Finance Assistant

Job Introduction

Finance Assistant (Payroll & Accounts)

Reports to: Payroll Manager / Finance Manager

 At Operam Education Group, a Best Companies top 100 employer, we are going through exciting growth. We’re established as one of the premier educational recruiters across England and have 9 brands under the group umbrella so far. Our central finance team, based in Barnsley, manage group wide accounts and payroll activity. 

If you are an experienced Finance Assistant, or a Graduate looking for a career finance (and have a relevant degree / qualifications) we would love to hear from you.

You’ll join a supportive, collaborative team who will invest in your training and development. We will discuss what this could look like for you during the interview process.

Job Purpose

To provide support to the accounts and payroll department by handling the day-to-day transactional finance duties, with a focus on the preparation of payroll data and account postings. This role ensures the accurate and timely processing of financial transactions, supporting the operation of payrolls and accounts payable/receivable.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Support

• Assist with the preparation and processing of weekly payroll, ensuring accuracy of data (e.g., hours worked, overtime, deductions, amendments).
• Maintain and update records on the payroll system.
• Liaise with line managers to obtain and verify payroll information.
• Help reconcile payroll reports and resolve discrepancies.
• Assist with day-to-day payroll queries.
• Support year-end payroll processes including P60s and P11Ds.

Accounts Support

• Post purchase and sales invoices.
• Post and reconcile banks daily.
• Set up new suppliers and maintain supplier records.
• Assist in preparation of payment runs.
• Reconcile supplier statements and handle supplier queries promptly.
• Monitor and maintain the accounts payable inbox.
• Assist in the preparation of weekly and monthly reporting.
• Assist the credit controller in chasing debt.

Finance Support

• Help with month-end and year-end closing activities.
• Support internal and external audits with relevant documentation.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records.

Key Skills & Attributes

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Good understanding of basic accounting and payroll principles.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal).
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and accounting software (e.g., Sage, Xero).
• Discreet and trustworthy with sensitive financial information.

Qualifications & Experience

• AAT Level 2 or 3 (or working towards).
• Experience in a similar finance assistant or transactional finance role.
• Experience with payroll processes (preferred but not essential).
• Familiarity with financial systems and payroll software.

Benefits for our employees

• Employee Assistant Programme, 247 wellbeing support
• Eye care scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Life Assurance Scheme
• 25 days holidays + bank holidays 
• Extra day off on your birthday
• Pledge / paid volunteer days
• Training and development opportunities via our Career pathway

⭐ Check out our Careers site for more information CLICK HERE⭐

 We look forward to receiving your application.

As a proud member of Inclusive Employers, we are committed to creating a diverse, welcoming, and equitable workplace. We believe in providing a fair and transparent recruitment process, where every candidate is assessed solely on their skills, experience, and potential.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process or at any stage of the interview, please let us know. We are committed to making the necessary accommodations to support you fully.

Please note that all successful candidates will be required to provide proof of their right to work in the UK before commencing employment.