Group Accountant

Group Accountant

Full-Time 45000 - 55000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage month-end close tasks and ensure compliance with accounting standards.
  • Company: Join Network Plus, an award-winning utility and infrastructure services provider.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, full benefits package, and a commitment to diversity.
  • Other info: Opportunities for career growth and development in a dynamic team.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in finance while working in a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Qualifications: Qualified accountant (ACA/CIMA/ACCA) with strong analytical skills.

The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.

Key Responsibilities

  • Ensure the month end close tasks are completed within the agreed reporting deadline.
  • Ensure accounting entries are in line with latest FRS 102 accounting standards, and implementing new processes where gaps are identified.
  • Be a point of contact for audit requests and queries.
  • Produce variance analysis between the weekly reporting outputs and monthly management accounts, and work with the commercial finance team to reduce variances identified.
  • Identify and manage risks and opportunities in reported results.
  • Prepare and own the Finance Risk Register, working with other finance departments to identify risks and mitigating controls.
  • Own the month end balance sheet reconciliations, ensuring all are completed within agreed deadlines and review certain reconciliations.
  • Support ad hoc projects as designated.
  • Proactively identify improvements (through root cause analysis), making recommendations and successfully implementing new ways of working gaining the full support of stakeholders and colleagues alike.

Experience and Qualifications

  • Qualified (ACA / CIMA / ACCA or equivalent).
  • Preferred background in audit or experience working in a large business with robust controls and adherence to reporting deadlines.
  • Previous experience managing or coaching team members desirable.

Key Skills

  • Intermediate / advanced Excel, PowerPoint and Word.
  • Excellent understanding and working knowledge of accounting and reporting systems, applicable legislation and the statutory and regulatory framework.
  • Problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • A continuous improvement mentality with the ability to challenge existing processes.
  • Strong knowledge of Financial Reporting Standards and other developments within global accounting practices and the ability to apply within the company.

Salary and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary based on experience along with a full benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Network Plus is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. We are Armed Forces-friendly. We welcome applications from ex-Armed Forces personnel, reservists, armed forces veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners.

We understand that privacy and the security of your personal information is extremely important. By applying for this role, you agree to the terms of our privacy policy.

About Network Plus

Network Plus is an award-winning business delivering essential utility and infrastructure services for the UK's major providers of gas, power, telecoms, transport, water, and wastewater. We value the variety of experience, perspective, and other points of difference our workforce, clients, and supply chain offer. We are actively working with colleagues across the Network Plus Group to develop an inclusive environment - we want all our employees to feel valued and included to enable everyone to thrive at work and understand the value of their contribution matters no matter their background, identity, or circumstances.

Group Accountant employer: Alder Forest

Network Plus is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and inclusivity, making it a fantastic place for a Group Accountant to thrive. With a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, employees are encouraged to develop their skills in a supportive environment that values diversity and fosters collaboration across teams. Located in the UK, Network Plus offers unique opportunities to work on essential utility and infrastructure services, ensuring that every team member's contribution is recognised and valued.

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Contact Details:

Alder Forest Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Group Accountant

Tap into Campus Networks

If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.

Get Certified

Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.

Connect on Professional Platforms

Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.

Apply Directly and Be Proactive

Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Alder Forest. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Group Accountant

FRS 102 Accounting Standards
Audit Management
Variance Analysis
Risk Management
Balance Sheet Reconciliation
Root Cause Analysis
Continuous Improvement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Alder Forest.

Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.

Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Alder Forest's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Alder Forest

Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills

Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Alder Forest.

Prepare for Case Studies

Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.

Show Your Passion for Finance

Since this is a full-time position, employers at Alder Forest will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.

Network with Industry Professionals

Before your interview, reach out to current or former Alder Forest employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.