At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver high-quality financial reporting and support strategic finance projects.
- Company: Join Synthomer, a leading supplier of innovative polymers with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, global bonus scheme, flexible working, and extensive learning opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative finance team environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Transition from practice to industry in a high-visibility role with senior leadership exposure.
- Qualifications: ACA/CA qualified with strong IFRS knowledge and analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Synthomer is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection. Headquartered in London, UK, Synthomer is publicly listed since 1971 and employs approximately 3,900 staff across five innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites worldwide. Around 20% of sales volumes come from new and patent‑protected products. The company holds the London Stock Exchange Green Economy Mark, recognising its contribution to a sustainable, low‑carbon economy.
We are seeking a recent Big4‑qualified ACA (or equivalent) professional to join our Group Reporting team. In this role you will be key to delivering high‑quality financial reporting to the Board, including the preparation of monthly management accounts, interim results, and annual financial statements, and will also contribute to a range of finance projects and strategic initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the preparation of annual and half‑year statutory reporting, including liaison with external auditors.
- Assist in the delivery of monthly Group management reporting, including analysis of Head Office costs.
- Conduct quarterly internal control reviews and reporting.
- Collaborate with divisional and shared service finance teams to ensure compliance with Group accounting policies (IFRS).
- Provide insightful analysis and support to senior finance stakeholders.
- Prepare technical accounting papers and guidance for complex accounting matters.
- Contribute to ad‑hoc projects, including acquisitions, disposals, forecasting, budgeting, and wider finance initiatives.
Skills & Experience
- ACA/CA (or equivalent) qualified, ideally with 1–2 years’ post‑qualified experience.
- Strong grounding in IFRS and Group reporting, ideally within a multi‑currency, international environment.
- Background in Big4 audit highly desirable.
- Advanced analytical and Excel skills with strong technical accounting awareness.
- Excellent communication skills and confidence to engage senior stakeholders.
- Proactive, self‑motivated and keen to develop within a fast‑paced Group environment.
- Experience within manufacturing or chemicals advantageous but not essential.
Key Relationships
- CFO
- VP Group Finance
- Senior Group Reporting Manager
- Group Tax
- Group Internal Audit
- Divisional Finance Leaders
Location
Global Head Office, London (Hybrid – minimum 4 days onsite).
Why Join Us
- Excellent opportunity to transition from practice into industry.
- High‑visibility role with significant exposure to senior leadership.
- Involvement in strategic projects and business‑critical initiatives.
- Collaborative and high‑performing finance team environment.
Benefits
- Competitive, market‑aligned compensation.
- Discretionary global bonus scheme.
- Discretionary Long‑Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) for senior positions.
- Company car or allowance – varies by region and role.
- Healthcare – tailored to regional locations.
- Parental leave and family support (maternity, paternity, adoption) aligned with regional policies.
- Working options – flexibility where it matters.
- Learning & development opportunities – training, online platforms, buddy/mentorship programmes, Internal Synthomer University with L&D offers.
- Wellbeing support – employee assistance programme, mental health resources, wellbeing initiatives.
- Retirement / pension contributions – plans vary by country.
- Culture of inclusion – where everyone can thrive.
- Performance culture, global reward & recognition programmes.
Group Accountant in London employer: Synthomer Plc
At Synthomer, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment in our Global Head Office in London. Our Group Accountant role provides a unique opportunity to engage with senior leadership while contributing to strategic projects that drive our business forward. With a strong focus on employee growth, competitive benefits, and a culture of inclusion, we empower our team members to thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Accountant in London
✨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.
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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.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Synthomer Plc. 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 Group Accountant in London
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 Synthomer Plc.
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 Synthomer Plc'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 Synthomer Plc
✨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 Synthomer Plc.
✨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 Synthomer Plc 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 Synthomer Plc 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.
