The Post
This role is within the Finance Operations team, which delivers all areas of financial processing in accordance with the University’s procedures, policies and regulations.
The postholder will work on both Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable, ensuring timely processing of income and expenditure and resolution of issues and queries.
Whilst the post holder will focus on specific operational processes, there should be a willingness to be flexible about the processes allocated to them as such needs arise. This will be under the direction of the Finance Operations Manager and ensure the efficient and effective financial processing of all incoming and outgoing cash transactions across the University.
Attention to detail and accuracy are paramount due to the regulatory requirements of the role. The right candidate will be able to work on their own initiative with minimum supervision, being able to organize and prioritise their own workload.
Description of Duties
Core Responsibilities – Accounts Receivable
1. Ensure the accuracy and integrity of the AR ledger by updating customer accounts, posting receipts, allocating payments correctly, and monitoring outstanding balances
2. Actively manage aged debt through structured and timely follow‑up using a variety of methods including email, phone contact, formal reminders, and escalation processes. Apply professional judgement to prioritise high‑risk or long‑outstanding accounts
3. Engage with students, commercial clients, sponsors, and internal stakeholders to resolve queries, disputes, and payment issues. Use a diplomatic and customer‑focused approach when negotiating payment plans or agreeing repayment arrangements
4. Investigate and resolve complex cases involving incorrect billing, missing documentation, misallocated payments, or service‑related queries
5. Ensure that all income—cash, card, direct debit, bank transfer, online payments, and student funding—is accurately recorded and reconciled. Work with colleagues across the Finance Operations team to ensure any discrepancies are promptly investigated
6. Support the administration of direct debit collections and payment plans
7. Process credit notes, account adjustments, and refunds in accordance with approval limits
8. Produce regular AR reports, aged debt analysis, and collection performance updates for the Finance Operations Manager
9. Ensure all AR activity complies with university regulations, data protection requirements, audit standards, and financial controls
Core Responsibilities – Accounts Payable
In addition to Accounts Receivable duties, the postholder will also support the Accounts Payable function to ensure accurate and timely processing of all University expenditure. This will include:
10. Process and pay supplier invoices promptly and accurately, ensuring compliance with university policies and procedures
11. Review and process staff expense claims in line with university policy
12. Administer payments related to studentships and other miscellaneous expenses
13. Administer the University’s purchase card programme, including reconciliation and monitoring of expenditure
14. Maintain accurate financial records and support internal and external audit processes
15. Respond to queries from suppliers, staff, and students in a professional and timely manner
16. Assist in month-end and year-end financial processes as required
17. Support continuous improvement initiatives in Accounts Payable processes
Essential Criteria
Qualifications & Experience:
18. AAT Level 3 qualified or equivalent qualification in accounting
19. Previous experience in an Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable or General Finance role desirable
Skills and Competencies:
20. Strong numerical accuracy and attention to detail
21. Excellent organisational and time-management skills
22. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
23. Good IT skills, including proficiency in MS Office and financial systems
24. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
25. High level of accuracy with attention to detail
Desirable Criteria
26. Knowledge of UK Higher Education sector
Additional Information
Full time
Open ended
The closing date for applications is midnight on Monday 06 April 2026
There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK.
This role is not eligible for sponsorship. Applicants require to have existing right to work in the UK.
The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role. We strongly encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including gender, identity, race, age, class, and ethnicity.
The University
The University of Stirling is committed to providing education with a purpose and carrying out research which has a positive impact on communities across the globe. Driven by our mission to be the difference, we are addressing real issues, providing solutions, and helping to shape society.
The University has more than 17,500 students globally and employs 1,500 staff, with more than 140 nationalities represented within our community. Our campus environment is ranked first in the UK and top 10 in the world, and our sports facilities rank first in the UK and second in the world (International Student Barometer 2024, wave two), reflecting our long-standing designation as Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence.
We were shortlisted for University of the Year 2024 at the Times Higher Education Awards and are proud holders of a Silver institutional award from the Athena Swan Charter, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality. We have an overall five-star rating in the QS Stars University Ratings and are ranked top 30 in the UK for postgraduate teaching and learning (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2024). In recognition of our excellence in business education, we are accredited by AACSB International.
Eighty-seven per cent of our research has an outstanding or very considerable impact on society, with more than 80% rated either world leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021), and we are ranked among the top 100 institutions in the world for our contribution to meeting 10 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. We have twice been recognised with a Queen's Anniversary Prize; for our Institute for Social Marketing and Health (2014) and our Institute of Aquaculture (2019).
Alongside partners, the University spearheads the £214 million Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal – which will deliver three major University-led projects: the National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub, Scotland’s International Environment Centre, and the Intergenerational Living Innovation Hub. We are also a central partner in the Forth Valley University College Health Partnership.
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