At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive business performance through cash flow and working capital optimisation.
- Company: Join Thales, a global tech leader with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, performance bonuses, and 28 days annual leave.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by turning complex data into meaningful insights.
- Qualifications: Qualified or part-qualified accountant with strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: Crawley (hybrid working - 3 days a week in the office) | Thales UK Corporate Finance
Make a Real Impact on Business Performance
Join Thales UK and play a key role in driving business performance through cash flow and working capital optimisation. Working within our UK Corporate Finance team and partnering with senior stakeholders across Finance, Operations and Commercial functions, you will provide insightful analysis, reporting and forecasting across areas including receivables, payables, inventory and capital expenditure. Using data to identify risks, trends and opportunities, you'll help shape strategic decisions that improve cash performance and support business growth.
This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified or part-qualified accountant, or someone qualified by experience, with strong analytical skills and a passion for turning complex data into meaningful business insights. In return, you'll join a global organisation that offers outstanding career development opportunities, flexible working and a culture built on innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.
What You'll Be Doing
- Analyse key working capital metrics including receivables, payables, inventory, customer advances and capital expenditure.
- Develop insightful reports, dashboards and forecasts to support business decision-making.
- Partner with Finance, Operations and Commercial teams to improve cash performance.
- Prepare monthly cash flow and working capital reporting for senior leadership.
- Identify trends, risks and opportunities, turning complex data into clear recommendations.
- Drive continuous improvement, including opportunities to leverage AI and automation in cash analysis.
What We're Looking For
- Qualified or part-qualified accountant, or qualified by experience.
- Experience in cash flow forecasting, working capital analysis or operational finance.
- Strong Excel and data analysis skills, with exposure to ERP or BI tools.
- A collaborative mindset and the ability to build effective relationships with a range of stakeholders.
- Ability to communicate financial insights clearly to a variety of stakeholders.
- Analytical mindset and problem-solving approach, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, ability to identify discrepancies in complex financial data and propose corrective actions.
- A proactive, analytical and collaborative approach.
Benefits:
- Performance-related bonus
- Half day every Friday, usually finishing around 13:00
- 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) with opportunity to buy up to 40 hours/year (pro rata)
- 24 hours volunteering paid for
- Private healthcare
- Pension scheme
- Life cover
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app
- Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
- Gym membership discounts
Security Clearance Requirement:
Due to the nature of the work that we do at Thales, many of our roles are subject to security restrictions. This role requires Security Clearance (SC). It would be advantageous if currently held, however, if not currently held, it is a requirement that the successful applicant undergo, achieve, and maintain SC Clearance prior to commencing employment. To be eligible for full SC, you generally need to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. In some circumstances, a minimum of 3 years’ residence in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, with additional overseas checks.
Thales is an equal opportunities employer and diversity and inclusion are integral to the success of Thales.
Cash & Operating Capital Business Analyst in Crawley employer: Thales
Thales is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Crawley where innovation meets social responsibility. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to market-leading training and mentorship from industry experts, alongside competitive benefits such as private healthcare, a robust pension plan, and opportunities for career advancement within a diverse global organisation. Join us to contribute to cutting-edge projects in defence and aerospace while enjoying a supportive culture that values your growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cash & Operating Capital Business Analyst in Crawley
✨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 Thales. 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 Cash & Operating Capital Business Analyst in Crawley
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 Thales.
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 Thales'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 Thales
✨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 Thales.
✨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 Thales 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 Thales 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.
