Accounts Assistant

Career Opportunity: Finance Assistant within SAgE Faculty at Newcastle University

Newcastle University presents a compelling opportunity for an individual seeking to advance their career in finance within a dynamic and supportive academic environment. This full-time, fixed-term role, covering maternity leave for approximately 14 months, offers a chance to contribute significantly to the SAgE Faculty's finance team.

Why Consider This Role?

This position is more than just a job; it's a platform for professional development. As a Finance Assistant, you'll be instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of management accounting services, working collaboratively with School-based Finance Business Partners and colleagues. This role offers:

• Career Progression: With a starting salary in the range of £27,319 - £28,031, there's a clear path for progression to £29,588, demonstrating a commitment to rewarding performance and loyalty.
• Supportive Environment: The SAgE Faculty Finance team is described as supportive and collaborative, providing an ideal setting for learning and growth, especially for those new to certain financial responsibilities.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Newcastle University is committed to employee well-being, offering a generous holiday package (with the option to purchase more), excellent pension schemes, and various health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Valuable Experience: You'll gain hands-on experience with key financial processes including journals, adjustments, invoicing, financial reporting, and the maintenance of financial systems like SAP. Exposure to planning, project finance, and statutory data returns will broaden your skillset.
• University of Sanctuary Status: Newcastle University's commitment to inclusivity and its status as a University of Sanctuary highlight a progressive and welcoming organisational culture, making it an attractive place to work for a diverse range of individuals.
• Commitment to Equality: The university's numerous awards and accreditations (Athena Swan, Race Equality Charter, Disability Confident employer) underscore a dedication to fostering an equitable and supportive workplace for all employees.

Key Responsibilities and What You'll Do:

Your day-to-day activities will be central to the faculty's financial operations. You will:

• Support the delivery of essential management accounting tasks, including the processing of journals, adjustments, and invoicing, as well as generating financial reports.
• Maintain and update critical financial systems, such as SAP, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of master data.
• Contribute to financial planning, project finance activities, and the preparation of statutory data returns.

What We're Looking For in Candidates:

This role is best suited for individuals who are:

• Detail-Oriented and Accurate: A keen eye for detail is paramount given the nature of financial data handling and reporting.
• Numerically Proficient: Strong numeracy skills are essential for interpreting and explaining financial information effectively.
• IT Savvy: Confidence in using financial systems and data manipulation in spreadsheets and databases is required. Experience with SAP is desirable.
• Organised and Proactive: The ability to manage deadlines, prioritise tasks, and work efficiently is crucial.
• Team Players: A collaborative spirit and a willingness to contribute to team goals are highly valued.
• Strong Communicators: Excellent oral and written communication skills are needed to convey financial information clearly and concisely.
• Committed to Quality: A dedication to delivering a high-quality service, both internally and externally.

Educational and Experience Considerations:

• A minimum of 5 GCSEs (grades A to C, including Maths and English) or equivalent by experience is required.
• A-Level standard education or an AAT qualification (or equivalent) is desirable.
• Previous experience in a finance environment, particularly with financial systems and master data/transaction input, is highly advantageous.

Career Path Guidance:

For individuals looking to build a career in finance, this role offers a solid foundation. The exposure to various accounting functions within a large, reputable institution like Newcastle University provides invaluable practical experience. Developing proficiency in financial systems and reporting tools will equip you for future roles within finance departments in higher education or other sectors. If you're considering a path towards professional accounting qualifications (such as AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or CIPFA), this role can provide the essential practical experience needed to complement your studies.

Application Process:

To apply, candidates are requested to submit their CV along with a concise supporting cover letter, clearly outlining how their skills and experience align with the requirements of the role. Interviews are scheduled for Monday, 9th February 2026.

This is an excellent chance to contribute to a leading university while developing your financial expertise in a rewarding and supportive setting.