At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our finance team to prepare journal entries and support financial reporting.
- Company: Be part of DFDS, a key player in European infrastructure.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive perks like free ferry travel, health support, and retail discounts.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on continuous improvement and personal development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your accounting career with hands-on experience and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or studying towards ACCA/CIMA with strong Excel skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Do you want to be a valued part of the critical infrastructure that serves communities across Europe and beyond? Are you looking for a position in which you can set direction and help shape our company? If so, then you could be the newest addition to our team as a Junior Local Financial Accountant.
About The Role
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Local Financial Accountant to join our finance team. This role provides an excellent opportunity for a developing finance professional to gain hands‑on experience and grow within a supportive environment. This position is ideal for someone early in their accounting career who is keen to build technical expertise, develop commercial awareness, and contribute to the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting.
Responsibilities
- Preparing and posting journal entries (JNLs) in line with accounting standards
- Performing balance sheet and bank reconciliations, ensuring accuracy, and resolving discrepancies
- Supporting the monitoring and reporting of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Managing and resolving finance‑related queries from internal stakeholders
- Maintaining and reviewing the general ledger, ensuring data integrity
- Assisting with month‑end and year‑end close processes
- Identifying opportunities for process improvements and increased efficiencies
- Supporting wider finance team activities and ad hoc reporting requirements
About You
You will be AAT qualified and/or studying towards, or part‑qualified in, ACCA or CIMA, with a solid understanding of accounting principles and practices. Previous experience in a finance or accounting role is desirable, alongside strong Excel skills, experience using financial systems, and a high level of numerical accuracy and attention to detail. You will be organised, able to manage competing priorities, and comfortable working to deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. We are looking for someone who is naturally curious and enjoys understanding the story behind the numbers. You will take a thorough and methodical approach to your work, demonstrate a strong sense of ownership and accountability, and be committed to continuous improvement. A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and the ability to work collaboratively as part of a supportive finance team are essential.
Working at DFDS
Join the movement and grow with us.
Benefits
- Full employee assistance programme and more:
- Life assurance cover
- Contributory company pension scheme
- Holiday Purchase Scheme
- Free ferry travel for up to 4 guests between Dover and Calais / Newcastle and Amsterdam with no limit on trips
- Proactive financial, emotional, mental, and physical health care support including face‑to‑face counselling, fast 24/7 access to a GP, a second medical opinion and legal support for colleagues and their family.
- Huge range of retail discounts from high street and online retailers
- Cashback on health care including dental, optical, physiotherapy, prescriptions, specialist consultations and much more.
- Access to myStrength, our Wellbeing platform, which has plenty of content to support and improve your mental wellness needs.
- Access to mental health first aid and opportunity to join support webinars with a focus on all areas of positive wellbeing.
While you’re with us, we want you to develop. At DFDS, we believe that development happens first and foremost through activities in the workplace. We will also offer training courses that can support you in your role, if needed.
Junior Local Financial Accountant employer: DFDS
At DFDS, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that values the growth and development of our employees. As a Junior Local Financial Accountant, you will benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages continuous improvement and offers extensive training opportunities. With a comprehensive employee assistance programme, generous holiday schemes, and unique perks like free ferry travel, DFDS is committed to ensuring your well-being and professional advancement in a dynamic environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Local Financial Accountant
✨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 DFDS.
✨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 DFDS'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 Junior Local Financial Accountant
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 DFDS
✨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.
