Finance Officer (Maternity Cover – 12 to 14 Months) Location: London SE4 Salary: £37,509 – £38,637 per annum Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week, 52 weeks per year Start Date: 5 January 2025 (earlier start possible) Contract: Fixed-Term (Maternity Cover: 12–14 months) A Multi-Academy Trust in London SE4 is seeking an experienced Finance Officer to join its central finance team on a maternity cover contract. This is a key role within a school environment, supporting both central and local finance operations, including accounts payable, payroll, budget monitoring, and financial reporting. This role offers the opportunity to work across a variety of school and MAT finance activities, supporting staff, suppliers, parents, and budget holders to ensure smooth financial processes. Key Responsibilities * Process financial transactions, journals, and reconciliations in the finance system. * Raise purchase orders and process invoices in line with Trust financial procedures. * Manage cash, banking, receipts, and BACS payments. * Support weekly payment runs and monitor purchase order commitments. * Administer school trip finances and income collection via ParentMail/BACS. * Lead on credit control, debtor recovery, and chasing outstanding payments. * Maintain lettings/hire records, raise invoices, and follow up on overdue payments. * Provide advice and updates to budget holders on their budgets and commitments. * Investigate and resolve supplier and staff account queries. * Assist with payroll, pensions, and staff expenses administration. * Support month-end and year-end financial processes, including accruals and prepayments. * Prepare reconciliations for bank and control accounts. * Maintain accurate, confidential records and assist with audits. * Support school events, emergency procedures, and finance training as required. Person Specification Qualifications & Experience * AAT Level 2/3 or equivalent (desirable). * Minimum 5 GCSEs including English and Maths. * Experience in finance administration, accounts payable, or school finance. * Proficient in Excel and Microsoft Office; familiar with finance systems. * Understanding of financial processes in a school or educational environment. Skills & Attributes * Excellent numeracy, accuracy, and attention to detail. * Strong organisational and prioritisation skills. * Effective communication skills with staff, parents, and suppliers. * Ability to analyse, interpret, and present financial data. * Professional, reliable, and able to handle confidential information. * Flexible, proactive, and solution-focused. * Commitment to safeguarding and professional development. Safeguarding & DBS This role is based in a school and involves working with sensitive information. An Enhanced DBS check is required, and safeguarding responsibilities must be adhered to at all times. Why Join Us? * Join a professional and supportive central finance team. * Work on a varied and interesting range of finance tasks across school and MAT operations. * Competitive salary with opportunities for skill development