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- Tasks: Manage financial costs and support month-end deliverables in a luxury retail environment.
- Company: Join the iconic luxury department store, Harvey Nichols, in London.
- Benefits: Enjoy up to 40% off fashion, hospitality, and beauty products, plus a clothing allowance.
- Why this job: Be part of a diverse team and make an impact in luxury retail finance.
- Qualifications: Qualified or part-qualified accountant with strong Excel skills and finance experience.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with career development opportunities and a focus on inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you love all things finance? Are you a qualified or part-qualified accountant? Do you love all things luxury retail? If YES, we may have the role for you…
Luxury department store, Harvey Nichols, is searching for a Financial Accountant (Costs) in our Head Office in London – Knightsbridge. Our culture is based on inclusivity; we embrace diversity. Whoever you are, Harvey Nichols has a place for you.
How we reward your hard work…
At Harvey Nichols, we champion career development and are passionate about our people. We will do all we can to support your journey and career path with us. Alongside this you will have access to a world of amazing benefits such as:
- Up to 40% off fashion
- Up to 40% off hospitality, foodmarket and hampers
- 30% off beauty and perfumery, wine and spirits
- Clothing allowance
You will also have access to charity days, a season ticket/bike loan; learning and development opportunities; to our Employee Assistance Program - Retail Trust and recognition schemes and the opportunity to join one of our employee groups – Wellbeing, Diversity & Inclusion and Sustainability. These are just some of the reasons people join and stay!
About the role…
As Financial Accountant (Costs) you will be responsible for posting & analysis of all stores & Head Office costs, including calculation of accruals and prepayments, therefore this individual will be a key member of the Harvey Nichols Financial Accounting team to deliver month end deliverables. Also responsible for the preparation of the relevant balance sheet reconciliations on a monthly basis and providing full support & visibility to the business on cost reporting. In addition preparation of annual statutory accounts and tax computations for Harvey Nichols companies.
The roles and responsibilities in this Financial Accountant (Costs) include:
- Ensure all month end journals are calculated and processed accurately and on a timely basis. Liaise with purchase ledger, sales ledger, sales accounts, payroll and finance department colleagues.
- Ensure balance sheet reconciliations are completed on a monthly basis, with issues resolved on a timely basis.
- Circulating cost reports to all sites and Head Office, including Directors and Senior Managers. Respond to queries as appropriate.
- Provide commentary to explain all variances against budget and last year.
- Prepare ad-hoc analysis by department as requested by Director/cost controllers.
- Assist in the preparation of the monthly management pack.
- To provide support to the Financial Accounting Manager and provide cover within the team as required.
- Assist in preparation of budgets and forecasts.
- Provide information required for the half year and year-end audits with explanations of movements, trends and large/unusual variances.
- To support the Financial Analyst in preparation of balance sheet related schedules including prepayments and accruals analysis and significant debtors and creditors analysis.
- To work closely with the Financial Accounting Manager and Group Accountant in the preparation of year-end statutory accounts and tax computations.
- To support in the preparation the quarterly UK VAT return and bi-monthly Irish VAT return and reconciliation of the VAT balance sheet accounts.
- To develop and maintain thorough knowledge of the operations of the business and the activities of other departments within the business.
- To plan and organise any other ad-hoc projects and take on any additional month end responsibilities as required by the Financial Accounting Manager.
Is this you?
We are looking for individuals who embrace diversity, love a challenge, are passionate about luxury retail and are looking for something uniquely different. Are you:
- Qualified / Part-qualified and studying towards an accounting qualification (ACCA/ACA/CIMA)
- Strong PC skills, particularly Excel (Intermediate to Advanced desirable)
- Retail experience would be advantageous
- Proven experience of working in finance department.
- Strong interpersonal skills – able to work as part of a team.
- Good communication skills – able to communicate to Directors and Senior Managers confidently.
- Able to work under pressure and to tight deadlines.
- Good planning and prioritisation skills. Able to work in a methodical manner.
- Good attention to detail.
- Interest in understanding systems and making improvements.
Where do I sign?
If this sounds like you, we want to hear from you! If you are already thinking of what you will wear on your first day (no we don’t have uniforms) and this role catches your eye, hit the “apply” button below to kick-start your journey with us.
Financial Accountant in London employer: Harvey Nichols
Contact Detail:
Harvey Nichols Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Accountant in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance world, especially those who have experience in luxury retail. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Harvey Nichols and its culture. Understand their values around inclusivity and diversity, and think about how your skills as a Financial Accountant can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! You’ll need to confidently explain financial concepts to Directors and Senior Managers. Try mock interviews with friends or use online resources to sharpen your pitch.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to enjoying those fab employee benefits we offer!
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Accountant in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Financial Accountant role. Highlight your accounting qualifications and any relevant retail experience to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about finance and luxury retail. Share specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your strong PC skills, especially in Excel! We want to see how you can bring your analytical abilities to our team, so be sure to highlight any relevant software or tools you’ve used.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us during the process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harvey Nichols
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Accountant, you'll be dealing with costs and financial data. Brush up on key financial concepts and be ready to discuss your experience with accruals, prepayments, and balance sheet reconciliations. This will show that you understand the role and can hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Excel Skills
Since strong PC skills, especially in Excel, are crucial for this position, prepare to demonstrate your proficiency. You might be asked about specific functions or how you've used Excel in past roles. Consider bringing examples of reports or analyses you've created.
✨Communicate Confidently
You'll need to liaise with various departments and communicate with senior management. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of examples where you've successfully communicated complex financial information to non-financial colleagues.
✨Embrace the Culture
Harvey Nichols values inclusivity and diversity, so be prepared to discuss how you align with these values. Share experiences that highlight your ability to work in diverse teams and your passion for luxury retail. This will help you connect with the company's culture during the interview.
