At a Glance
- Tasks: Support financial reporting and gain hands-on experience in accounting processes.
- Company: Join a leading international manufacturing and packaging organisation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, study support, hybrid working, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Excellent career progression opportunities within a high-performing finance team.
- Why this job: Kickstart your finance career with structured development and real impact on business decisions.
- Qualifications: Degree in Accounting or Finance, strong analytical skills, and a proactive attitude.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
An excellent opportunity for a Finance or Accounting graduate, or an individual currently studying AAT, to join a leading international business and gain hands-on exposure to the full accounting lifecycle. Supporting reporting, analysis, budgeting and operational finance activities, you'll benefit from professional study support, structured development and clear career progression within a high-performing finance team.
Our client is a leading international manufacturing and packaging organisation with operations across the UK and Europe. Operating in a fast-paced, commercially focused environment, the business plays a key role in supporting some of the world's most recognisable brands through innovative and sustainable solutions. With a strong commitment to employee development, the business offers structured career pathways, professional study support and excellent opportunities for progression. Their finance function is highly regarded within the organisation, providing employees with exposure to operational finance, commercial decision-making and business partnering from the outset.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a large, successful organisation where you'll gain hands-on experience across the full accounting cycle while building the skills and qualifications needed for a long-term career in finance.
As a Graduate Assistant Accountant, you'll support the delivery of financial reporting and accounting services across multiple business areas, gaining valuable exposure to financial processes from end to end. Your responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with the preparation of monthly management accounts and variance analysis
- Supporting the production of Profit Loss statements and Balance Sheets
- Contributing to Group and divisional reporting requirements
- Delivering routine and ad-hoc financial analysis to support operational decision-making
- Supporting budgeting, annual planning and forecasting activities
- Processing journals and maintaining accurate financial records
- Reconciling general ledger accounts and ensuring financial controls are maintained
- Working closely with operational teams, Accounts Payable, Credit Control and Finance Business Partners
- Developing a broad understanding of how finance supports a complex, multi-site business
We're looking for someone with strong analytical skills, a willingness to learn and the ambition to build a long-term career in finance. You'll ideally have:
- A degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics or a related discipline
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills
- Excellent attention to detail and organisational abilities
- A proactive and inquisitive approach to problem-solving
- Strong communication skills and the confidence to work with stakeholders across the business
- The ability to manage competing priorities and work effectively within a team
- Previous accounting, finance or reporting experience would be advantageous but is not essential
- Experience using SAP or a similar ERP system would also be beneficial
Job Offer:
- Competitive salary
- Annual discretionary bonus
- Full study support towards a professional accounting qualification (ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
- Structured training and career development programme
- Exposure to operational and commercial finance
- Hybrid working model
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Pension scheme
- Life assurance and income protection
- Employee benefits platform with retail and leisure discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Digital GP services and health assessments
- Cycle to Work scheme
Graduate Assistant Accountant employer: Michael Page Finance
This thriving technology company in Yorkshire is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive culture that prioritises employee development and innovation. With opportunities for professional growth and the potential for the Interim Financial Accountant role to transition into a permanent position, employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying the benefits of remote working.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Assistant Accountant
✨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 Michael Page Finance. 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 Graduate Assistant Accountant
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 Michael Page Finance.
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 Michael Page Finance'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 Michael Page Finance
✨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 Michael Page Finance.
✨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 Michael Page Finance 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 Michael Page Finance 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.
