Support Officer (Research Finance and Support Officer)

About University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust

Situated in Leicester, UK, the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion, participating in initiatives like the Disability Confident Scheme to foster an inclusive culture.

Role Overview and Responsibilities

• Deliver exemplary financial assistance to project managers, research governance, and the broader research team involved in managing and conducting research studies, collaborating with clinical and non-clinical personnel and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ensure compliance with research regulations and facilitate necessary reporting duties.
• Support research governance activities in accordance with established guidelines and protocols.
• Participate proactively in the upkeep and advancement of databases and electronic systems.
• Assist in managing financial administration and maintaining accurate financial records related to research projects.
• Support team members with their financial tasks as required.
• Contribute to induction programs for new staff and training for research team members.
• Serve as a contact point for advice and support within the renal research team.
• Facilitate project, service, and initiative implementations by providing timely analysis and administrative support aligned with team priorities.
• Attend various meetings, recording concise and clear minutes and tracking action points effectively.
• Produce high-quality project and financial reports using Microsoft Office tools.
• Maintain financial documentation including trackers, folders, databases, and invoice requests.
• Collaborate seamlessly with local teams, ensuring adherence to organizational standards through electronic tools.
• Exhibit flexibility by assisting with ad hoc requests and extra duties as necessary.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

• Competent IT skills including internet usage, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and database management.
• Strong organisational skills coupled with effective time management abilities.
• Experience in invoicing, payment tracking, managing aged debt, invoice reconciliation with study activities, and liaison with sponsors.
• Background in administrative roles and project delivery.
• Demonstrated initiative in problem-solving and handling challenges.
• Work experience in a finance department, focusing on invoicing, accounts payable/receivable, data entry, and contract management.
• Minimum Grade C GCSE or equivalent in English and Maths.
• Knowledge of administrative systems and procedures with ongoing professional development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, teamwork abilities, and motivation.
• High attention to detail and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong organisational and prioritisation abilities to manage workload amidst changing priorities.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion, and maintaining confidentiality standards.

Desirable Attributes

• Experience in financial roles within NHS or clinical research environments.
• Project management knowledge and experience in collaborative relationship building.
• Understanding of clinical research terminology, commercial trial contracts, and NHS research processes.
• Qualifications such as NVQ Level 3, Business Level 3, or accounting/auditing credentials.

Values and Behaviours

Applicants must demonstrate behaviours aligned with the Trust's values, act with dignity and respect, and be committed to compassionate and inclusive leadership in care provision.

Additional Information

• Early applications are encouraged as vacancies may close ahead of the listed deadline once a sufficient pool of applicants is achieved.
• Applicants should monitor their email regularly throughout the recruitment process.
• The Trust is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming diverse applicants and providing guaranteed interviews for disabled candidates meeting essential criteria.
• Reasonable adjustments during recruitment are available upon request.
• Flexible working arrangements may be considered to balance work and personal responsibilities.
• Successful candidates performing regulated activity are subject to Disclosure & Barring Service checks, with costs initially covered by the Trust and recouped through salary deductions over three months.
• A COVID-19-related risk assessment is part of pre-employment procedures to ensure workplace safety; adjustments will be made for vulnerable individuals.
• The Trust advocates COVID-19 vaccination to protect staff, patients, and the community.
• University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust strongly supports diversity and inclusion to reflect the community it serves.