Finance Officer

Temporary Finance Support Officer – Year End and Purchase Ledger Cover

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• Location: South West London, (5 days per week on-site)
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• Job Type: Temporary
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• Hours: 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (term time); 9:30am to 4:30pm, Monday to Friday (school holidays)
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• Assignment Duration: Monday 17th August to Tuesday 29th September 2026
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My client is seeking a Temporary Finance Support Officer to assist our Finance team for a six-week period. This role is crucial for maintaining the continuity of the school’s day-to-day finance operations while supporting the completion of time-sensitive year-end work. The successful candidate will cover for the Purchase Ledger Officer for approximately three weeks and assist with year-end preparation activities.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

Purchase Ledger Duties:

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• Manage the purchase ledger, ensuring prompt processing of invoices and accurate payments.
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• Conduct fortnightly BACS runs, ensuring all invoices are authorised and coded correctly.
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• Set up and maintain supplier accounts and relationships.
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• Handle direct debit schedules and ensure timely postings of all related invoices and payments.
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• Reconcile the Expenses Bank account daily.
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• Monitor the finance inbox and respond to queries promptly and professionally.
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• Assist with record keeping for capital projects and budget monitoring.
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• Provide support to budget holders and process staff expense claims and credit card reconciliations.
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Year-End Preparation:

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• Support audit processes by preparing key schedules and providing necessary documentation.
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• Ensure finance records and supporting documentation are complete and organised for year-end review.
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• Maintain clear records of work completed and highlight any matters requiring further action.
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Required Skills & Qualifications

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• Part-qualified or working towards a professional qualification (ACCA, CIMA, ACA, or equivalent).
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• Significant experience in bookkeeping or an Accounts payable role.
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• Strong knowledge of accounting standards, software, and VAT.
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• Excellent book-keeping skills, attention to detail, and numerical accuracy.
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• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and good overall computer literacy.
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• Excellent time management, organisational, and communication skills.
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• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and maintain confidentiality.
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Desirable Qualifications

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• Degree in Accounting or related field.
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• Experience working within a school environment or with online approval systems/tools.
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• Understanding of safeguarding principles.
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Please note that as part of our safeguarding policy, applicants will be required to undertake screening relevant to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.