JOB TITLE: Finance Assistant

LOCATION: Diocesan Office, St. Nicholas Church, Boley Hill, Rochester

GRADE: Grade 4

REPORTING TO: Finance Director

PURPOSE OF JOB

The Finance Assistant is responsible for helping the Financial Controller with the administration of the Diocesan accounting functions, including the day to day running of the accounts department and the maintenance of accurate books and records. The Finance Assistant will help to ensure that the accounting transactions for all of the funds of the Diocese are kept accurately and up to date.

Work with other members of the Finance department and members of the Diocesan Management Team to supply data and analysis for the purpose of improving financial management. Working with the Financial Administrative Assistant, the Finance Assistant will also be responsible for aspects of the banking arrangements and general ledger processing.

PRINICIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

1. Provide cover for all aspects of the Financial Administrative Assistant’s responsibilities including invoice processing, bank reconciliation, receipts and payment processing.

2. Assist with control of all accounting and accounts record systems. Assist with the implementation of any new accounting systems if the Diocese decides to acquire one.

3. Implement and maintain a system for collecting Diocesan Board of Finance fees, including chasing non-payment.

4. Prepare weekly journals for Surveyors Order System, processing new orders and amendments and undertake monthly reconciliation to the accounting system to aid budgetary reporting and control.

5. Prepare monthly payroll journals and recharges; produce of payment instructions to Inland Revenue and reconciliation of all payments.

6. Assist the Management Accountant in producing the Monthly Management Accounts including; preparation of monthly journals, production of budget

holders' reports, analysis of accounts as required, reconciliation and control of fund accounts and preparation of monthly reports required by Diocesan Secretary and other members of the senior management team.

7. Prepare the VAT return for review by the Financial Controller.

8. Verification of Annual Finance returns from parishes against their Annual Report of Accounts.

9. Prepare and process year end reconciliations, year-end clear down journals and recharges.

10. Assist with the preparation of the annual Financial Statements, and external audit liaison planning and administration.

11. Develop good working relationships with other members of the finance team and work closely with internal customers such as budget holders, the Archdeacons and the senior management team.

12. Any other ad-hoc projects and duties as required.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Ideally two years’ experience in a similar role Experience of computerised accounting systems, preferably NAV/MS

Dynamic 2013, including report writing Proficient Microsoft Office user, in particular a strong aptitude in Excel A meticulous and methodical approach, with experience of

developing and improving working practices in line with organisational needs

Proven experience in delivery of accurate, high quality work and reports to deadlines and to required standards

Good standard of written and verbal English with the ability to build relationships and communicate effectively at all levels both within and outside of the organisation

Developing knowledge and understanding of Charities Act issues as they affect Parish Church Councils

Experience of working within the charity or church sector would be useful

Experience of working as part of a small team

COMPETENCIES

Achievement Drive – A desire to meet or exceed standards, welcoming feedback, and continually seeking to improve. It includes staying focused on goals over an extended period of time.

Relationships – The ability to understand the perspectives, feelings and concerns of others and initiate, build and maintain relationships in a mutually beneficial way. Recognise one’s own feelings and those of others and manage emotions effectively.

Persuasiveness – The ability to convince others of a view, conclusion, position etc. Communicating in an impactful way, tailored to one’s audience.

Problem Solving – The ability to investigate and breakdown a problem or situation into its component parts, identifying implications and the key underlying issues and establish possible solutions.

Independence – A demonstrated belief in one’s capability to select an appropriate approach to a situation. It includes confidence in one’s judgement or opinion and showing resilience in adversity. Know when to seek the support and advice of others.

Adaptability – The ability to adapt one’s behavioural style or method of approach where necessary to achieve a goal. Responds to change with a positive attitude and demonstrates a willingness to learn new ways to accomplish objectives.

Teamworking – The willingness and ability to work co-operatively and collaboratively with others toward a shared goal, contributing actively to the team. Builds positive relationships and a sense of pride within the team.