Job Description:
Job Title: Finance Officer
Location: Southeast London
Reports To: Office/Housing Manager
Salary Range: £30,500- £35,000)
Job Purpose
Responsible for supporting the organisation’s financial planning, forecasting and performance reporting. The role ensures the effective processing of financial transactions, assists with budget monitoring, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and supports the delivery of high-quality financial services across the organisation.
The Finance Officer will work closely with budget holders to maintain strong financial controls and ensuring compliance with accounting standards, housing regulations, and internal financial procedures.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Administration
· Process and maintain accurate records of accounts payable and accounts receivable transactions.
· Prepare and process invoices, payment runs, direct debits, and bank transfers.
· Reconcile bank accounts, control accounts, and balance sheet accounts.
· Maintain financial records in accordance with organisational policies and accounting standards.
· Monitor cash flow and assist with treasury management activities.
· Leads the preparation and coordination of annual budgets, forecasts, and financial plans.
· Monitors financial performance against budget and forecasts.
· Produce regular financial reports and management information.
· Investigate and resolve variances and discrepancies.
· Prepare supporting schedules for month-end and year-end accounts.
Rent and Housing Income Accounting
· Monitor rental income and service charge accounts.
· Reconcile housing management and finance systems.
· Monitor key housing sector performance indicators.
· Support the management of rent arrears reporting and analysis.
· Assist with service charge calculations and reconciliations.
· Work closely with housing management team to ensure accurate income reporting.
· Assess the financial implications of rent changes, inflation, interest rates, and policy changes.
· Produce financial and operational performance information for the Executive Team and Board.
Compliance and Audit
· Ensure compliance with financial regulations, policies, and procedures.
· Assist with internal and external audit processes.
· Support the preparation of statutory accounts and regulatory returns.
· Maintain robust financial controls and identify areas for improvement.
· Purchase Ledger and Supplier Management
· Process supplier invoices, ensure prompt and accurate payments and resolve payment queries.
· Support contract and procurement financial administration.
· Payroll and Employee Expenses
· Support payroll administration processes.
· Maintain payroll and pension records where required.
· Ensure compliance with payroll and taxation requirements.
Financial Systems and Process Improvement
· Assist in maintaining finance systems and databases.
· Support system improvements and process enhancements.
· Contribute to the development and review of financial procedures.
· Promote efficient and effective financial practices throughout the organisation.
Development & Asset Management Support
· Support appraisal and financial evaluation of potential development or lease schemes.
· Analyse investment proposals, regeneration projects, and asset management programmes.
· Monitor capital expenditure against approved budgets.
· Assess financial viability of new developments, acquisitions, and funding opportunities.
Treasury & Cash Flow Analysis
· Support treasury reporting and covenant compliance monitoring.
· Analyse borrowing requirements and funding impacts on business plans.
· Contribute to lender and stakeholder reporting.
Financial Modelling & Scenario Analysis
· Develop and maintain financial models for strategic planning.
· Support the development of the Association’s 30-year business plan
· Produce monthly and quarterly forecasts, highlighting key risks.
· Undertake stress testing and scenario analysis.
· Support business cases and investment decisions.
Essential Qualifications
· A Degree in relevant subject/ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, or equivalent professional qualification.
· Commitment to continuing professional development.
Essential Experience
· Experience processing accounts payable and receivable transactions.
· Experience reconciling financial records and accounts.
· Experience using computerised accounting systems.
· Experience preparing financial reports and spreadsheets.
Essential Knowledge
· Understanding of accounting principles and financial controls.
· Knowledge of budget monitoring, cash flow forecasting and financial reporting.
· Ability to work with large datasets and financial systems.
· Good understanding and working knowledge of financial software systems.
Essential Skills
· Excellent numerical and analytical skills.
· High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
· Strong organisational and time management skills.
· Ability to prioritise workloads and meet deadlines.
· Effective communication, presentation and interpersonal skills.
· Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
· Commercial and strategic thinking
Desirable
· Experience working within a Housing Association, local authority, social housing, or not for profit sector.
· Knowledge of housing rents, service charges, and housing management systems.
· Understanding of social housing regulation and funding arrangement
Equal Opportunities Statement
Ash Shahada Housing Association is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and everyone is treated fairly and with respect. Applications are welcomed from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
Pay: £30,500.00-£35,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
