At a Glance
- Tasks: Produce financial reports and support strategic projects to drive informed decision-making.
- Company: Join Sandwell College's dynamic Finance team with a focus on collaboration and improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salaries, generous leave, and exclusive discounts on services and travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or part-qualified with strong analytical and communication skills.
- Other info: Fast-track your career with dedicated development days and excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 35300 - 39800 £ per year.
We are seeking a proactive and analytical Reporting & Project Accountant to join our Finance team at Sandwell College. This is a key role supporting financial reporting, strategic projects, and budget management across the College, working closely with senior leaders and budget holders to drive informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
As Reporting & Project Accountant, you will play a central role in corporate financial reporting and financial analysis, helping both finance and non-finance colleagues to understand financial information and take effective action. You will support the Director of Finance with strategic projects, financial modelling, and process improvement initiatives, while also contributing to the development of finance systems and reporting tools. This is a varied and adaptable role, ideal for a part-qualified accountant who enjoys working collaboratively, improving processes, and adding value through high-quality financial insight.
Key Responsibilities- Produce corporate financial reports, including capital reporting and curriculum contribution analysis
- Improve the quality and clarity of financial reporting for non-finance stakeholders
- Act as a key point of contact for designated budget holders, providing guidance on performance and forecasting
- Analyse expenditure trends and deliver actionable insights to improve efficiency and value for money
- Support cost-saving initiatives and financial planning activities
- Assist with projects, financial modelling, and strategic initiatives as directed
- Contribute to the preparation of annual financial statements and audit documentation
- Support, train, and supervise finance staff as required
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems and processes
- Undertake additional duties to support Finance team and College objectives
- AAT qualified or part-qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or CIPFA)
- Minimum of two years' experience in a similar role
- Strong analytical skills with excellent attention to detail
- Ability to analyse complex financial data and present it clearly
- Experience supporting non-finance colleagues to understand financial information
- Strong Excel skills, including pivot tables and complex formulas
- Experience of financial accounting systems
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work collaboratively as part of a team
- Project management qualification
- Experience of spend analytics and value-for-money initiatives
- Knowledge of FE funding methodologies
- Experience working within Further Education or the wider public sector
- Experience using AI tools in the workplace
- Top-Tier Salaries – We offer sector-leading pay with some of the most competitive salaries around
- Unbeatable Time Off – Enjoy 35-50 days of annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays and extra time off at Christmas
- Fast-Track Your Career – Take advantage of dedicated development days, career pathways, and talent schemes designed to help you grow and succeed
- Cycle to Work Scheme – A healthier, greener, and more cost-effective way to commute
- Exclusive Discounts on Onsite Services – Save on Bliss Hair & Beauty Salon, dog grooming, car health checks, and more
- Fitness Perks – Enjoy our college gym facilities or discounted rates at local gyms to keep you feeling your best
- Generous Pension Contributions – We invest in your future with 23.68% employer contribution for teaching roles and 21.5% for non-teaching roles
- Retail & Travel Discounts – Unlock exclusive savings on high street brands, local transport, cross-country travel. UNIDAYS, Student Beans and Blue Light Discount
- Free Will Writing – We’ve got your back with professional support for your future planning
- Free Flu Vaccine – Stay healthy and protected at no cost to you
- Wellbeing Support – Access confidential counselling services and wellness platforms to support your mental and emotional health
- We Celebrate You! – We recognise and appreciate your hard work with awards, recognition events, and celebration days throughout the year
Reporting & Project Accountant employer: Sandwell College
Contact Detail:
Sandwell College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reporting & Project Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance sector, especially those who work at Sandwell College or similar institutions. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your financial reporting skills. Be ready to discuss how you've improved processes in past roles and how you can bring that expertise to the Reporting & Project Accountant position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've turned complex financial data into clear insights for non-finance colleagues. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively and add value.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Reporting & Project Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Reporting & Project Accountant role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your analytical skills and financial reporting expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to support financial reporting and strategic initiatives.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to highlight your strong Excel skills and any experience with financial accounting systems. We want to see how you can analyse complex data and present it clearly to non-finance colleagues.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sandwell College
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Reporting & Project Accountant, you'll need to demonstrate your analytical skills. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decision-making in previous roles. This shows you can translate complex financial information into actionable insights.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
You'll be working closely with non-finance colleagues, so it's crucial to convey financial concepts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated financial information to stakeholders in the past. This will highlight your ability to bridge the gap between finance and other departments.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities, especially around budget management and financial forecasting. Think of specific scenarios where you've improved processes or contributed to cost-saving initiatives, and be prepared to discuss the outcomes.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Financial Tools
Since strong Excel skills are essential, make sure you're comfortable with pivot tables and complex formulas. If you've used any financial accounting systems or AI tools, be ready to talk about your experience with them. This will show your technical proficiency and adaptability.