Trainee Finance Administrative Assistant

Please note that interviews are expected to take place on Monday 9th October 2023



The University

At Durham University, we are proud of our people, because they are at the heart of our globally outstanding institution, which is a key part of our local community. We inspire our people to do extraordinary things and we invite you to join our fantastic team.

Across the University, we have a huge variety of roles and responsibilities, which together make us one large and successful community. Whether you are at the very start, middle or end of your career, there is a role for you. We believe everyone has their own unique skills to offer.

At the University we promote and actively champion equality, diversity and inclusion. It is crucial that everyone can be themselves and can flourish in an environment where everyone respects each other and is treated fairly. We want our people and wider community to feel happy, secure and proud to be a part of Durham. We are looking for the same values in you.

We welcome and encourage applications from members of groups who are under-represented in our work force including people with disabilities, women and black, Asian and minority ethnic communities. For more information on our EDI strategy and values, click here



The Role and Department

Our Finance Service:

• Supports the University in delivering its strategic objectives
• Works in partnership with Academic Departments, Colleges and other Professional Services to deliver and monitor the annual financial plan
• Provides regular and timely reporting of the University’s financial position and performance
• Ensures that the University’s Financial Regulations are fit for purpose and that the organisation adheres to them
• Safeguards and optimises assets and controls liabilities
• Processes financial transactions in a timely, accurately and professional manner

Role Purpose:

• To gain knowledge, understanding and experience across the three financial teams; Financial Planning and Reporting – production of forecasts,
• Financial Accounting and capital management
• Financial Processing – processing of financial transactions, Accounts Payable, AR and cash Management
• Systems and Projects – month end processing and control, maintenance of financial systems.

To fulfil the terms and conditions of the apprenticeship, the post-holder will be required to complete training on a weekly basis towards the Apprentice Framework in AAT at level 2 or 3 or 4.

This is a Finance developmental role.  The successful candidate will, in addition to having an interest in the financial operations of the University, have the ability and potential to develop and understand basic principle and processes within Finance. The post-holder will undertake a two year development programme, leading to a formal qualification and gain experience of a fully functional finance service.

The qualification will form part of a developmental plan, created in conjunction with the successful candidate, taking into account their individual needs.

The post holder will work within the Finance Team.

Qualifications :

What you need to demonstrate when you apply

To be considered for this role, here are the skills/experience we’re looking for:

1. Good spoken and written communication skills.

2. Basic digital skills including the ability to use the internet and email.

3. Five GCSE’s at least Grade C or level four (or equivalent) including English Language and Mathematics

4. Experience of working in a team.

5. Experience of managing time to meet deadlines.

6. Ability to follow instructions, spoken or written, accurately.

7. Have excellent attendance & time keeping.

8. Microsoft Office: word, excel, outlook

9. Demonstrate attention to detail.

10. Have the willingness to undertake an AAT qualification (or equivalent)

11. Be able to balance working and completing assigned college work.



How to Apply

We prefer to receive applications online. When you apply you need to submit a CV and a statement that tells us your experience and gives examples of how you meet the criteria above and/or submit the application form and include the information within the form.

We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process, via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates.



Who to contact for more information

If you would like to have a chat or ask any questions about the role or if you are struggling to complete the application process, Carol Bainbridge would be happy to speak to you. c.m.bainbridge@durham.ac.uk



Typical Role Requirements

Here are the kind of activities that you’ll be asked to undertake and ways in which you’ll be expected to operate.

Service Delivery

· Provide an excellent service to our students, your colleagues and anyone else you come across as part of your role by carrying out your tasks using the relevant procedures (which we will provide training for).

· Be aware of any hazards and risks and report any incidents.

· Log and record routine information and data for use by others.

· Pass on information for use by others.

· Use standard office-based devices and applications such as Word and Excel to deliver services.

Teamwork

· Help and cooperate with the rest of your team.

· Help your colleagues when required with other key activities undertaken within your service.

· Learn new skills and practices from more experienced colleagues.

· Bring any problems to the attention of more senior colleagues.

Communication/Personal

· Show a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and the University’s values.

· Respond to routine requests for information.

· Use digital devices and apps (such as email) to communicate with students, your colleagues and anyone else you come across as part of your role.

· Any other reasonable duties.

Please note that in submitting your application Durham University will be processing your data. We would ask you to consider the relevant University Privacy Statement Privacy Notices - Durham University which provides information on the collation, storing and use of data.

This post is a full time, fixed term for a 2 year period.

When appointing to this role the University must ensure that it meets any applicable immigration requirements, including salary thresholds which are applicable to some visas.