Business & Finance Officer (maternity cover)
Starting salary: £32,115 (24/25 – new year TBC)
15 month fixed term | 37 hours per week (flexible working available)
Are you a confident finance professional who thrives on accuracy, problem solving, and playing a key part in keeping an organisation running smoothly? Do you enjoy variety in your day-to-day work, and working with a friendly, supportive team? If so, Frome Town Council would love to hear from you.
We are looking for a Business & Finance Officer (maternity cover) to join our Business Team to cover maternity leave, ideally starting as soon as possible. This is a fixed-term contract for a minimum of 15 months, offering an exciting opportunity to step into a busy, purpose-driven local organisation.
About the role
This is a key position in our Business Team. You’ll be responsible for ensuring our financial systems run smoothly and effectively – from bookkeeping and payroll to bank reconciliation and reporting. You’ll work closely with our Business Manager/Responsible Finance Officer, contributing both to the day-to-day operations and the strategic oversight of our financial and administrative functions.
You’ll also work with our Business Administrator to support and help coordinate front desk operations, playing a key role in ensuring the council’s services are well-supported and responsive.
Key responsibilities
- Maintain and reconcile all ledgers using Xero, Approval Max, Excel, Lemon Bookings and Staffology (training provided)
- Manage monthly payroll and pensions (or oversee external support)
- Monitor financial standards and maintain accurate internal controls
- Oversee the Council’s insurance arrangements, asset and risk registers
- Produce regular reports for internal committees and external audits
- Administer bank mandates, payments, and financial contracts
- Draft finance reports, support the budgeting process, and contribute to year-end preparations
This is an office-based role in our vibrant Town Hall in the centre of Frome, and includes regular interaction with staff, councillors, and external partners.
About you
You’ll hold an AAT Level 4 qualification (or equivalent experience), with a strong understanding of bookkeeping, payroll, and financial reporting. You’re methodical, highly organised, and have great attention to detail. You’re comfortable working on your own initiative but also enjoy being part of a close-knit, collaborative team.
We’re looking for someone with excellent IT and communication skills, a proactive mindset, and the ability to work flexibly and adapt to changing priorities. Experience with payroll, pensions, or public sector finance is desirable but not essential.
Why work with us?
- 25 days annual leave + public holidays (including 2 extra statutory days)
- Generous employer pension contribution
- A supportive, friendly team environment
- Flexible working arrangements to support work/life balance
- A chance to make a meaningful contribution to Frome’s community
Frome Town Council is an equal opportunities employer and embraces diversity in the workplace.
For an informal chat abut the role speak to Sarah Williams, Business Manager, 01373 475577
Application pack
Please send both the application and monitoring forms along with a CV detailing your education and work history to lflaherty@frometowncouncil.gov.uk
Closing date: by 9am on Monday 28 April 2025
Interview date: Thursday 8 May 2025
Volunteer as an Energy Advice Champion for Frome
If you can commit a few hours a week or month and would like to make a difference to people’s lives, reducing their energy bills and lowering their carbon footprint, we would love to hear from you.
We are looking for Energy Advice Champions to work with us to support our expanding Healthy Homes project delivered in partnership with Frome Medical Practice and the Centre of Sustainable Energy.
You will be a part of a friendly and supportive team, providing energy advice to groups and individuals with initiatives such as our regular drop in energy sessions, planned pop up events, and home visits (for those that need an additional support such as help with setting heating controls and draft proofing). We need support especially during the daytime, and in some evenings, so everyone is very welcome.
Full training will be provided and hours of volunteering can be flexible. For those that are interested, there will also be a free opportunity to complete a City & Guilds Level 3 in Energy Awareness.
If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Caroline Wajsblum: cwajsblum@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or 07597 700837
Volunteer as a Discover Frome Ambassador
Are you looking or a new fun role where you can chat about our fantastic town and support one of the town’s historic buildings? Volunteers are needed to help support Frome’s popular information point.
The friendly volunteer team provide information about events and activities taking place in the town as well as details about walking, cycling and exploring the area for residents and visitors alike. Anyone with time to spare, looking for a new opportunity or to gain skills and experience can volunteer their time on the days that suit them. The role includes opening and closing the Information Point as well as handling money and communicating directly with the public.
Full training will be given, to find out more about the position email info@frometowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01373 465757.
