Banking Assistant

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

Cognita now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Banking Assistant to join our fantastic team on a fixed-term basis.

About the role

As a Banking Assistant, you will play a crucial role in the UK Finance team, reporting directly to the Treasury Officer. Your primary responsibilities include reconciling bank accounts for UK Schools, managing the Direct Debit administration and collection process, and facilitating parent refunds. You will ensure that all banking reconciliations are carried out accurately and timely, enhancing our customer service. Your ability to streamline financial processes and resolve queries from parents and colleagues will contribute significantly to the team's efficiency. Additionally, you will assist in bi-monthly reporting and support audit requests, working collaboratively with various stakeholders. Your attention to detail and understanding of bank reconciliation principles will be key to your success in this role.

This is a full-time, 1-year fixed term contract immediately available. This role is mainly remote however some travel to Head Office (London) is required.

To view the full job description, click here.

Who we are looking for:

We are seeking a self-motivated individual with a strong ability to handle large volumes of data and present it clearly. You should have excellent analytical skills, enabling you to propose effective solutions. With a solid background in finance and experience in bank reconciliations, you must be detail-oriented and well-organised. Strong teamwork and communication skills are essential, as you will collaborate closely with colleagues and interact with parents. A commitment to safeguarding and a proactive attitude toward improving processes are also desirable qualities we seek in our ideal candidate.

As well as:

• A minimum A-C in GCSE English Language and Mathematics and of 2 A-Levels (A-C)
• High level of IT skills especially MS Office (including Excel; pivot tables, formulas, and lookup capability)
• Experience of producing bi-monthly reports
• Experience of providing customer service within a professional environment with a proven ability to manage difficult or sensitive conversations
• Experience of working in a school or educational environment and knowledge of Direct Debit banking requirements are desirable but not essential

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Aviva Pension
• 25 Day Holiday Allowance + Bank Holidays
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third-party discounts
• Professional Development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is 20th April 2025.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

EARLY APPLICATIONS ARE ENCOURAGED, WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO INTERVIEW AND APPOINT PRIOR TO CLOSING DATE FOR THE RIGHT APPLICANT.