At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Senior Finance Manager in management accounting and reporting tasks.
- Company: Join the Finance team at a prestigious University in Durham.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and enjoy a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on exciting projects and enhance your career in finance.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by guiding non-financial colleagues in understanding their budgets.
- Qualifications: A keen interest in finance and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The Assistant Accountant sits within the newly formed Management Accounting and Reporting team within Finance at the University. The role is responsible for assisting the Senior Finance Manager with the development and operational requirements of the University's management accounting and reporting function. The role will have a key focus on providing accounting and reporting support to non-financial colleagues and budget holders across the role's remit and, as such, will build strong working relationships with budget holders and finance teams, offering clear financial guidance across all levels of seniority to communicate, guide and educate our colleagues in our management accounting requirements.
Duties will include, but not be limited to:
- Assisting in preparation, review and commentary of the monthly management reporting pack including variance analysis against budget, forecast and prior periods highlighting key drivers and risks.
- Ensure that budget holders are informed with regular reporting and engaging directly with budget holders to ensure that their financials are understood.
- To actively support the Senior Finance Manager with system improvement and process enhancements to the management accounting and reporting function, including project involvement as required.
- To lead on the processing of journals within the role's remit and to manage month-end and year-end activities including accruals and prepayments.
- Prepare and review general ledger reconciliations, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with internal controls.
- Investigate and resolve reconciling items promptly, maintaining clear audit trails.
- Produce management reports and ad-hoc analysis for stakeholders and funding bodies.
- Assist with internal and external audits and liaise with auditors as required.
- Undertake additional finance projects or tasks as required.
Assistant Accountant - Durham employer: Durham University
The University offers a dynamic and supportive work environment for the Assistant Accountant role in Durham, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth. Employees benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, a commitment to work-life balance, and the chance to engage with diverse teams across the institution. With a focus on innovation and continuous improvement, this position not only enhances your accounting skills but also allows you to make a meaningful impact within the university community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Accountant - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Reach out to current or former employees at the University, especially in finance roles. They can provide insider info and might even refer you directly, which can give your application a serious boost.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your management accounting knowledge. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific scenarios, like variance analysis or budget reporting. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your communication skills! Since you'll be working with non-financial colleagues, practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to build strong relationships across the board.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at the University.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Accountant - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Accountant role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially in management accounting and reporting. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your ability to build strong relationships with budget holders and finance teams.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since the role involves variance analysis and financial reporting, make sure to showcase your analytical skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully handled similar tasks in the past – we love seeing real-life applications!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on your accounting principles and be ready to discuss key financial concepts. Since the role involves variance analysis and reporting, make sure you can explain how you would approach these tasks and provide examples from your past experience.
✨Build Rapport with Budget Holders
Since you'll be working closely with non-financial colleagues, practice how you would explain complex financial information in simple terms. Think of ways to demonstrate your communication skills and how you can help others understand their financials during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to discuss a time when you identified a financial discrepancy or improved a process. Highlight your analytical skills and how you approach problem-solving, as this will be crucial for managing reconciliations and audits.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the management accounting processes, and any ongoing projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute effectively to the team.
