Finance & Administrative Assistant

Finance & Administrative Assistant Location

• Laser House Contract Type
• Permanent Working Pattern
• Full Time Pay Scale - £27,500 Exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (RoA)
• No Barring Checks
• Adult & Child Line Manager
• Executive Head of Finance and COO. Role Purpose To provide efficient and accurate finance and procurement support across the business, focusing on credit control for Navigators and legacy learning centre debt, purchase order and invoice processing, procurement administration, and learning centre support. The role will manage procurement activities including order placement, supplier communication, and maintenance of vendor documentation, while ensuring financial records are accurate and processes are followed. As part of a busy and supportive finance team, the postholder will contribute to wider finance activities, helping to maintain effective operations and support business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Credit Control Manage credit control activities for Navigators and legacy learning centre debt. Monitor outstanding accounts and proactively chase overdue payments. Maintain accurate debtor records and account reconciliations. Escalate unresolved debt issues where appropriate and support debt recovery processes. Build positive relationships with customers to encourage timely payment.

Purchase Order & Procurement Administration Process purchase orders accurately and in line with company procedures. Manage procurement activities, including order placement and tracking. Liaise with suppliers regarding orders, deliveries, queries, and discrepancies. Maintain accurate supplier and vendor records and documentation.

Support the development and implementation of procurement processes and controls. Invoice Processing Process supplier invoices accurately and within agreed timescales. Match invoices to purchase orders and investigate any discrepancies. Ensure financial records are maintained and updated correctly. Support timely payment of suppliers in accordance with company processes.

Learning Centre Support Provide administrative and financial support relating to learning centre activities. Respond to queries from colleagues, customers, and stakeholders in a professional and timely manner. Assist with reporting and record maintenance as required. Finance Administration Maintain accurate financial data and documentation.

Support month-end and other finance processes as required. Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and financial controls. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the finance function. Teamwork & Continuous Improvement Work collaboratively with colleagues across the finance team and wider business.

Provide flexible support across finance and administration functions as required. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and service delivery. Demonstrate a positive, resilient, and customer-focused approach at all times. Skills and Abilities Finance, Credit Control & Procurement Experience in credit control, invoice processing, purchase order administration, and procurement activities, with the ability to maintain accurate financial and supplier records, resolve discrepancies, and operate in accordance with financial controls, procedures, and compliance requirements Communication & Customer Service Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to provide excellent customer service, build positive stakeholder relationships, and handle enquiries professionally and effectively.

Organisation & Attention to Detail Excellent organisational skills with a methodical and accurate approach, and the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively under pressure. Teamwork & Personal Effectiveness Strong team player with a flexible, resilient, and proactive approach, committed to continuous improvement and delivering a high-quality service.

IT & Systems Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, with the ability to effectively utilise finance, procurement, and business systems to maintain accurate records and support efficient operations. Experience and qualifications Essential Proven experience in credit control and debt recovery. Experience processing purchase orders and supplier invoices.

Experience of procurement administration, including supplier liaison and order management. Strong attention to detail and accuracy. Excellent organisational and time management skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. Strong communication and customer service skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office and finance systems.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Resilient, proactive, and adaptable approach to work. Desirable Relevant qualification in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. Experience maintaining vendor documentation and supplier records. Experience supporting process improvements within a finance or procurement function.

Knowledge of purchase order and invoice approval processes. Experience working within a busy finance team environment. Understanding of financial controls and compliance requirements. Commitment to continuous professional development. Behaviours and Attitudes Empathy & Respect Demonstrates compassion, understanding, and respect towards colleagues, customers, and community members, particularly during periods of change.

Promotes an inclusive, welcoming environment where people feel valued, listened to, and supported. Integrity & Honesty Acts with professionalism, openness, and honesty, taking accountability for decisions and actions. Upholds organisational policies, standards, and confidentiality, building confidence through ethical conduct.

Resilience & Commitment Remains positive, adaptable, and solution-focused when facing challenges or changing priorities. Demonstrates commitment to delivering high-quality services and supporting the successful operation of the centre. Trust & Authenticity Builds strong relationships through reliability, consistency, and genuine engagement with others.

Leads by example, creating a culture of openness, collaboration, and mutual trust. Declarations We aim to create and maintain a safe environment and community where all young people and adults feel safe, secure and valued. We work hard to create strong relationships and show a commitment to safeguarding all young people.

Our work is classified as Regulated Activity as defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (SVGA). This role will include regular contact with Children 121 or group setting. This includes those that could be classified as vulnerable and both an understanding of and experience in adhering to UK safeguarding legislation is required.

Further information relating to our Safeguarding, Child Protection, Ex-offender or Safer Recruitment policies are available upon request. All applications are assessed on an individual basis in relation to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. This post will require the successful candidate to complete our Disclosure Barring Service, Vulnerable Child and Adult register checks as well as reference checks.

We may also carry out additional online searches such as social media as part of the selection process.