About Us

We’re Heriot-Watt University Student Union, an independent charity buzzing with energy, driven by and for our students. We’re all about doing good, that’s why all surplus funds generated through Liberty’s Café, Geordies Bar and the Student Union Shop are channelled straight back into crucial student support services like our Advice Hub. So, yes, we're a charity, but we also mean business.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

At HWUnion, diversity isn’t just celebrated; it’s our strength. We thrive by bringing together voices from all walks of life, and we’re excited for you to help us champion this mission. At HWUnion, you’ll find more than just a job—you’ll find a community eager to welcome your talents. Let’s do something great together.

Role Overview

As the Assistant Accountant, you will be responsible for ensuring the day-to-day financial management of the Union is carried out effectively. This is not just about managing data; you will play an active role supporting financial planning, reporting, and compliance. You will collaborate with departments across the organisation, ensuring accurate financial records while supporting the strategic priorities of the Union. Your analytical skills and attention to detail will ensure that we maintain financial integrity and operate efficiently.

What You’ll Do

• Champion Financial Integrity: Ensure precise tracking, recording, and reconciliation of all income streams, banking transactions, and expenses to maintain financial transparency and accountability.
• Drive Efficient Payment Processes: Streamline accounts payable by managing invoices, credit notes, and purchase ledgers, while coordinating regular payment runs and expense claims with accuracy and efficiency.
• Empower Strategic Decision-Making: Support the CFO with key financial insights, assist in preparing comprehensive reports, and uphold audit and compliance standards to enable informed, strategic planning.

Your Superpowers

• Laser-Focused Accuracy: Like a superhero with pinpoint precision, you never miss a detail. You’ll ensure that every financial transaction is recorded accurately and every reconciliation is spot on.
• Proactive Problem Solver: No challenge is too big. With the foresight of a true superhero, you spot potential issues before they arise and tackle them head-on with creative solutions.
• Master of Numbers: You wield spreadsheets and financial software like powerful tools, ensuring that our finances are in tip-top shape. Xero experience? That’s your secret weapon!
• Collaborative Crusader: You don’t work in isolation. You’re a team player who can demystify financial processes for non-financial colleagues, making sure they understand and appreciate the value you bring to the organisation.
• Tech-Savvy Sidekick: Your skills with Excel and financial software are legendary. Complex data? You handle it effortlessly, turning figures into actionable insights that drive our financial success.
• Adaptability Extraordinaire: Whether it’s a sudden shift in priorities or a tight deadline, you remain unflappable. Your superpower is thriving in a fast-paced environment, always staying ahead of the curve.

Values

• Integrity and Accountability: You own your decisions and their impacts — big, small, and everything in between.
• Collaboration: You know that the best results come from working together, sharing ideas, and solving problems collectively.
• Passion: You bring energy to everything you do, inspiring everyone around you to do the same.

Who You Are

• Accountability: You take ownership of your role and understand the importance of financial accuracy in achieving our mission. 
• Student-Focused: You recognise that strong financial management supports the broader goals of improving student services. 
• Results-Oriented: You strive to meet financial targets and uphold the Union’s financial integrity. 
• Collaboration and Communication: You provide clear, accurate financial guidance across all levels of the Union. 

Activities

Primary Duties

• Financial Management: Ensure the accurate recording and reconciliation of all income streams on a daily basis. 
• Accounts Payable: Recording of all invoices and credit notes, purchase ledger administration, conducting reconciliations, preparing & managing regular payment runs.
• Banking: Recording of banking transactions and reconciliations
• Expense Processing: Manage staff and student expense processes, ensuring claims are processed efficiently and in line with budget controls.
• Financial Reporting: Assist in preparing financial reports, including monthly management accounts and end-of-year accounts.
• Audit and Compliance: Support financial audits by providing accurate and timely data, ensuring adherence to statutory and regulatory obligations
• Support the CFO in providing relevant financial information to the organisation

other duties

• Any other duties deemed appropriate for the role by the Line Manager.
• Comply with all HWUnion policies, procedures, and governing documents.
• Undertake personal and professional development as required to maintain appropriate knowledge and skills.
• These duties are a guide to the work that the post holder will initially be required to undertake. Other duties or a change of duties may be necessary from time to time.

What next?

For an informal chat about this role, contact Fiona, CFO on F.Hall@hw.ac.uk.

If this job sounds right up your street, click "Apply Now" below to fill in our online application form!

Click here to download the full Job Description and Person Specification.