At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the finance team and ensure efficient financial operations at Reading Students’ Union.
- Company: Join a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to enhancing university experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 35 days annual leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team culture in a vibrant campus environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on student life while developing your finance career.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part-qualified accountant with significant finance management experience.
The predicted salary is between 36595 - 36595 £ per year.
A role where you can innovate and make a real impact!
About Reading Students’ Union
We are a dynamic, student-focused organisation dedicated to empowering students and enhancing their university experience. Our vision is to be a place for everyone; we inspire and empower students to change the world.
The Role:
As Finance Manager, you will be at the heart of Reading Students’ Union’s Finance team, providing senior operational leadership and expert financial support to ensure the Union operates efficiently, transparently, and in line with its charitable purpose, values, and legal obligations. You will be the trusted expert on the Union’s finances. You will be overseeing management accounts, statutory accounts, payroll, and financial systems and will be a key business partner to senior leaders, budget holders, and elected student officers. Working closely with the Director of Finance, you will help build a strong culture of effective financial management across both charitable and commercial activities, ensuring financial decisions always reflect our mission, vision, values, and ethics. You will be the line-manager of the Finance team, drive continuous improvement, support strategic delivery, and confidently deputise for the Director of Finance when required.
What you’ll do:
- Financial Reporting & Data-Driven Insight
- Ensure the accuracy and timeliness of all key financial reports to support informed decision-making.
- Prepare monthly management accounts and annual final accounts.
- Design, maintain, and analyse KPI reports to monitor financial health and operational efficiency.
- Respond promptly and accurately to requests for financial data and insights, including Board reports.
- Financial Planning & Business Partnering
- Collaborate with the Director of Finance to develop and implement long-term financial planning aligned with strategic objectives.
- Act as a trusted partner for commercial strategy, providing insights on income generation and subsidiary operations.
- Support annual budgeting and reforecasting processes, ensuring robust financial oversight.
- Operational Finance Management
- Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including invoice processing, payment runs, journal preparation, and reconciliations.
- Manage cash flow and reserves to ensure financial stability.
- Maintain aged debtor and creditor records and reconcile balance sheet accounts (prepayments, accruals, PAYE, NIC, payroll control).
- Systems, Controls & Compliance
- Control the operation of the SU’s accounting system and ensure completion of month-end and year-end procedures.
- Oversee payroll processing, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Develop and maintain accessible financial procedures aligned with best practice and audit recommendations.
- Ensure compliance with financial legislation, governance frameworks, and statutory reporting requirements (VAT returns, Charity Commission, Companies House, HMRC).
- Risk, Governance & Assurance
- Maintain an accurate and live risk register in collaboration with the Director of Finance.
- Implement robust internal financial controls across the organisation.
- Support the Finance & Risk Committee and ensure adequate insurance coverage and asset management.
- Work confidently within governance frameworks, providing assurance to senior leaders and Trustees.
- Leadership & Collaboration
- Line-manage the Finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and high performance.
- Provide training and guidance on financial processes and best practices.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including auditors and insurers.
About You
Essential
- AAT qualified or part‑qualified accountant (or willing to work towards).
- Significant experience as a Finance Manager or in a senior finance role.
- Organised, adaptable, and able to manage competing priorities in a busy and fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communicator, confident in explaining financial information to non‑finance colleagues.
- Strong numerical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills.
- Confident people manager with the ability to coach, mentor, and develop others.
- Passionate about using financial insight to support effective decision‑making.
- Evidence of ongoing CPD or professional development.
- Proven experience in:
- Producing monthly management accounts, budgets, forecasts, and cash flow reports.
- Managing day‑to‑day finance operations, including invoicing, payments, reconciliations, and payroll.
- Business partnering with budget holders and senior leaders.
- Leading the development of financial processes and controls to strengthen governance, efficiency, and effectiveness.
- Working within governance frameworks and applying good financial controls.
- Building strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners.
Desirable:
- Experience working in a charity, education, or student-focused environment.
- Knowledge of charity VAT requirements and governance frameworks.
- Experience supporting Boards, Trustees, or Finance & Risk Committees.
- Knowledge of EPOS, stock control, or electronic payment systems.
Why Join Us?
- Inclusive and supportive team culture
- Flexible working options
- 35 days annual leave including Christmas and Easter closure days
- Professional development opportunities
- Unique working environment in the heart of a vibrant Student’s Union, set on a stunning, green campus.
Ready to make bold change happen? Ready to lead the way? Join us and help shape the future of student life at Reading Students’ Union. Committed to equality, celebrating diversity, and embedding sustainability—building an inclusive workplace and a brighter future for all.
Finance Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne employer: Reading Students' Union
Reading Students’ Union is an exceptional employer that champions a dynamic and inclusive work culture, offering flexible working options and 35 days of annual leave, including closure days during Christmas and Easter. With a strong commitment to professional development and a unique working environment on the beautiful University of Reading campus, employees are empowered to innovate and make a meaningful impact in enhancing the student experience. Join us to be part of a supportive team dedicated to equality, diversity, and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
✨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 Reading Students' Union. 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 Manager in Newcastle upon Tyne
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 Reading Students' Union.
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 Reading Students' Union'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 Reading Students' Union
✨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 Reading Students' Union.
✨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 Reading Students' Union 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 Reading Students' Union 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.
