At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Finance team as a Finance Bid Analyst, supporting large bids and tenders.
- Company: First Bus is committed to inclusivity and diversity, serving communities with public transport solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy health perks, discounted travel, flexible working, and 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Positions available in Leeds and Bristol; background checks are standard for applicants.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative team, making a real impact on financial submissions and processes.
- Qualifications: CIMA, ACCA, or ACA qualified, or equivalent experience; bidding experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We have a fantastic opportunity for a Finance Bid Analyst to join our Finance team on a full-time permanent basis. This position can be based in either Bristol or Leeds.
The Finance Bid Analyst will work within the larger First Bus bid team acting as a finance Subject Matter Expert for large bids and tenders across the division, including franchising. This could involve supporting multiple bids, either within multiple tranches of franchise bids or across several different bids, at various stages of the bid cycle including PQQ (\"Pre-Qualification Questionnaire\"), ITT (\"Invitation to Tender\"), BaFO (\"Best and Final Offer\") and contractualisation.
The successful candidate will support the Bid Finance Managers to liaise with non-finance SME\'s across all areas of the business in order to provide insight to the requirements and securing the necessary inputs for the financial submission. In addition to which you will also be responsible for the maintenance of the Bid Finance Model where all financial inputs will be included.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Bid Finance Managers in running models and completing sensitivities for Large Franchise Opportunities
- Contribute to the preparation of review documentation to enable completion of internal governance approvals.
- Contribute to the preparation of Financially related Bid Submission documentation
- Lead smaller non-Franchise Bids under Bid Finance Manage Oversight
- Review of bid and project documentation to fully understand the financial requirements and impact on financials of non-financial clauses.
- Responsible for the maintenance and development of any internal financial models required to support internal approvals and bid submission requirements, embedding any payment mechanism clauses.
- Liaise with other Business SME\'s including Group Tax, and Accounting teams to ensure financial model includes all current requirements and Group positions.
- Responsible for benchmarking of financial and non-financial data at a Bus and comparable business unit level.
- Identify and introduce process improvement and promote the continuous development of the modelling suite, and Bidding Process
Skills/Experience
- CIMA, ACCA or ACA qualified, or qualified by experience (QBE) or part qualified but working towards completion.
- Previous bidding experience advantageous.
- Computer literate – advanced Excel, Word and PowerPoint.
- Commitment to work to strict deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal, analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Collaborative thinking who will work well within a project team.
- Ability to distil large quantities of data into meaningful information.
Rewards & Benefits
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers24hr, 365 days a year mental healthsupport
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platformwith many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months serviceas well as a free bus pass
- Cycle to work scheme
- 25 days\' holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
- Flexible working
We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You\'ll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.
Finance Bid Analyst in Bristol employer: First Bus
First Bus is an exceptional employer that prioritises the health and wellbeing of its employees, offering comprehensive benefits such as free health services, discounted travel, and a supportive work culture that values diversity and inclusion. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will have opportunities to develop your skills in a collaborative environment while contributing to significant projects within the finance team in vibrant locations like Leeds and Bristol.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Bid Analyst in Bristol
✨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 First Bus. 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 Finance Bid Analyst in Bristol
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 First Bus.
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 First Bus'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 First Bus
✨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 First Bus.
✨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 First Bus 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 First Bus 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.
