At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team to improve invoicing processes and ensure timely payments.
- Company: Join the Student Awards Agency Scotland, a supportive and dynamic workplace.
- Benefits: Fixed term role with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values innovation and efficiency in finance.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in supporting students while enhancing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in team leadership and process improvement is essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Are you able to lead a team through a period of change and continuous improvement? The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) is looking for a confident and supportive Team Leader to manage and further develop the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA) Invoicing Team. This role offers an opportunity to lead people, improve processes, and ensure suppliers are paid accurately and on time.
The DSA Invoicing Team sits within the wider Finance function and is responsible for processing around 60,000 invoices annually to approximately 600 suppliers through the Student Support System (STEPS). A significant proportion of this activity is automated, and the team must consistently meet timescales while ensuring compliance with policy and the effective use of public funds.
You will provide day‑to‑day leadership to the team, oversee performance and quality, and work closely with colleagues across Finance, Operations, Policy, and Fraud to ensure DSA processes remain robust, efficient, and fit for purpose.
This post also plays a key role in supporting automation, responding to change, and contributing to wider system replacement and service improvement work, making it an ideal opportunity for someone who enjoys balancing operational delivery with development and improvement.
This is a Fixed Term Appointment for 24 months.
DSA Invoicing employer: Scottish Government
The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values continuous improvement and employee development. As a Team Leader in the DSA Invoicing Team, you will have the opportunity to lead a dedicated group while contributing to meaningful public service, with a focus on automation and process enhancement. Located in a dynamic environment, SAAS provides a unique chance to make a significant impact on student support services, ensuring compliance and efficiency in financial operations.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land DSA Invoicing
✨Join Financial Networking Events
Jump into local finance meetups and conferences — they’re a goldmine for temporary roles in banking and financial services. You can chat with industry professionals and even get leads on upcoming opportunities that might not be posted online yet.
✨Utilise Temp Agencies Specialised in Finance
Reach out to temp agencies that focus on the banking sector. They often have strong ties with various firms and can help you secure short-term gigs that can help beef up your CV and get your foot in the door at firms like Scottish Government.
✨Connect with Alumni from Your Uni
Don't underestimate the power of your university’s alumni network. Many former students are working in banking and can help you find temporary roles or even offer mentorship. Reach out directly or attend alumni events to broaden your circle.
✨Stay Active on Job Boards and Company Websites
Keep your eyes peeled on job boards specifically for finance roles. Companies like Scottish Government might post temporary positions directly on their sites, so make sure to apply there too. Set alerts to catch those roles the moment they go live!
We think you need these skills to ace DSA Invoicing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:In banking and financial services, your academic record can really make you stand out. List relevant grades, certifications, or coursework on your CV, especially if you've taken finance-related modules. This is particularly important for a temporary role where qualifications can help you shine even brighter!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you’ve done any internships, part-time roles, or even coursework that aligns with banking or finance, make sure you include those! Showcase specific tasks where you used quantitative skills or analytical thinking, as this is what the hiring managers at Scottish Government will be keen to see in your application.
Tailor Your Cover Letter Purposefully:When writing your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a temporary position at Scottish Government. Let them know how you can quickly adapt to the team's needs and how eager you are to learn the ropes of the banking sector during this short stint. Your motivation and enthusiasm could really set you apart!
Be Prepared with References:For temporary roles, references can play a crucial role in your application. Make sure you’ve got a couple of references lined up who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. This helps to give Scottish Government confidence in your short-term commitment to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Brush Up on Financial Regulations
Since this is a role in banking and financial services, be ready to discuss key regulations like MiFID, Basel III, or GDPR. These are hot topics, and your awareness of how they impact daily operations can give you a significant edge during your interview with Scottish Government.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare for interview questions that assess your analytical abilities. You might need to tackle hypothetical scenarios involving risk assessment or financial forecasting. Bringing examples of relevant projects or coursework can emphasise your practical understanding of these concepts.
✨Highlight Flexibility and Adaptability
For a temporary role, showing that you can quickly pick up new processes and tools is crucial. Be ready to discuss previous experiences where you had to adapt to changing requirements or tight deadlines, as this will reassure Scottish Government that you’re a reliable team player.
✨Demonstrate a Willingness to Learn
In a temporary position, leaning into your eagerness to learn can really set you apart. Be prepared to share how you’re staying updated on industry trends or any additional training you've pursued. Employers appreciate candidates who are proactive about their development—even for short-term roles.
