Finance Officer

Our client is a large and highly successful special school serving students aged 2-19, is looking to hire a Senior Finance Officer (Part Time), in Maidenhead, just outside of West London.

These students have complex needs and rely on specialized support to excel academically and reach their maximum potential. The school aims to be the leading center of excellence for students with special educational needs.

Job Scope
In this role, you'll collaborate closely with the Head of Finance and Finance Officers in overseeing the school's budget, funding, and procurement processes on behalf of the Headteacher and Governing Board (GB). Responsibilities include aiding the Head of Finance in financial management planning and execution, as well as handling day-to-day finance-related operations.

Responsibilities
• Assist the Head of Finance in implementing the Financial Strategy for the school.
• Execute delegated accounting tasks under the guidance of the Head of Finance.
• Conduct procurement tasks and feasibility studies as necessary.
• Serve as the school's credit controller.
• Address inquiries from budget holders.
• Aid the Head of Finance in maximizing income streams.
• Support Finance Officers with income and expenditure matters as needed.
• Assist the Head of Finance in preparing monthly management reports.
• Collaborate on annual statutory accounts required by the Local Authority, Charities Commission, and Governing Board.
• Support audits and inspections.
• Execute credit control activities and address cash flow issues.
• Participate in tendering processes as directed by the Head of Finance.
• Monitor budgets and assist budget holders.
• Coordinate with the HR team regarding staffing budgets and staff post numbers.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and the Finance Policy.
• Liaise with the local authority as required by the Head of Finance.
• Conduct financial analysis.
• Perform reconciliations.
• Maintain accurate financial records.
• Generate reports as requested by the Head of Finance.

Qualifications
• Part-qualified accountant or possess a recognized bookkeeping qualification.
• Demonstrated commitment to qualifying further and pursuing continuous professional development.
• Prior experience in accounting or bookkeeping within an organization, proficient in utilizing relevant software packages.
• Competent in credit control procedures and vendor interactions.
• Familiarity with procurement processes and purchasing.
• Proven track record of advising and supporting budget holders.
• Solid grasp of fundamental accounting principles.
• Exceptional communication abilities across all levels.
• Proficient in financial analysis with meticulous attention to detail.
• Highly skilled in administrative and organizational tasks, including proficiency in ICT, particularly Excel.
• Ability to establish productive relationships within the organization and external agencies.
• Capable of presenting financial information in an accessible manner to non-specialists.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently.
• Demonstrates reliability, honesty, and integrity.
• Suitability for working with children, and maintaining professional boundaries with children and colleagues alike.

Salary
£20,000 - 21,000 annual gross