Finance and Administration Assistant

Company: Brand McKenzie LimitedLocation: BorehamwoodWorking Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (37.5 hour week, Monday to Friday)Holiday Entitlement: 20 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays)Salary: Competitive, based on experienceAbout UsBrand McKenzie Limited is a creative and dynamic wallpaper company known for its bold, artistic, and unique designs. We supply high-end wallpapers to clients both in the UK and internationally. As our business continues to grow and we expand our product portfolio, we are seeking an experienced and strategic Operations Coordinator to lead our administrative functions and support our business expansion.Job OverviewWe are looking for a highly organised, proactive, and self-motivated Finance and Administration Assistant to oversee and optimise our day-to-day operations. This role goes beyond traditional administration, requiring someone who can think strategically, improve processes, manage systems, and coordinate multiple priorities simultaneously. The ideal candidate will take ownership of order management, logistics coordination, customer service excellence, and operational efficiency while supporting the Directors with key business activities.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & Order ManagementOversee the complete order lifecycle from receipt to delivery, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and exceptional customer serviceImplement and maintain systems to track orders, stock levels, shipments, and customer interactionsIdentify opportunities to streamline processes and improve operational efficiencyGenerate regular reports on order volumes, delivery performance, and operational metricsManage relationships with key customers, addressing complex queries and resolving issues proactivelyLogistics & Supply Chain CoordinationCoordinate and optimise national and international shipments, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirementsNegotiate with couriers and freight companies to secure competitive rates and reliable serviceManage customs documentation, export paperwork, and international shipping protocolsTrack shipments, anticipate potential delays, and implement contingency plansMaintain relationships with logistics partners and evaluate service performanceSample Management & DistributionOversee the sample distribution programme, ensuring timely and accurate dispatch to customers, stockists, interior designers, and press contactsMaintain optimal sample stock levels and coordinate with production for sample preparationDevelop and implement systems to track sample requests and measure conversion ratesSupport marketing initiatives through efficient sample coordinationCustomer Service & Account ManagementServe as the primary point of contact for customer inquiries, providing expert product knowledge and supportBuild and maintain strong relationships with key accounts, stockists, and trade customersHandle escalated customer concerns with professionalism and effective problem-solvingCollaborate with the sales team to support customer retention and business developmentAdministrative LeadershipManage all incoming and outgoing correspondence, prioritising and delegating as appropriateMaintain comprehensive filing systems, databases, and operational documentationSupport invoicing processes, purchase order management, and basic financial administrationCoordinate with the finance team on accounts receivable follow-up and credit controlAssist Directors with project coordination, research, and strategic administrative tasksManage office operations including supplies, equipment, and vendor relationshipsSupport team coordination and potentially supervise junior administrative staff as the business growsRequirements & SkillsEssentialMinimum 3 years' experience in an operations, administrative, or coordination role, ideally within creative, retail, or manufacturing sectorsProven track record of process improvement and operational efficiency gainsExceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple complex prioritiesStrong analytical and problem-solving abilitiesAdvanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)Experience with order management systems and CRM platformsExcellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to represent the company professionallyUnderstanding of international shipping, customs procedures, and logistics coordinationSelf-starter with the ability to work autonomously and take initiativeHigh attention to detail with a quality-focused mindsetDesirableExperience with accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)Knowledge of the interior design, home décor, or creative industriesExperience coordinating e-commerce operationsBasic financial administration or bookkeeping experienceProject management skills or certificationPrevious experience managing or mentoring junior staffWhat We OfferA friendly, creative, and collaborative working environmentOpportunity to play a key role in a growing brand with a unique product offeringCompetitive salary based on experienceEnhanced holiday entitlementProfessional development opportunitiesThe chance to shape operational processes and grow with the companyPotential for role progression as the business expandsHow to ApplyIf you are an experienced operations professional with a passion for efficiency, excellence, and creative industries, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you're interested in this role to info@brandmckenzie.com. Brand McKenzie Limited is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.