At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage school fees collection and maintain accurate financial records.
- Company: A well-established independent co-educational school with a supportive community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 30 days holiday, and free parking.
- Why this job: Join a friendly finance team and make a difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in credit control and proficiency in Sage software.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and term-time only options available.
Job role: Credit Controller
Find out if this opportunity is a good fit by reading all of the information that follows below.
Start date: ASAP
Type: Permanent
Location: Portsmouth
Working hours: 8.30am to 4.30pm (flexibility between 8am and 5pm considered, Term time only will be also be considered)
Full time onsite
TL: Finance Manager
Salary: £28k to £32k DOE
About the Organisation
Our client is a well-established independent co-educational school with a warm, community-oriented environment and a strong reputation for academic excellence. The school provides a supportive and inclusive setting where pupils thrive both academically and personally.
About the Role
An experienced and personable Credit Controller is required to join a small and friendly finance team. Reporting to the Finance Manager, you will work alongside the Purchase Ledger Clerk to manage the school\’s accounts receivable function and ensure the timely collection of fees and payments from parents and guardians.
This is a key hands-on role that requires excellent communication skills, empathy, and professionalism when dealing with parents, alongside strong financial administration and organisational skills.
Key Responsibilities
Manage and oversee the school\’s credit control process, ensuring prompt collection of outstanding fees.
Liaise confidently and tactfully with parents regarding overdue accounts.
Maintain accurate debtor records and update payment schedules using Sage.
Raise sales invoices and credit notes.
Set up and manage direct debits and process Cardnet payments.
Support the Finance Manager with reconciliations and reporting.
Assist with general finance administration within a small, collaborative accounts team.
Resolve any existing or legacy debt issues. About You
Proven experience as a Credit Controller or similar finance role.
Proficiency with Sage accounting software.
Good working knowledge of finance procedures, including invoicing and payment reconciliation.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to handle sensitive conversations diplomatically.
Highly organised and detail-oriented with a proactive approach.
Team player with a positive, professional attitude.
Previous experience within an educational environment is desirable. Additional Information
Enhanced DBS check required before starting.
30 days\’ holiday entitlement.
Free on-street parking nearby.
Term-time only candidates will be considered, provided they can work part of the summer holidays when key invoicing takes place
Credit Controller employer: Starting Point Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Starting Point Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Credit Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector or finance world. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to credit control. We suggest role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Bring examples of how you've successfully managed credit control in the past. Real-life stories can make you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed, and we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Credit Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Credit Controller role. Highlight your experience with Sage and any relevant finance roles you've had. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Personal Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share why you're passionate about working in a school environment and how your communication skills can help build relationships with parents. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Organisational Skills: In your application, give examples of how you've managed financial records or collections in the past. We love seeing candidates who are detail-oriented and proactive, so don’t hold back on sharing your successes!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Starting Point Recruitment
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially around credit control processes and Sage software. Be ready to discuss how you've managed accounts receivable in the past and any specific challenges you've faced.
✨Empathy is Key
Since you'll be dealing with parents regarding overdue accounts, practice how to communicate sensitive information tactfully. Think of examples where you've handled difficult conversations with empathy and professionalism.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Prepare to talk about how you keep track of debtor records and manage payment schedules. Bring examples of how your organisational skills have helped streamline processes in previous roles.
✨Team Spirit Matters
This role is part of a small finance team, so highlight your teamwork experience. Share stories that demonstrate your collaborative approach and how you contribute positively to a team environment.