Finance Specialist

Background Skillnet Ireland is an enterprise-led body that supports the promotion and facilitation of workforce learning to sustain Ireland's economic growth and national competitiveness. Skillnet Ireland currently funds 60 plus learning networks, supporting over 15,000 companies and 50,000 trainees across the economy. Skillnet Ireland is a dynamic, multifaceted organisation funded by the Department of Education and Skills from the National Training Fund.  Skillnet Ireland is supported and guided by the major employer and employee representative bodies in Ireland. We are inviting applications for the position of Finance Specialist to join our team in our head office in Sandyford, Dublin. The Role The Finance Specialist will report to the Finance Manager and will provide a full invoice processing facility for Skillnet Ireland, ensuring payments are processed accurately and in a timely manner, complying with appropriate procedures and regulations. The successful candidate will play a key role in the efficient operation of the Finance Team, ensuring maximum flexibility to meet changing demands and prioritising work in order to deliver a high-quality frontline service. Key Responsibilities Coordinate payments and ensure payments are processed promptly and accurately, in accordance with financial regulations and standard operating procedures.  This extends to customer invoicing. Assist in the preparation of financial reports, internal audit, external audit and other reviews. Assist the Finance Manager in the preparation of monthly management accounts and analysis of variances. Undertake monthly reconciliation of bank accounts. Manage the purchase order system and maintain oversight of adherence to procedures. Preparation of accruals, prepayments and debtors control. Operate and utilise information and communications technology as appropriate, including MS Office, especially MS Excel and SAGE50. Assist with the identification and development of new ICT applications to improve the efficiency of services. Undertake all duties in accordance with statutory requirements, best practice, financial regulations and the scheme of delegation. Undertake all duties in accordance with Skillnet Ireland values ensuring that performance standards/targets are set and met within the agreed timescale. The Individual You are a part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CPA, ATI) with strong numerical skills and at least 2 years of experience in general accounting, and with a good working knowledge of the Sage 50 system. Excellent knowledge of payment formatting and processing Understands cash flows and their financial impact Understands debt recovery processes and has a tenacious attitude Excellent IT skills in MS Office especially MS Excel (inc pivot tables) and analytical tools, and SAGE50. Proactively effects change and process improvements High degree of accuracy and strong analytical skills Excellent time and priority management skills with ability to handle competing priorities. Familiarity with on-line bank processing Demonstrates a high level of commitment and professional work ethic Demonstrates a logical approach to problem solving Works on own initiative while remaining team focused at all times Self-motivated and able to use own initiative Excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Keeps abreast of professional developments, legislative changes and attending Continuing Professional Development courses as appropriate and applying updated knowledge to present work programmes Awareness of Revenue rules and other requirements applicable to the public sector Terms: Permanent position, subject to probation period. Start Date: Immediate Salary: Dependent on experience Please forward your CV and a cover letter outlining why you believe you are suitable for this role via the Apply Now button. The closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm GMT, Tuesday, 8 th May 2018. This role is based in Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland. Further information on Skillnet Ireland is available at www.skillnetireland.ie Skillnet Ireland is an equal opportunities employer.