At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial management and decision-making across the Council with high-quality analysis.
- Company: Join the London Borough of Harrow's Finance Directorate for impactful work.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in a dynamic local government environment with career growth.
- Other info: Collaborative culture focused on problem-solving and high-quality customer service.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in financial sustainability and continuous improvement.
- Qualifications: Experience in financial analysis, strong analytical skills, and AAT qualification or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
The London Borough of Harrow is seeking a Finance Analyst to join the Finance Directorate. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional to play a key role in supporting effective financial management and decision-making across the Council.
Reporting to the Finance Manager, the postholder will provide high-quality financial analysis, professional advice and business partnering support to service managers, budget holders and senior leaders, helping to drive financial sustainability and continuous improvement.
The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting budget setting, financial monitoring, forecasting and year-end processes across a range of service areas. You will analyse complex financial information, identify risks and opportunities, and provide clear, evidence-based advice that supports informed decision-making.
Working closely with budget holders and operational managers, you will help strengthen financial management practices, improve understanding of financial performance and ensure compliance with corporate policies, financial regulations and statutory requirements.
This varied and rewarding role offers opportunities to contribute to financial planning, system development, process improvement and transformational projects across the organisation. You will prepare reports, grant claims, working papers and audit information, while helping to improve financial controls and governance.
The ideal candidate will combine strong technical finance skills with excellent analytical ability, communication skills and a proactive approach to problem solving, enabling them to add value across a complex and dynamic local government environment.
About You
- Experience providing financial analysis, support and advice within a finance or accounting environment
- Strong analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and identify key trends
- Experience supporting budget setting, financial monitoring, forecasting and year-end processes
- Ability to explain financial information clearly and confidently to non-finance managers and stakeholders
- Experience of using financial systems and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel
- Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to use initiative and professional judgement to resolve financial issues
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and work to strict deadlines
- A proactive and collaborative approach, with a commitment to continuous improvement, financial governance and high-quality customer service
- AAT qualification, part-qualified CCAB status (or equivalent), or significant relevant finance experience
For more information, please refer to the Role Profile/ Selection Criteria.
Finance Analyst employer: Harrow Council
Harrow Council is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering an inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its employees. As a Deafblind & Multi-Sensory Inclusion Advisor, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and young people while benefiting from comprehensive training and support in a collaborative environment. Located in London, the council offers unique advantages such as access to diverse resources and a commitment to community engagement, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Analyst
✨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 Harrow Council. 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 Analyst
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 Harrow Council.
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 Harrow Council'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 Harrow Council
✨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 Harrow Council.
✨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 Harrow Council 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 Harrow Council 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.
