At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial management and project reporting for exciting aerospace projects.
- Company: Join Leonardo, a global leader in defence and aerospace technologies.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values creativity and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic sector while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Part qualified in CIMA, ACA, or ACCA; strong communication and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Your impact
At Leonardo, we are looking for an Assistant Project Accountant to join our team in Luton. Leonardo is an international leader in electronic and information technologies for defence systems and aerospace. This exciting role blends home-based flexibility with time on-site in Luton. You’ll be an important part of both an integrated project team and the Luton Finance Team, providing support to the Senior Project Accountant on the financial management and project reporting for a portfolio of projects. You’ll be working in a dynamic, fast-paced business sector that looks to deliver innovative solutions in a global marketplace. This role gives you the chance to make a real impact, supporting both statutory requirements and the delivery of high-value customer solutions in a dynamic business sector.
As an Assistant Project Accountant you will:
- Support the Project Accountants and Financial Controller with preparation of sector monthly forecasts including assumptions, risks and opportunities and explanation of forecast movements.
- Support the business in producing robust monthly Contract Status Reports (CSRs) and quarterly Sales and Margin Trading Plans.
- Monitor financial performance through the Monthly Forecast and Business Planning processes.
- Work with the Project Team / budget holders to understand forecast, Business Plans and CSR movements.
- Ensure that the business focus is on cash flow, supporting raising of timely invoices and providing the required information to ensure that debt is paid in terms.
- Reconcile financial data and resolve problems/issues where appropriate to ensure integrity of information provided.
- Ensure all financial procedures and controls are applied as required; and support non-finance functions on their application.
- Support process improvement initiatives that drive the Finance function forward.
What you’ll bring:
- Part Qualified in CIMA, ACA or ACCA will be considered.
- IFRS 15 Revenue Recognition knowledge advantageous.
- Excellent communication skills, able to engage with both Finance and non-Finance colleagues, understanding their needs and providing support.
- Analytical and challenging mindset, able to question decisions within the integrated project team when appropriate.
- Proactive and flexible approach to work, with the ability to re-prioritise to meet key deadlines.
- Commitment to delivering high-quality outputs and support.
- Advanced Excel skills and proficiency in MS Office.
- Experience with SAP (advantageous).
- Enthusiastic, motivated, and eager to contribute to the projects and contracts you will be working on.
This is not an exhaustive list, and we are keen to hear from you even if you might not have experience in all the above. The most important skill is a good attitude and willingness to learn.
Security Clearance
This role is subject to pre-employment screening in line with the UK Government’s Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). An additional range of Personnel Security Controls referred to as National Security Vetting (NSV) may apply, this could include meeting the eligibility requirements for The Security Check (SC) or Developed Vetting (DV).
Why join us
At Leonardo, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive.
- Time to Recharge: Enjoy generous leave with the opportunity to accrue up to 12 additional flexi-days each year.
- Secure your Future: Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution.
- Your Wellbeing Matters: Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity.
- Rewarding Performance: All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme.
- Never Stop Learning: Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning.
- Refer a friend: Receive a financial reward through our referral programme.
- Tailored Perks: Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more.
- Flexible working: Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part-time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role.
For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Leonardo is a global leader in Aerospace, Defence, and Security. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. Our employees are not just part of a team—they are key contributors to shaping innovation, advancing technology, and enhancing global safety.
At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. We believe that a diverse workforce sparks creativity, drives innovation, and leads to better outcomes for our people and our customers. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the recruitment process, just let us know.
Be part of something bigger - apply now!
Primary Location: GB - Luton - Cap. Green 300
Additional Locations: GB - Basildon, GB - Edinburgh, GB - Southampton
Contract Type: Permanent
Hybrid Working: Hybrid
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Project Accountant in Luton
✨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 Leonardo. 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 Assistant Project Accountant in Luton
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 Leonardo.
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 Leonardo'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 Leonardo
✨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 Leonardo.
✨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 Leonardo 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 Leonardo 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.
