Please note this position is to be offered on a 12 month, fixed term basis
Interviews expected to be held 29/07/2020 for successfully shortlisted candidates


Would you like to play a key role in two exciting projects supporting SME's within the logistics and construction sectors to be more competitive? The Haven Gateway Partnership, a public/private sector partnership whose vision is to drive inclusive economic growth, is seeking a Finance and Compliance Administrator for its Transport and Logistical Efficiencies (TALE) and I-Construct projects, which are targeted business support programmes funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

The Finance and Compliance Administrator will have an eye for attention to detail and accuracy, and have demonstrable experience of working with systems and processes including CRM, finance and external claims systems as well as strong knowledge of Microsoft products and in particular Excel.

This role plays a key part in compiling each project's quarterly claim to the Managing Authority as well as processing claims and outputs from SMEs and providing reports and updates.

The role will require excellent verbal and written communication skills both internally and externally as well as the ability to self-motivate and manage multiple deadlines.

This role is funded through the 2014-2020 European Structural Investments Fund, initially for a 12 month fixed term contract. The Finance and Compliance Administrator will report to the Programme Manager within the Haven Gateway Partnership. This role will be home based with travel as required.


Job Purpose

* The Finance and Compliance Administrator will provide high quality and complex project support services to the project team and small medium enterprises (SMEs).
* This role plays a key part in supporting the effectiveness of the TALE and I-Construct projects by fully managing project compliance and risk registers, applications and claims from SMEs. Manages the project claims process to the Managing Authority and document retention, including procurement management documentation.
* A strong administrator, with an eye for attention to detail and accuracy, who has demonstrable experience of working with systems and processes. The role will require excellent communication skills as well as the ability to self-motivate and manage multiple deadlines.
* This role is funded through the 2014-2020 European Structural Investments Fund.


Accountabilities

* Responsible for fully managing the project's compliance and risk registers, identifying any risks and flagging to the project management team.
* Contribute to the successful delivery of the TALE and I-Construct projects by processing SME applications and grant claims effectively and accurately, within agreed timescales, liaising with SMES and the project team to resolve issues and queries. Prepare grant application packs for the grants panels.
* Responsible for the collation of outputs and evidence for the project claims process with the Managing Authority, including liaising with delivery partners for their claims, timesheets and evidence.
* Produce regular monitoring reports for review by the project management teams, as well as providing the Growth Hubs and the independent project evaluator with any information required on SME interaction, interventions and outputs.
* Provide high quality and effective project support in the organisation of compliance visits, support for audit and meeting the requirements of the Managing Authority.
* Responsible for developing and delivering appropriate systems and processes to enable efficient, effective and accurate data management. Contributing to implementing, maintaining, improving and regularly updating the CRM and any other data management system for the TALE and I-Construct projects.
* Deliver regular project progress updates to all external and internal stakeholders.
* Responsible for maintaining up to date knowledge of processes, corporate systems and standards, sharing useful knowledge and information to the team.
* Specific individual and shared targets and objectives are defined annually within the performance management framework.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

* Educated to NVQ Level 3 in Business Administration (or similar) or equivalent demonstrable experience.
* Evidence of continuing professional development with good knowledge in relevant professional area.
* Significant experience of MS Office suite of programmes and their practical application, as well as the ability to use computerised systems with a high level of speed and accuracy.
* Experience of implementing, maintaining and improving CRM systems and other data management systems.
* Demonstrate effective communication and engagement with the team, project team, customers and stakeholders to ensure an effective support service, with an ability to tailor communication to meet the needs of the audience.
* Ability to manage time effectively and demonstrate a wide understanding of customer needs, manage their expectations, solve simple problems and identify alternative solutions.
* Experience of working with ERDF, European or public funded projects is desirable but not essential.
* Ability to demonstrate a high level of attention to detail to ensure compliance with the Grant Funding Agreement is essential, as is a clear understanding of the implications to the project of non-compliance.


Benefits

Essex County Council is proud to offer an excellent benefits package to all its employees. More information can be found on the Working for Essex website.


Apply and next steps

In order to be considered please apply via the Working for Essex website, ensuring you upload an up to date CV and supporting statement when prompted.