Administrative Assistant

Administrative Assistant

Full-Time 24000 - 28000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The Big Issue

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Provide essential financial admin support and manage loan portfolios.
  • Company: Join Big Issue Group, dedicated to tackling poverty through social business solutions.
  • Benefits: Inclusive workplace, opportunities for growth, and a chance to make a real difference.
  • Other info: Diverse and welcoming environment, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.
  • Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team that empowers communities and promotes social finance.
  • Qualifications: Background in finance or relevant degree; Excel skills are a must!

The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.

Big Issue Group works towards one mission: to dismantle poverty through social business solutions. We are offering an exciting opportunity to join the Big Issue Invest team. We encourage and welcome applicants from all members of the community and particularly applications from those who are underrepresented in our sector - women in finance, people with disabilities, Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA, and from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds.

The Administration Assistant will provide key financial administration support to the wider Big Issue Invest Team. Working closely with the Accounts Manager, you'll manage both loan and fund portfolios, ensuring accurate record‑keeping and timely updates, assist with onboarding new clients and investments, including collecting and verifying KYC (Know Your Customer) documentation and supporting due diligence processes.

Responsibilities:

  • Maintain and update portfolio management systems.
  • Prepare routine correspondence and respond to client queries.
  • Support the monitoring of existing investments, tracking key milestones, repayments, covenants, and impact metrics.
  • Assist the Investment Manager and Accounts Manager with risk assessments and performance assessments where required.

Qualifications:

  • A background in a financial environment and/or a relevant degree or financial qualification.
  • Strong understanding and history of confidentiality in a financial context.
  • A keen "numbers person" who is used to working in depth with Excel.
  • Interested candidates wishing to move into a social finance career may also be considered.

Big Issue Invest is part of the Big Issue Group which brings together media, investment and service initiatives under the one aim of creating solutions through enterprise, to unlock social and economic opportunity for the 14.5m people in the UK living in relative poverty to earn, learn and thrive.

Administrative Assistant employer: The Big Issue

Big Issue Group is an exceptional employer dedicated to dismantling poverty through innovative social business solutions. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, we foster a supportive work culture that values every voice and offers ample opportunities for professional growth within the social finance sector. Joining our team means being part of a mission-driven organisation where your contributions directly impact the lives of those in need, all while working in a collaborative environment that champions personal and career development.

The Big Issue

Contact Details:

The Big Issue Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Administrative Assistant

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 The Big Issue. 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 Administrative Assistant

Financial Administration
Record-Keeping
KYC Documentation
Due Diligence Processes
Portfolio Management
Excel Proficiency
Client Communication

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 The Big Issue.

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 The Big Issue'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 The Big Issue

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 The Big Issue.

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 The Big Issue 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 The Big Issue 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.