Finance And Office Assistant

The Criterion Theatre is one of the few independent theatres in London’s West End and all profits generated from our theatre are put back into the running and care of this unique historic venue.

We are recruiting for a Finance and Office Assistant who will work within the Finance Department and provide admin/office support including PA support for the Managing Director. The role is currently office based Tuesday to Friday and Monday is home working as the theatre is closed on Mondays.

The role is jointly managed by the Finance Manager and Managing Director.

Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday and will include some evening and/or weekend shifts as operationally required.

Application closing date 28 June and interviews will be held week commencing 1 July 2024

The key responsibilities are:

Accounts Payable

• Processing purchase ledger invoices into the financial system, ensuring that all purchase invoices are coded correctly
• Processing weekly payment run
• Reviewing supplier statements, requesting copies of missing invoices and responding to queries
• Maintain purchase ledger invoice filing system
• Extracting monthly direct debit purchase ledger invoices and posting on to the financial system

Accounts Receivable

• Processing weekly box office system generated invoices and other hire invoice requests
• Performing credit control duties, including sending weekly statements, escalating any debt collection concerns to the Finance Manager
• Maintaining the filing system for the sales ledger invoices including all supporting documentation

Banking

• Ensuring all receipts and payments are accurately posted into the finance system
• Ensure prompt banking of any cheques and cash received
• Weekly bank reconciliations
• Reconcile daily credit card income with front of house and box office systems, accounting for any commissions

General Finance and Administration Support

• To provide general finance administrative support including assistance in preparation of and during the annual audit

Administration/Office Assistant

• General administrative support for the theatre
• Provide PA and administrative support to the Managing Director
• Administrative support for Criterion New Writing courses and projects
• Management of the main office including IT support, telephone and Office equipment contracts
• Provide lunch break and associated cover for Reception/Stage door
• Assist stage door in management of daily deliveries as required
• To undertake any other duties that may be reasonably required
• Provide first aid cover

Skills and Experience

Previous experience within an arts/theatre organisation is not essential, but an understanding of and interest in the arts would be helpful in understanding the day to day running of the theatre.

• Demonstrable experience of working in a finance department
• Experience using accounting systems, with knowledge of the sales and purchase ledger
• Understanding of bookkeeping principles
• Proficient in using Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
• Excellent communication skills
• A highly organised, personable, and approachable individual with a can-do attitude
• Ability to prioritise workload to meet deadlines
• A keen eye for detail
• Motivated and proactive in carrying out daily, weekly, and monthly tasks
• Strong team player, with a hands-on attitude to support other team members as and when required

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.