At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial accounts and ensure project fiscal health from start to finish.
- Company: Join Gensler, a leading architecture and design firm known for creativity and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy medical insurance, pension plans, bonuses, and tuition reimbursement for professional development.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values creativity and financial integrity in projects.
- Qualifications: B.A. in Accounting or Business, 5+ years experience, fluent in French and English.
- Other info: This role is based in our vibrant London office; remote work is not an option.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Your Role
As a Gensler Project Accountant, you will be responsible for financial account management and analysis for the firm’s projects and business practices. As a dual French-English speaker, you will work closely with our Paris office from London ensuring the fiscal health of assigned projects throughout the entire project life cycle, from project due diligence through client invoicing and collections. Join a team of highly creative, collaborative colleagues and partner with Gensler project managers to ensure our projects are not only beautiful, but financially sound. Please note, this role is not remote. We look forward to working with our new Project Accountant in our incredible London office.
What You Will Do
- Work closely with Senior Project Accountant & Design Managers, establishing successful business relationships and ensuring accurate and consistent billing and financial reporting at the project and studio levels.
- Review project work plans, budgets, and staffing plans to ensure appropriate fees.
- Understand contract terms as it relates to fee management.
- Assist Design Managers in performing project start-up due diligence and following Firm best practices throughout the project life cycle.
- Provide accurate invoices to Clients per contract terms.
- Forecast actual vs. budget spending and analyse projects to provide meaningful input to project and office leadership.
- Monitor, analyse, and report on a variety of metrics at the studio level to ensure healthy business practices; become the studio leader for matters related to finance.
- Coordinate consultant invoices and payments.
- Review project labour and expenses with Design Managers for accuracy and appropriateness.
- Monitor Accounts Receivable and assist Design Managers with collection efforts.
- Provide training to Design Managers regarding financial maintenance of projects.
- Maintain organized project contract files.
- Act as financial and accounting liaison between the project, studio, and local/corporate accounting teams.
Your Qualifications
- B.A. Degree, preferably in Accounting or Business Administration.
- 5+ years of project accounting experience in a professional service firm, preferably an architecture or design firm.
- Fluency in English and French is essential.
- Must be able to understand contract terms as they relate to fee management.
- Highly proficient in Excel; experience with Deltek Vision software is a plus.
- Tableau Data Application experience a plus.
- Strong organizational skills, high level of accuracy, and keen attention to detail.
- Ability to effectively work in a high-volume environment under pressure with multiple tasks and strict deadlines.
- Willingness to embrace new technologies and constantly strive for greater efficiencies through process or technology.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to work as a team and interact professionally with employees, Clients and Vendors.
Life at Gensler
We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical and dental insurance, season ticket loans, pension, and twice annual bonus opportunities. As part of the firm’s commitment to professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional qualifications and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programmes or classes. We view our professional development programmes as strategic investments in our future.
This job description reflects the core activities of the role although there will be changes in the emphasis of duties as required from time to time. Please apply for this Project Accountant role and submit your CV for review. Candidates who do not meet the criteria will not be considered.
Project Accountant - French-speaking employer: Gensler
Contact Detail:
Gensler Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Accountant - French-speaking
✨Tip Number 1
Brush up on your financial terminology in both English and French. Being fluent is great, but understanding the specific jargon used in project accounting will help you communicate effectively with the team and clients.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Deltek Vision software if you haven't already. Since it's mentioned as a plus in the job description, having some knowledge of it can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the architecture and design sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with people who might provide insights or even referrals for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with project life cycles in detail. Be ready to share examples of how you've managed budgets, invoicing, and financial reporting in previous roles, as this will demonstrate your capability for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Accountant - French-speaking
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project accounting, especially within professional service firms. Emphasise your fluency in both French and English, as this is crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and how your skills align with Gensler's needs. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your financial management abilities and your capacity to work under pressure.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your proficiency in Excel and any experience with Deltek Vision or Tableau. These technical skills are important for the position and should be prominently featured.
Showcase Team Collaboration: Since the role involves working closely with Design Managers and project teams, include examples of past teamwork experiences. Highlight how you contributed to successful project outcomes through collaboration and communication.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gensler
✨Brush Up on Financial Terminology
Make sure you're familiar with key financial terms and concepts relevant to project accounting. This will help you communicate effectively with the interviewers and demonstrate your expertise in managing project finances.
✨Showcase Your Bilingual Skills
Since fluency in both French and English is essential for this role, be prepared to switch between languages during the interview. Practising common accounting phrases in both languages can give you an edge and show your confidence.
✨Prepare Examples of Past Experiences
Think of specific examples from your previous roles where you successfully managed project budgets or improved financial processes. Be ready to discuss these experiences in detail, highlighting your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
✨Understand Gensler's Culture
Research Gensler's values and work culture. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs can make a strong impression. Show that you're not just looking for a job, but that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their team.