Finance Officer (COS Available) At University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW)

Location: United Kingdom
Salary: £24,625 to £25,674 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Fixed-term, 6 months
Working Pattern: Full-time
Certificate of Sponsorship: Available
Closing Date: 28 May 2025

Introduction

Are you an aspiring finance professional looking for a rewarding role within the NHS? University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW) is offering an exciting opportunity for a Finance Officer to join their team. This position provides a unique chance to work in a high-performing NHS Trust, ensuring the smooth running of essential financial functions while contributing to the healthcare sector. The role involves core duties within both Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable functions, allowing for diverse experience in the finance domain.

This fixed-term position is based at UHBW Trust Headquarters in Bristol, with flexibility for remote working. UHBW is known for its excellent patient care, innovative research, and commitment to safeguarding a diverse and inclusive workforce.

Job Overview

As a Finance Officer at UHBW, you will be responsible for various tasks within the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable teams. Your main duties will include processing invoices, resolving disputes, maintaining supplier accounts, managing customer queries, and monitoring debts. You’ll be working closely with both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring smooth financial operations and accurate financial records.

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Payable Responsibilities

Invoice Processing: Match supplier transactions to official orders, ensuring accurate details for financial codes, VAT, and charges.
Non-PO Invoices: Ensure proper entry of location codes and descriptions before uploading to the ledger.
Supplier Account Reconciliation: Communicate with suppliers and internal approvers to ensure account accuracy.
Invoice Approval: Upload non-purchase order invoices to the system for budget holder approval.
Problem Resolution: Investigate and resolve issues promptly, ensuring effective communication with all parties involved.
Mail Management: Assist in the management of busy mailboxes and telephone queries from suppliers and internal teams.

Accounts Receivable Responsibilities

Charges and Statements: Assist in the preparation of customer charges, dunning letters, and statements.
Debt Management: Monitor customer payments and ensure compliance with agreed terms of payment.
Customer Queries: Promptly log and resolve customer queries, ensuring clear communication and updates.
Sales Invoices Distribution: Print and distribute sales invoices, reminder letters, and debtor statements as needed.
Team Collaboration: Work closely with the team to meet key deadlines and performance targets.

Required Skills and Qualifications

To excel in this role, you will need a solid background in finance, strong numeracy skills, and excellent communication abilities. Below are the key qualifications and skills required:

Essential Skills and Experience

Numeracy Skills: Strong numerical abilities to accurately handle financial data.
Communication Skills: The ability to communicate clearly and effectively with colleagues and customers from non-financial backgrounds.
Attention to Detail: Keen eye for accuracy in data entry, invoice processing, and account reconciliation.
Deadline Management: Proven ability to meet deadlines and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
Financial Systems Experience: Experience using computerised financial systems (preferred, but not mandatory).

Desirable Skills and Experience

Customer Service Experience: Experience in resolving customer disputes and managing sensitive issues.
Basic Accounting Knowledge: Familiarity with basic accounting concepts and techniques.
Transaction Services Experience: Understanding of how transaction services interact with other finance functions within an organisation.
Team Leadership: Ability to train and mentor new team members in finance-related tasks.

Essential Qualifications

GCSEs: A-C in Maths and English or equivalent qualifications.
ECDL or Equivalent: Good knowledge of computer systems and Microsoft Office.
NVQ Level 3 in Finance/Related Subject: Or equivalent qualification.

Desirable Qualifications

Customer Care Qualification: Equivalent to NVQ Level 3.
Finance Certifications: Additional qualifications in finance or related areas.

Why Work at UHBW?

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest and most reputable healthcare providers in the UK. Here are some reasons why joining UHBW can be an excellent career move:

Diverse and Inclusive Work Culture: UHBW is dedicated to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the local population and ensures equal opportunities for all.
Career Development: With over 13,000 staff members across more than 100 clinical services, UHBW offers excellent opportunities for career growth and development within the healthcare finance sector.
Commitment to Excellence: The Trust has been rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), ensuring that you will be part of an organisation focused on delivering high-quality care and excellent service to its patients.
Work-Life Balance: Enjoy the best of both worlds with city living close to countryside or seaside destinations, offering a great balance of professional and personal life.

Benefits of the Role

Working as a Finance Officer at UHBW offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

Salary: £24,625 to £25,674 per annum (pro rata).
Flexible Working: Option for remote working alongside office-based duties, providing a better work-life balance.
Pension Scheme: Access to the NHS Pension Scheme, ensuring a secure future.
Professional Development: Opportunities for training and development within the finance sector.
Inclusive Environment: Work in an inclusive and supportive environment with a commitment to safeguarding and promoting welfare.

Application Process

To apply for the Finance Officer position at UHBW, you will need to complete the application through the NHS Jobs website by the closing date of 28 May 2025. Ensure that your application includes the following:

Detailed CV: Highlight your relevant finance experience, qualifications, and skills.
Personal Statement: Explain why you are interested in the role and how your experience matches the job requirements.
References: Provide at least two professional references who can vouch for your suitability for the role.

Apply Here

For more information, refer to the job description document attached to the vacancy.

About University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

UHBW is an integrated NHS Trust serving a population of over 500,000 people across the South West of England. With a workforce of more than 13,000 staff members, UHBW is dedicated to providing high-quality care across multiple hospitals and clinical services. The Trust’s vision is to provide excellent care for patients, delivered by highly skilled professionals in a collaborative and inclusive environment.

The Trust has earned a reputation for its forward-thinking approach, having been rated ‘Good’ by the CQC. It is also recognized for its world-leading research and innovative healthcare solutions that have a significant positive impact on both local and global health.

Additional Information

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check: This role is subject to a DBS check to ensure the safety of vulnerable individuals.
Certificate of Sponsorship: UHBW is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from job seekers who require sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Visa route. This role is eligible for a Certificate of Sponsorship, and international candidates are encouraged to apply.

If you meet the criteria for this position and are ready to take the next step in your finance career within the NHS, apply now to join a dynamic and impactful healthcare organisation.