At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our finance team and gain hands-on experience in accounting.
- Company: Be part of DFDS, a company serving communities across Europe.
- Benefits: Enjoy life assurance, pension scheme, free ferry travel, and wellness support.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape your career while contributing to financial accuracy and integrity.
- Qualifications: AAT qualified or studying towards ACCA/CIMA with strong Excel skills.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ 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. Be part of the movement - and play your part.
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.
You will be responsible for:
- 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.
We think the strongest teams are built on diversity and inclusivity. Contrasting opinions, varied skills and strong characters bring out the best in us all. And we cannot wait for you to join.
Working at DFDS
Join the movement and grow with us. Now about what we can give you. You’ll be able to access some fantastic benefits such as:
- 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
- Full employee assistance programme including: 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.
Are we a match? Then what are you waiting for? Apply Now.
If you think your personality, skills, experience, and desire match this role, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your CV as soon as possible, as we’re keen to meet potential candidates on an ongoing basis.
We look forward to hearing from you.
This recruitment process is managed by the DFDS Talent Acquisition team. We kindly ask external recruitment agencies to refrain from contacting us regarding this opportunity.
Junior Local Financial Controller employer: DFDS
At DFDS, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment where safety and professionalism are paramount. As an ADR Class 1 HGV Driver in Kettering, you'll enjoy a range of benefits including life assurance, a contributory pension scheme, and free ferry travel for you and your guests, all while being part of a diverse team that values inclusivity and personal growth. We are committed to your development, providing training opportunities and a comprehensive employee assistance programme to ensure your wellbeing and career progression.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior Local Financial Controller
✨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 DFDS. 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 Junior Local Financial Controller
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 DFDS.
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 DFDS'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 DFDS
✨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 DFDS.
✨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 DFDS 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 DFDS 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.
