Finance Assistant
Hours: 35 hours per week.
Salary: £25,947 per annum
Location: Located at our Diocesan office in Stoke Gifford; there will however be an opportunity to explore and agree hybrid working arrangements which strike the right balance for the role holder and the Diocese.
Duration: Permanent post
The Organisation:
The Diocese of Bristol supports over 200 churches and 70 schools across the region. We are currently working through a period of transformation, improving our systems, processes, and the way we support our communities.
Role Overview and Duties
We are looking for a Finance Assistant to join our team, supporting the delivery of day-to-day finance operations across the Diocese.
This is a varied role offering exposure to key finance processes including bank transactions, purchase ledger, payments, and month-end activities. You will play an important part in ensuring financial data is accurate, well-controlled, and supported by clear audit trails.
This role would suit someone at an early stage of their finance career who is keen to develop their skills in a structured environment, with the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility over time.
Key responsibilities:
Bank transactions & reconciliations
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Post and allocate bank receipts and payments accurately
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Assist with bank reconciliations and investigation of discrepancies
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Support the resolution of unallocated or unclear transactions
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Maintain clear audit trails for all bank activity
Purchase ledger & invoice processing
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Process purchase invoices using our systems (including Lightyear), ensuring correct coding, VAT treatment, and approvals
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Monitor and manage the finance inbox, following up on missing information where needed
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Liaise with suppliers and internal teams to resolve invoice queries
Payments (BACS)
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Support the preparation and processing of payment runs
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Ensure all payments are complete, accurate, and appropriately authorised
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Assist with maintaining strong controls over payment processes
Expenses
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Process employee expense claims in line with internal policies
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Support staff with queries relating to expenses
Month-end & general finance support
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Assist with month-end processes and reconciliations
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Support investigation and correction of any discrepancies
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Maintain accurate records and documentation
Continuous improvement
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Contribute to improving finance processes and systems
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Support the team in maintaining efficient and well-controlled workflows
Desired Skills and Experience:
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Some experience in a finance or administrative role, or relevant studies (e.g. AAT level 2/3)
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Good attention to detail and a methodical approach to work
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Experience using accounting systems (e.g. Access or similar)
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Experience of working in a transactional finance environment
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Confidence using Excel and Microsoft Office
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Ability to be well-organised and to work accurately and calmly under pressure in a busy working environment
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Good communication skills and ability to work with a range of stakeholders.
We Also Offer
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Flexible working
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28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
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A contributory pension scheme and life assurance
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A Health Cash Plan
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Company sick pay
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Free onsite parking
If you recognise yourself in this description, please apply using the application form in the link below. All applications should be sent to jobs@bristoldiocese.org
If you would like further details about the role, please contact finance@bristoldiocese.org
Closing Date: 6 May 2026
Interviews: 12/15 May 2026
Job Pack Application Form Guidance Notes Privacy Notice
Transforming Church. Together Strategy Diocese of Bristol Employee Terms and Conditions
The Diocese of Bristol is committed to being a fair, respectful, and inclusive organisation. We believe that diversity enriches us and are dedicated to the promotion of equality where all are able flourish. Disabled people, and those from global majority heritage are currently under-represented in our organisation and we warmly welcome applications from within these groups.