like AAT or CFA, on your CV. If you can point to specific projects or tasks where you managed finances or analysed data, that's a big plus!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Us:When writing your cover letter, don’t just reiterate your CV. Tell us why you want to work at READ Foundation UK and how this part-time role fits into your career goals. Map your skills and experiences directly to the job spec, and don’t forget to weave in any technical skills you have, like experience with financial software!
Marry Experience with Availability:Since this is part-time, it’s super important to state your availability clearly in your application. Highlight any previous work experience, even if it's not directly in finance, that shows your reliability and ability to juggle various commitments. Flexibility can be a real asset!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal:While you want to keep a professional tone, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of your personality into your application. Especially for a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who's not just skilled but also a good fit for the team at READ Foundation UK. A little light-heartedness can go a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at READ Foundation UK
✨Brush Up on Your Numbers
For a role in banking and financial services, you’ll likely encounter numerical tests that gauge your analytical skills. So, let’s whip out those maths skills! Practise mental arithmetic and get comfy with basic financial concepts; this'll really help you shine during the assessment stages.
✨Know Your Financial Products
Knowing your stuff about the various financial products and services is crucial. Be prepared to discuss topics like loans, mortgages, investment funds, and credit options. Having a finger on the pulse of current market trends and economic events can also give you an edge—the interviewers will appreciate your insight!
✨Flexibility and Commitment are Key
Since you're aiming for a part-time position, emphasise your flexibility and willingness to commit your time effectively. Highlight your ability to balance studies or other commitments while delivering results at work. This kind of attitude can set you apart from the competition.
✨Showcase Your Portfolio of Experience
Even though it’s a part-time role, companies want to see your motivation and past experience. Bring examples of relevant projects or roles, including internships or coursework that demonstrate your understanding and passion for banking and finance. The more tangible your examples, the more convincing you’ll be!
