Ashley Hopps
Finance Service Assistant
Hire this person
Send a job offer directly to this candidate
About
A detail-oriented finance professional with a strong foundation developed through a diverse background in customer-facing and managerial roles. Over the past year, I have built practical experience within a busy finance department, working across accounts payable, accounts receivable, and core financial processes. I am AAT-qualified, with a solid understanding of financial principles and a strong commitment to continuous professional development.
Known for strong problem-solving skills, effective time management, and clear communication, I bring a proactive and adaptable approach to my work. I am now seeking to continue developing within the finance sector and build a long-term career.
Experience
Finance Service Assistant at Harlow College (2025-03 – Present)
- Assisted in achieving an excellent rating in the yearly audit
- Rapidly developed strong financial and accounting skills in a new sector
- Daily Banking- Reconcile bank transactions on a daily basis, maintain the cash book, and ensure all entries are accurately recorded and correctly coded
- Payments- Prepare and process weekly payment runs and ad hoc payments, ensuring all transactions comply with internal controls and are completed within required deadlines
- Accounts Payable- Manage the end-to-end accounts payable process, including processing purchase orders and supplier invoices, ensuring accurate coding, timely approvals, and maintaining supplier records; resolve queries promptly to support efficient operations and cash flow
- Accounts Receivable- Generate and issue sales ledger invoices, allocate incoming payments, and carry out credit control activities to reduce outstanding debt and maintain accurate customer accounts
- Financial Compliance- Ensure strict adherence to financial regulations, including purchase requisitions, invoice approvals, goods received processes, and payment authorisation requirements
- Cross-Department Communication- Liaise with internal departments to ensure accurate handling of orders, bursaries, and tuition fees
Restaurant Manager at Whitbread (2019-09 – 2021-10)
- Recognised as "Manager of The Year" in 2021
- Implemented a customer loyalty promotion that increased repeat business
- Staff management- Supervised and trained the front-of-house and kitchen team ensuring high standards of service and compliance with health and safety regulations
- Financial oversight- Managed budgets, monitored costs, and financial performance to meet revenue targets and optimise profitability
- Compliance- Ensured adherence to licensing laws, health regulations, and internal procedures, conducting regular audits and staff training
- Customer Service- Delivered exceptional customer service, resolving issues effectively and maintaining strong customer satisfaction and retention
Education
GCSE – Burnt Mill School (2007-09 – 2012-07)
NVQ in Light vehicle maintenance – Harlow College (2013-09 – 2014-07)
AAT Level Two Certificate in Bookkeeping – Harlow College (2025-01 – 2025-06)