At a Glance
- Tasks: Take charge of finance operations and enhance financial processes in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company based in Chessington with a focus on growth.
- Benefits: Earn up to £45,000, enjoy 28 days holiday, and benefit from flexible hybrid working.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career advancement and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on financial performance while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in a senior finance role with knowledge of Xero or similar systems.
This is a hands-on Financial Controller role suited to someone who enjoys building strong financial processes in a fast-paced environment. You will take ownership of day-to-day finance operations while improving financial visibility, controls, and scalability.
You will work closely with leadership to support decision-making, improve financial performance, and ensure compliance across all financial activities.
Key Responsibilities- Financial Reporting & Analysis
- Prepare weekly, monthly, and annual financial reports
- Produce monthly management accounts
- Analyse performance, trends, risks, and opportunities
- Accounting & Finance Operations
- Oversee day-to-day finance function and bookkeeping
- Maintain accurate records using Xero or similar systems
- Manage reconciliations and general ledger integrity
- Ensure timely and accurate financial transactions
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Lead annual budgeting process
- Prepare rolling forecasts and cash flow projections
- Financial Control & Compliance
- Maintain strong financial controls and governance
- Ensure compliance with UK accounting standards
- Support VAT, payroll, and corporation tax processes
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Manage and improve finance systems (e.g., Xero)
- Improve financial data integrity and processes
- Stakeholder Management
- Partner with department heads and senior leadership
- Provide commercial financial insight and guidance
- Revenue, gross profit, EBITDA, net profit
- Cash flow and working capital
- Revenue mix and performance tracking
- 3+ years’ experience in a senior finance role
- Experience running a full finance function
- Knowledge of Xero or similar systems
- Confident with P&L, balance sheet, VAT, payroll, and tax
- £40,000 – £45,000 salary
- 28 days holiday (Inclusive of BH)
- Pension scheme
- Flexible hybrid working (3 days office / 2 days remote post-probation)
Senior Finance Assistant in Chessington employer: Optima Recruitment
Join a dynamic team in Chessington as a Senior Finance Assistant, where you will thrive in a supportive work culture that values professional growth and development. With competitive salaries, flexible hybrid working arrangements, and comprehensive study support, we empower our employees to excel in their careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Experience the satisfaction of contributing to meaningful financial processes in a fast-paced environment, all while enjoying generous holiday allowances and a robust pension scheme.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Finance Assistant in Chessington
✨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 Optima Recruitment. 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 Senior Finance Assistant in Chessington
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 Optima Recruitment.
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 Optima Recruitment'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 Optima Recruitment
✨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 Optima Recruitment.
✨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 Optima Recruitment 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 Optima Recruitment 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.
