Finance Officer

Finance Officer , Permanent, full-time, office-based
£30,000–£35,000 per annum, depending on experience
Immediate start available

About Alpha Schools

Founded in 2003, Alpha Schools has grown to become one of the largest operators of independent schools in the UK. We encourage intellectual curiosity and productive learning habits in our students and staff. Our central finance team supports schools and business entities across the Group.

About the role

You will help our central finance team keep accurate records, support supplier payments and provide a reliable service to our schools. Working with colleagues across the Group, you will review financial information, resolve queries and help ensure our processes run smoothly.

This is a practical finance role with a focus on purchase ledger and payment controls. It suits someone who enjoys working with figures, takes care over the detail and is comfortable asking questions when something needs checking.

Key responsibilities

• Support purchase ledger activity and supplier payments, maintaining accurate and up-to-date financial records in Xero.
• Review supplier invoices, payment requests and payment runs for accuracy, appropriate coding, VAT treatment, supporting documentation and authorisation.
• Investigate discrepancies and resolve queries with schools, suppliers and finance colleagues, referring more complex matters for guidance.
• Check relevant financial records and reconciliations to support payment decisions and routine finance reporting.
• Follow Group financial controls, keep clear records and help document and improve day-to-day processes.
• Build positive working relationships with schools and central colleagues, responding to finance enquiries professionally and promptly.
• Support relevant month-end work and other finance administration appropriate to the role.
• Assist with supplier contracts and purchasing when needed, including utilities, quotation comparisons and renewals, with guidance from senior colleagues.

Person specification

We welcome applicants with relevant finance experience from any sector. Experience in a school is helpful but is not required. A practical accounting background matters more than a particular qualification.

Essential

• Practical experience in a finance or accounts role and confidence using Xero. Hands-on Xero experience is essential.
• A working understanding of purchase ledger, accounting records, nominal coding, VAT and financial controls, with the judgement to seek advice when needed.
• Strong numeracy and attention to detail, with the ability to spot discrepancies and follow queries through.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work and meet deadlines.
• Clear written communication, a good telephone manner and a professional approach and presentation when working with colleagues and suppliers.
• Confidence using Microsoft Excel and maintaining accurate records.
• Integrity, discretion and a willingness to learn, contribute to the team and improve ways of working.

Desirable

• Experience supporting purchasing, supplier contracts or negotiations, including energy, waste collection or other services.
• Experience in an education or multi-site organisation.
• A relevant accounting qualification, or study towards one, such as AAT.
• Contract and procurement work is a secondary part of the role. Senior colleagues will provide guidance; previous negotiation experience is not essential.

Why Join Us?

Professional Growth: We value your development and offer opportunities for continuous learning.

Collaborative Environment: Join a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance.

Competitive Compensation: We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, reflecting your skills and experience.

Innovation and impact: Join a forward-thinking organisation where your ideas and contributions truly matter.

Alpha Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants will undergo appropriate child-protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS check (covered by the candidate). This role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: £30,000.00-£35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Application question(s):

• Do you have experience with purchase ledger, supplier invoices, VAT and financial reconciliations?

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person