At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in preparing financial statements and support the finance team with various tasks.
- Company: Join a growing US-owned UK business with diverse operations.
- Benefits: Hybrid working model, exposure to multiple finance functions, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for process improvements and automation.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in accounting while studying for your qualification.
- Qualifications: Studying or part-qualified in CIMA/ACCA/ACA with good accounting skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Reporting to the Finance Manager and assisting the wider finance team, this is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate who is currently or has a desire to study for an accounting qualification to join a growing US owned UK business with operations across multiple platforms including UK and Irish Insurance Companies, Lloyd’s Syndicates and a large UK regional branch network. The role will offer the right candidate a wide range of responsibilities and exposure across the finance function and the wider business. Location for the role will be a hybrid between home working and the London office.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Preparation of journals and balance sheet reconciliations under both US GAAP and UK GAAP.
- Assist the team with various month and quarter end close processes.
- Assist with preparation of financial statements and assisting with audit queries.
- Own the Irish entity branches co-insurance financial process, involving reconciling fiduciary assets and liability ledgers and liaising with the Underwriting Assistants to ensure this process is efficient.
- Assist with process improvements across the finance division using automation.
- Documentation of key finance processes and controls.
- Providing support to the Finance Managers and Financial Accountants.
- All responsibilities will cover aspects of work across multiple entities including the UK and Irish Insurance Companies, MGAs as well as service/holding companies and the Lloyds syndicates.
- Ensure that all Governance and Compliance requirements are considered from a finance perspective, including SOX controls relating to the operations of the business.
Role Requirements and Skills
- Demonstrates good accounting skills.
- Good attention to detail.
- Strong communication skills.
- Demonstrates good problem-solving skills.
- A proactive and strong team player with the ability to be 'hands on' and adaptable to changes.
- High competence in Excel.
- Demonstrates strong working knowledge of financial accounting systems preferable Workday but not essential.
Qualifications
- Studying/Part Qualified CIMA/ACCA/ACA.
Experience
- 1-2 years' experience in a similar role.
- Degree in accounting or similar subject.
- Experience with Insurance companies is desirable, but not essential.
- Preferably previous financial reporting experience.
Assistant Accountant in London employer: Arch Insurance
Join a dynamic and supportive team at Arch Europe Insurance Services Ltd, where we prioritise employee development and offer a hybrid working model that balances home and office life in London. As an Assistant Accountant, you will gain invaluable experience across various finance functions while contributing to process improvements in a growing US-owned business, all within a culture that values collaboration and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Accountant in London
✨Get Involved with Campus Finance Societies
Join your university's finance or investment society — they're a goldmine for networking, guest lectures, and career fairs. These societies often host employers looking for entry-level talent like you, so get involved and make yourself known!
✨Attend Industry Workshops and Webinars
Look for workshops and webinars focused on banking and financial services. These events not only boost your knowledge but also let you connect with industry professionals who could help you land that entry-level role at places like Arch Insurance.
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Informational Interviews
Take advantage of LinkedIn to reach out to professionals working in banking, especially those who've started in entry-level positions. Politely ask for a quick chat about their experience and any advice they might have on breaking into the field.
✨Apply Directly through Company Websites
Don't just rely on job boards. Head directly to Arch Insurance's careers page and look for their entry-level openings. They might have opportunities that aren’t advertised widely, so keep checking back for new listings!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Accountant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Splash Your Skills on Your CV:In the banking and financial services realm, it's all about numbers and analysis. Make sure to highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or projects where you've used skills like financial modelling, data analysis, or risk assessment. Show us you can crunch those numbers!
Educational Achievements Matter:For an entry-level role, your grades and academic accomplishments are key. If you have any certifications, like CFA Level 1 or something similar, don’t forget to include them. We love seeing ambition and commitment to the industry, so flaunt those achievements!
Craft a Personal Touch in Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to show us your enthusiasm for banking and finance! Share why you're passionate about the industry and how your studies or previous experiences have prepared you for this role. We want to see that spark and motivation!
Use the Right Format and Language:In banking, clarity is king. Use a clean, professional format for your CV and cover letter. Make sure to avoid jargon, but don’t shy away from technical terms where appropriate – just keep it all clear and easy to read. Let’s see your professionalism shine through!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arch Insurance
✨Brush Up on Your Financial Knowledge
Since you're diving into the banking and financial services industry, make sure you're up to speed with current market trends and financial concepts. Be prepared to discuss things like interest rates and investment strategies, as you might get some technical questions that gauge your understanding.
✨Show Off Your Analytical Skills
Analytical skills are key in banking, so be ready to showcase how you've used them in your studies or any relevant projects. Prepare to tackle case studies or hypothetical financial scenarios during the interview that require you to analyse data and make informed decisions.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
As this is an entry-level role, they’ll likely look for how well you can collaborate and fit into their team. Think of examples from group projects or internships where you successfully worked with others. It'll help show that you're keen to learn and grow in a team-oriented environment.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Approach your interview with curiosity! Prepare insightful questions that reflect your knowledge of the industry, such as asking about the latest technology being implemented in their services. It shows you're genuinely interested in the company's operations and future.
