Senior Finance Officer – Secondary Academy in Bristol (ASAPStart)

A well-established secondary academy in Bristol is seeking a precise, analytical Senior Finance Officer to oversee daily financial ledgers, purchasing, and payroll reconciliations for an immediate (ASAP) start. Job Overview The Finance Officer is responsible for managing daily accounting transactions, maintaining financial records, and assisting the School Business Manager with monthly budget reconciliations and year-end audits. Working alongside academic department heads and administrative leads, you will manage purchase ordering, invoice approvals, BACs payment processing, trip income collection, and bank reconciliations. This is a full-time, ongoing or permanent role. Key Responsibilities Manage sales and purchase ledgers, invoice matching, and BACs payment cycles on school accounting software (Access/PSF/FMS) Perform monthly bank reconciliations, credit card audits, and petty cash management Monitor departmental spending, alerting Heads of Department to budget variances and issuing monthly reports Process online student income (ParentPay/Arbor) for trips, catering, and music tuition Assist with month-end financial reporting, VAT returns, and statutory audit preparation Reconcile monthly payroll reports and staff pension contributions (TPS/LGPS) The School & What’s on Offer Immediate Start: Full-time, long-term or permanent contract starting ASAP Role Type: Full-time hours (52-week or Term-Time plus key finance weeks) Facilities: Professional administrative suite with automated financial processing software Location: Prime Bristol location with excellent transport links and on-site parking Candidate Requirements AAT qualification (Level 3 or 4) or equivalent professional finance/accounting experience Demonstrated experience working within school finance, academy finance, or public sector accounting Proficiency in school finance platforms (Access Education, SIMS FMS, PSF, or Bromcom) and Microsoft Excel High numerical accuracy, organizational efficiency, and attention to detail An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply) How to Apply Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this Finance Officer position in Bristol for an immediate start.