At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage financial activities, oversee month-end accounts, and support the finance team.
- Company: Astex Pharmaceuticals, a leader in innovative drug discovery.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent training, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with great transport links and onsite sports facilities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Qualifications: Accountancy qualification and experience in a similar role required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
I am delighted to be partnering with Astex Pharmaceuticals, a world leader in innovative drug discovery and development, as they look to recruit a qualified Senior Accountant to join the team in Cambridge. This is a diverse role within a very busy department, assisting the Head of Finance with the overseeing of all financial activities of the organisation, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the financial information.
This is a hands-on role with potential for development and progression in time, it requires a dedicated, enthusiastic individual who understands the importance of deadlines and who will be able to engage with the team and all areas of the business in a professional manner. You will have direct report responsibility for Finance Assistant and Purchase Ledger Controller, performing appraisals, training and support.
Key responsibilities:- Responsible for month end accounts up to TB level in GBP.
- Hands on journal prep/approval when required.
- Prepare/review general accruals and prepayments.
- Balance sheet accounts reconciliations where required ensuring all control accounts reconcile with sub ledgers.
- Prepare monthly recharge invoice calculation for Japanese Parent Company.
- Assist with Monthly/quarterly discussions with departmental managers in respect to costs.
- Prepare, post and reconcile all payroll journals.
- Prepare and calculate IFRS16 workings.
- Assist with multi-currency reporting, budgets and forecasts.
- Control of detailed month-end process with all necessary reconciliations and check lists.
- Assist with year-end statutory reporting and liaise with Auditors as and when required.
- Responsibility for fixed asset ledger, including the following aspects.
- Manage the banking and payment process.
- Review and control of company credit cards.
- Maintain cashflow forecasting model monthly.
- Oversee the PL process, ensuring all aspects are done, including hands-on where required.
- Multi-currency BACS runs twice monthly.
- Electronic bank reconciliations in all 3 main currencies.
- Raise sales invoices with calculation in sterling, euros and dollars on Access.
- Review/prepare monthly VAT reclaim returns preparation.
- Assist with Corporation tax preparation and associated adjustments.
- Accountancy qualification (ACCA, ACA, CIMA or equivalent) with proven experience within a similar role.
- Strong IT skills.
- Interest in personal growth and learning more about the business.
This is a hands-on role, and you will be expected to understand how all aspects of the financial system works including PL and SL. Astex offer excellent training and career development opportunities as well as a highly competitive salary and benefits package. Astex embrace diversity and equality of opportunity. They are committed to building an inclusive and diverse company representing all backgrounds, harnessing industry-leading scientific innovation, and behaviours. Astex is situated 2.5 miles from Cambridge City centre on the Cambridge Science Park. The Park has onsite sports facilities and excellent transport links to London.
Senior Accountant in Cambridge employer: Pure Resourcing Solutions
Astex Pharmaceuticals is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Cambridge's Science Park. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and a diverse, inclusive culture, Astex fosters personal growth and professional advancement. The company's focus on innovative drug discovery ensures that employees are part of meaningful work that contributes to significant scientific advancements.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Accountant in Cambridge
✨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 Pure Resourcing Solutions. 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 Accountant in Cambridge
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 Pure Resourcing Solutions.
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 Pure Resourcing Solutions'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 Pure Resourcing Solutions
✨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 Pure Resourcing Solutions.
✨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 Pure Resourcing Solutions 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 Pure Resourcing Solutions 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.
