At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Compensation Accounting Manager with financial reporting and analysis for EMEA operations.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in a leading financial services firm focused on quality and control.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and enjoy a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Kickstart your accounting career with hands-on tasks and a chance to make a real impact.
- Qualifications: AAT Level 3 preferred; strong academic background and good communication skills required.
- Other info: Ideal for school leavers or fresh graduates eager to learn and grow in a competitive environment.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Main purpose of the role: To fully support the Compensation Accounting Manager to cover all aspects of Compensation Accounting primarily for the EMEA operations with a view to meeting all internal and external financial reporting deadlines. The successful candidate shall make an important contribution to the continued development of the Compensation Accounting team whilst constantly raising the bar in terms of quality and control. This is a great opportunity for school leavers with relevant work experience or fresh graduates who are eager to begin their accounting career.
Key responsibilities:
- To ensure the integrity of Comp related P&L and Balance Sheet on a timely basis across the EMEA operations of the Group through monthly postings to the GL followed by analytical review and reconciliations.
- Work closely with Senior Broker Compensation Accountant to ensure all Broker Compensation Accounting matters are closed out on a timely basis.
- Work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure matters are closed out on a timely basis.
- Calculating and posting revenue related monthly bonus accruals.
- Reviewing and adjusting accruals to be in line with forecasted desk pay out.
- Assist in preparation of timely management information including desk and broker performance reports.
- Ensure Comp related FX exposure is managed, controlled and reported on a timely basis.
- Coordinate commentary on monthly/quarterly P&L movement for global P&L analytics.
- Work closely with counterparts in US/Asia on relevant matters and share best practice.
- Assist auditors through timely delivery of files and responses to any queries.
- Ensure integrity of confidential name detail information.
- Identify and implement improvements within Compensation Accounting processes through development and concise documentation of policies and procedures.
- Support Compensation Accounting Manager on ad-hoc issues.
- Be alert to Conduct Risk issues, specifically the risk of harm to client interests, market integrity and/or competition in financial markets due to inappropriate practices or behaviours across the firm.
Skills / experience required:
- A strong academic background.
- Minimum AAT Level 3 Qualification preferable.
- Financial services experience desired but not essential.
- Good written and verbal communication skills with the ability to interact with stakeholders throughout the Group with a view to developing and maintaining strong relationships.
- Possess a pro-active attitude with an ability to take responsibility.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Supervisory skills would be advantageous.
- Ability to meet deadlines, organise and prioritise.
Systems used:
- Strong MS Excel skills (including vlookups, pivot tables, sumifs and charts).
- Prior experience with Essbase and Oracle General Ledger preferable.
- Other Microsoft Office applications.
Personal attributes:
- The successful candidate will require excellent personal presentation and have confidence operating in a competitive work environment and can handle challenging situations sensitively.
- Appetite to study and gain necessary accounting qualifications.
- Proactive and adaptable, able to work well under pressure.
- Ability to evaluate issues and situations to enable timely decision making with little need for upward reference whilst escalating matters as necessary on a timely basis.
- Self-starter unafraid to ask questions and seek answers.
- Willing to take ownership, work without close supervision while also being a team player.
Contact Detail:
Cantor Fitzgerald Securities Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Compensation Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Understanding the specific tasks, such as managing P&L and Balance Sheet integrity, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the accounting field, especially those who work in compensation accounting or financial services. This can provide you with insights into the role and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your MS Excel skills, particularly with functions like vlookups and pivot tables. Being proficient in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also show your readiness for the technical aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your proactive attitude and ability to handle pressure during the interview. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase these traits, as they are highly valued for this position.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior Compensation Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of a Junior Compensation Accountant. Emphasise any accounting qualifications, such as AAT Level 3, and showcase your attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description. Explain how your background and skills make you a great fit for the role, and express your enthusiasm for starting your accounting career.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have any work experience, even if it's not directly in accounting, highlight transferable skills such as analytical abilities, communication skills, and teamwork. Mention any experience with MS Excel or other relevant software.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for an accounting role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cantor Fitzgerald Securities
✨Showcase Your Academic Background
Make sure to highlight your academic achievements, especially if you have an AAT Level 3 qualification. Be prepared to discuss how your studies have equipped you with the skills necessary for the role.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since this role requires strong attention to detail, be ready to provide examples from your past experiences where your meticulousness made a difference. This could be in previous jobs, internships, or even during your studies.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Brush up on your MS Excel skills, particularly vlookups, pivot tables, and sumifs, as these are crucial for the role. You might be asked to solve a problem or demonstrate your proficiency during the interview.
✨Exhibit a Proactive Attitude
The company values candidates who take initiative. Be prepared to discuss situations where you took ownership of a task or project, and how you handled challenges independently while still being a team player.