Finance & Payroll Officer Salary: circa £33,000 to £35,000 DOE plus study support and excellent benefits Location: Bolton We're currently recruiting a Finance & Payroll Officer to join a small, dynamic team in Bolton. In this role, you'll manage the payroll process, support monthly management accounts, financial reporting, and budget monitoring, while also acting as a key support to the Head of Finance & Payroll, gaining valuable exposure to senior financial management. Key Responsibilities: Assist in the preparation of monthly management accounts, including variance analysis and financial commentary. Support budget monitoring and forecasting, identifying key financial trends and potential risks. Manage the end-to-end payroll ensuring compliance with contractual terms, HMRC regulations and pension schemes. Respond to payroll queries from staff, ensuring prompt and professional resolutions. Assist in year-end financial processes, including the preparation of audit schedules and liaising with external auditors. Perform month-end reconciliation routines, including control accounts, payroll reconciliations, and balance sheet reconciliations. Prepare journal entries for accruals, prepayments, and necessary adjustments to maintain financial accuracy. Oversee the sales and purchase ledger processes, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments. Monitor aged debtors and creditors, ensuring prompt follow-up on outstanding balances. Skills and attributes required: Ideally AAT qualified or working towards AAT level 4 qualification Experience in producing and interpreting monthly management accounts, with strong analytical skills. Some prior payroll experience is preferable Experience working in the education sector or public sector finance would be highly desirable Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet strict deadlines. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise confidently with staff at all levels. Strong IT skills, including advanced proficiency in Excel. Please send a copy of your CV for consideration. ADZN1_UKTJ