Finance Assistant apprentice

Duties & Responsibilities:
1. Support the effective operation of the finance function by accurately processing routine financial transactions and records, under supervision, contributing to the production of reliable financial information for the organisation
a)
Work as part of a team to process routine financial administration in line with established procedures, to support all departments of BCUSU and to develop an understanding of how the finance function supports organisational activities, services and decision-making
b)
Assist with handling, checking and preparing financial documentation such as invoices, receipts and remittances
Finance Assistant Apprentice Job Description & Personal Specification – February 2026 page 2
c)
Accurately process purchases, sales and remittances to suppliers and contractors and input financial data into finance systems, ensuring completeness and attention to detail
d)
Maintain orderly financial records and filing systems in accordance with data protection requirements and prepare statements and reports as required
e)
Responsible for credit control, ensuring all monies are received within payment terms and recorded accurately, referring non-payers to relevant department contacts and escalating to manager in line with procedure
f)
Reconcile orders with invoices, following up anomalies with internal budget holders and external contractors and suppliers, and contributing to the accuracy of financial information at month-end.
2. Use finance systems, controls and procedures correctly and securely, ensuring financial data is accurate, compliant and handled in line with organisational, legal and regulatory requirements
a)
Use finance and accounting software and spreadsheets to support routine accounting tasks and ensure they are being progressed within a timely manner and to meet month-end deadlines
b)
Follow internal financial procedures, controls and approval processes and support internal BCUSU staff to do the same
c)
Check own work and assist in identifying errors or inconsistencies in financial data, escalating issues in line with agreed procedures
d)
Review the use of financial information in day-to-day operations of the commercial outlets to ensure accuracy and its use to support decision-making
e)
Liaise with budget holders regarding queries or discrepancies relating to their budgets, providing spreadsheets or reports as required and developing an understanding of budget management within different parts of the organisation
f)
Provide analysis and evidence as requested by External Auditors during year end process, under supervision, and develop awareness of organisational governance, structures and regulatory requirements.
3. Develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours of a Finance Assistant through completion of the Level 2 apprenticeship, reflective learning, feedback, and active contribution as a collaborative member of the finance team
a)
Complete the Level 2 Finance Assistant apprenticeship, meeting all training, assessment and portfolio requirements and reflect on performance to identify learning and development needs
b)
Plan and review workload with the Finance Supervisor to meet agreed deadlines
c)
Work collaboratively with finance team colleagues to support timely and accurate processing of tasks and provide support to others

Training:
Accounts or Finance Assistant Level 2 Apprenticeship Standard

Training Outcome:
While a full-time position with the company after completing the apprenticeship isn’t guaranteed, you’ll gain a broad set of transferable skills and valuable experience within a supportive team environment This will place you in a strong position to pursue further career opportunities, either within the company or elsewhere in the industry

Employer Description:
Birmingham City Students’ Union (BCUSU) is your student-led union—here from day one to enrich every part of university experience. As an independent charity working alongside Birmingham City University (BCU), we exist to advocate for all students and enhance your academic, social, and personal journey. BCUSU is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Working Hours :
Total hours per week will be 35 including training at college. Agile Working Policy: Flexi-time allows employees to set their own start and finish times, with line manager approval, provided they work core hours 11am- 2pm and meet business needs.

Skills:
Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Problem solving skills,Administrative skills,Number skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative,Non judgemental,Patience