Job Description: Interim Finance AssistantLocation: Manchester (Hybrid Working Model)
Rate: Up to £200 per day
Contract Type: Interim / Temporary Assignment
Sector: Public Sector – Transport
OverviewA large public sector transport organisation in Manchester is seeking an experienced Interim Finance Assistant to support its busy finance function during a period of increased operational activity. This role will work across financial processing, reconciliations, procurement support, and financial control, ensuring the organisation meets its regulatory and audit requirements.
Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Processing & Reporting
1. Support efficient accounts payable and receivable processes, ensuring accurate and timely processing of transactions.
2. Prepare and post banking journals, ensuringpleteness and accuracy.
3. Assist with the preparation of balance sheet reconciliations, identifying and investigating variances.
4. Contribute to the delivery of timely monthly, quarterly, and year‑end financial information.
Procurement &missioning Support
5. Support procurement andmissioning activity, ensuringpliance with public sector financial regulations.
6. Assist with contract and purchase order administration.
7. Ensure documentation meets standards for audit, transparency, and value for money.
Financial Controls &ernance
8. Help maintain strong financial controls, policies, and processes.
9. Support audit requirements by preparing evidence and responding to queries.
10. Monitor adherence to financial regulations and internal procedures.
Stakeholder Support
11. Manage shared finance email inboxes, ensuring prompt and accurate responses.
12. Build positive working relationships across the organisation, providing clear and accessible financial guidance to stakeholders.
13. Work collaboratively with colleagues in finance, procurement,missioning, and operational teams.
Skills, Experience & QualificationsEssential
14. Experience in a finance assistant, finance officer, or similar transactional finance role.
15. Strong understanding of financial transaction processing within aplex, high‑volume environment.
16. Excellent analytical skills and confidence using spreadsheets (Excel), finance systems, and data tools.
17. Strong organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
18. Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment.
19. Ability to interpret financial policies andmunicate clearly with non‑finance colleagues.
Desirable
20. Background in the public sector or transport/logistics environment.
21. Working towards a CCAB accountancy qualification (or equivalent).
22. Experience supporting procurement ormissioning processes.