At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial operations and support a dynamic trading team in a global commodities firm.
- Company: Join a leading City Commodities trading firm known for its excellence.
- Benefits: Fully funded study package for professional qualifications and competitive salary.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
- Why this job: Gain invaluable experience in finance while working in a fast-paced trading environment.
- Qualifications: Part-qualified in accountancy with 4 years of finance experience in trading or banking.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Our client, a prolific, gold standard City Commodities and global trading firm is looking for a commercially driven part-qualified Finance Officer from a banking or financial services background with experience of global operational accounting processes to include general management of Accounts Payable & Receivable and statutory reporting.
Supporting a busy trading team, you will already have completed studies towards an accountancy qualification AAT, ACCA, CIMA along with 3-4 years experience in a financial markets organisation or trading/middle office setting with the ability and confidence to thrive in this dynamic 'bull and bear' environment. This role will provide an amazing stepping stone to complete your professional qualifications with a fully funded study package.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing and preparing ledgers for business operations with use of SAP Business ByDesign and other accounting systems
- Review and manage company expenditures and employee expense claims in line with company policy
- Prepare and submit statutory returns and statistical reports
- Reporting and month/year-end closing activities
- Manage accounts payable tasks including invoice processing, system uploading, and payment runs
- Ensure invoices are paid on time and payment runs are completed accurately
- Maintain and update accrual and prepayment schedules
- Cost analysis and respond to queries
- Act as the banking and system liaison, helping to manage day‑to‑day matters with external partners
- Take ownership of assigned tasks and work proactively to resolve issues
- Provide general assistance across the Finance team as needed
What you will offer
- Graduate calibre
- Ideally working towards a recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. AAT, ACCA, CIMA)
- Minimum 4 years’ Finance and accounts experience from a Commodities/Banking/Financial services institution
- Knowledge of trading operations/reporting processes.
- Familiarity with SAP Business ByDesign, SAP Concur or similar ERP systems (preferred)
- Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other Office tools
- Good communication skills and a collaborative working style
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
Industries: Financial Services, Securities and Commodity Exchanges, and Banking
Finance Officer - Trading/Middle-Office Operations employer: May & Stephens
Join a prestigious City Commodities trading firm that not only values your expertise but also invests in your future. With a vibrant work culture that thrives on collaboration and innovation, you'll benefit from a fully funded study package to support your professional qualifications while working alongside a dynamic trading team. This role offers exceptional growth opportunities in a fast-paced environment, making it an ideal place for ambitious finance professionals looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Officer - Trading/Middle-Office Operations
✨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 May & Stephens. 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 Officer - Trading/Middle-Office Operations
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 May & Stephens.
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 May & Stephens'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 May & Stephens
✨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 May & Stephens.
✨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 May & Stephens 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 May & Stephens 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.
