Finance & Payroll Assistant

Finance & Payroll Assistant - Westminster Finance & Payroll Assistant Required - Full-Time Role Location: Central London Start Date: September 2026 Contract: Full-time, 5 days per week Duration: Permanent / Long-term Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience Finance & Payroll Assistant OpportunityTradewind Recruitment is working with a high-performing secondary school in Central London to recruit a highly organised and detail-focused candidate for a Finance & Payroll Assistant role. This is a key position supporting the Head of Finance in the smooth and accurate running of all financial operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for processing financial transactions, supporting payroll administration, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring compliance with school and statutory financial procedures. The role requires strong attention to detail, confidentiality, and the ability to manage multiple financial and administrative tasks within a busy school environment. You will play an important part in supporting financial operations across a busy secondary school setting in Central London. About the SchoolThis inclusive and well-respected secondary school is known for strong leadership, excellent organisation, and a commitment to efficient financial and operational systems. Located in Westminster, the school provides a structured and supportive environment where finance and administration teams play a vital role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. The successful candidate will join a professional and collaborative team focused on accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement. It is an excellent opportunity for a Finance & Payroll Assistant to develop their skills within an education setting. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial & Payroll Administration • Process purchase orders, invoices, receipts, and payments accurately • Prepare and verify BACS payment runs for authorisation • Reconcile credit card statements and supplier accounts • Support cash handling, banking, and petty cash processes • Assist with payroll processing and checking draft payroll reports • Support pension scheme submissions and year-end audit preparation • Assist with debt collection (e.g. dinner money) Systems & Records Management • Maintain financial records using Access databases • Manage document storage via DocuWare • Scan, index, and archive financial documentation • Produce financial reports and data extracts • Ensure secure handling of confidential financial information Administrative Support • Support Head of Finance and wider finance team • Respond to queries from staff, suppliers, and stakeholders • Assist with contracts, procurement, and finance correspondence • Support stock control and purchasing processes Compliance & School Support • Ensure compliance with financial regulations and procedures • Follow GDPR, safeguarding, and health & safety policies • Support audit preparation and internal controls • Undertake additional duties as required Candidate RequirementsEssential: • Experience in finance, payroll, or school administration • Strong numerical and organisational skills • High attention to detail and accuracy • Ability to handle confidential information • Experience with finance systems (Access, Excel, or similar) • Full-time availability Desirable: • Experience in a school or public sector finance setting • Knowledge of payroll or pension processes • Experience supporting audits or financial reporting Why Join Tradewind Recruitment? • Competitive daily or salary rates • Access to 2,500+ CPD courses via The National College • Dedicated education consultant support • Interview preparation and career guidance • Opportunities across London schools • Flexible payroll options EligibilityTo apply for this Finance & Payroll Assistant role, you must: • Have relevant finance or payroll experience • Be able to work full-time • Provide full employment history • Supply two professional references • Meet safeguarding and compliance requirements Apply NowIf you are an experienced Finance & Payroll Assistant looking for a new opportunity in Central London, this is an excellent chance to join a well-structured school environment where accuracy and finance processes are highly valued. Submit your CV today or contact Tradewind Recruitment for more information. Early applications are strongly encouraged as the school is looking to appoint the right candidate ahead of September.