Finance Officer (Development)

Pembroke College, Oxford, is seeking a highly organised and motivated Finance Officer (Development) to join its friendly and professional Finance team on a part-time basis (50% / 18.75 hours per week). This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance professional to play a vital role in supporting the College’s philanthropic activity and financial operations within a historic and forward‑looking academic community.

Founded in 1624, Pembroke is an inclusive and dynamic College based on a central site in Oxford, combining award‑winning modern developments with beautiful historic quadrangles. The College’s Fellowship and Governing Body have ambitious plans for the future, supported by a strong culture of engagement, fundraising, and public benefit.

The Finance Officer (Development) is a key member of the Finance team, providing essential support to both the Finance and Development functions. Working closely with colleagues across Accounts and Development, the postholder will ensure that donations, expenditure, and financial records are processed accurately, reported clearly, and managed in line with College policies and external regulatory requirements.

This is a pivotal role for someone who enjoys working with detailed financial information, values accuracy and integrity, and is keen to contribute to the success of the College’s development and fundraising activities.

Key Responsibilities

Development Finance Support and Recording Donations

·         Accurately record donations received through a range of channels, including direct debit, bank transfer, online platforms, cheques, and cash, using both finance and development systems.

·         Liaise closely with the Development Team to ensure donations are correctly classified and reported.

·         Reconcile donation records between systems to maintain consistency and accuracy.

·         Work with colleagues to identify missed pledge payments and recurring gifts.

·         Maintain well‑organised and reliable financial and donor data to support effective reporting.

Gift Processing

·         Prepare and submit Gift Aid claims in compliance with HMRC regulations.

·         Process fortnightly Direct Debits and associated amendments.

·         Maintain and update fund, campaign, and donor trackers, including research into historic funds.

Development Expenditure

·         Work with the Development Director to ensure development‑related expenditure is recorded correctly.

·         Monitor and report on Equals Money expenditure and other designated development funds.

Reporting and Budgeting

·         Produce clear and accurate reports on income and expenditure for Finance and Development teams.

·         Support reporting for the Finance & Planning Committee and Governing Body.

·         Assist with annual budget preparation and forecasting.

·         Produce cost‑centre and ad hoc reports as required.

General Duties

·         Provide flexible support to colleagues in Finance and Development.

·         Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems and processes.

·         Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role.

Benefits include:

·         Membership of the University staff pension scheme.

·         Free lunch when College kitchens are open.

·         Generous annual leave entitlement (pro rata).

·         Opportunities for professional development, including mentoring by qualified accountants and access to paid external training.

·         A supportive, inclusive, and collegial working environment.

About You

You will be an organised and detail‑focused finance professional with excellent numerical skills and a collaborative approach. You will be confident managing multiple priorities and committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial accuracy and confidentiality.

Essential criteria include:

·         Experience in purchase ledger, accounts payable, and/or income recording within a finance function.

·         Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and finance databases or systems.

·         High levels of numeracy, accuracy, and attention to detail.

·         Ability to prioritise effectively and meet deadlines.

·         Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to work with colleagues, suppliers, donors, and other stakeholders.

·         A proactive, flexible attitude and willingness to develop new skills.

Desirable criteria:

·         Experience in a charity, higher education, or not‑for‑profit environment.

·         Familiarity with donation management systems such as DARS.

·         Understanding of Gift Aid regulations and HMRC processes.

·         Experience liaising with external stakeholders, including donors and suppliers.