At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage project finances, monitor budgets, and support decision-making for impactful projects.
- Company: Join Thales, a global tech leader shaping the future with innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy a performance bonus, flexible hours, generous leave, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and collaboration with international teams.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive environment while growing your expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Project Accountant and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Location: Crawley, United Kingdom
Thales is a global technology leader with more than 83,000 employees on five continents. With over 7,500 people in the UK, operating across defence, space, aerospace, and digital security, we help build a future we can all trust.
Thales ISR UK is seeking an experienced Project Accountant to support our expanding portfolio—offering real opportunity to shape delivery, performance, and financial integrity across high‑profile programmes.
You’ll work closely with a UK‑based team in Crawley, and our Business Line colleagues in France, partnering with Project Managers, Controllers, Commercial teams, Engineering, Production, and Finance leadership. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on problem‑solving, stakeholder engagement and driving projects toward their business goals.
What You’ll Do
- Project financial control — monitor spend, track delivery, and ensure accurate reporting.
- Budget ownership — understand, analyse, and communicate project budgets, variances, risks, and opportunities.
- Stakeholder partnership — support Project Managers with ETC/EAC, schedule impacts, and financial decision‑making.
- Risk & opportunity management — identify, quantify, and report risks and opportunities across the portfolio.
- ERP & reporting accuracy — ensure correct project setup, cost capture, cashflow forecasting, and monthly PMR preparation.
- Bid support — contribute to new bids with robust financial insight and adherence to Chorus processes.
- Continuous improvement — support tool development, mentor colleagues, and uphold Thales values and ethics.
What You Bring
- Extensive experience as a Project Accountant in a complex, multi‑stakeholder environment.
- Confidence to challenge, influence, and guide project teams.
- A proactive, analytical mindset with the ability to solve problems and anticipate risks.
- Commitment to accuracy, integrity, and collaborative working across UK and French teams.
Why Join Thales ISR UK?
You’ll be part of a business delivering critical capability, with the chance to grow your expertise in a portfolio that’s expanding fast. Expect a supportive environment, meaningful responsibility, and the opportunity to make a visible impact.
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.
We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued for who they are and the unique strengths they bring.
Project Accountant in Crawley employer: Thales
Thales ISR UK is an exceptional employer located in Crawley, offering a dynamic work environment where collaboration and growth are at the forefront. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, we provide generous benefits such as a performance-related bonus, flexible working hours, and extensive annual leave, alongside opportunities for professional development within a diverse and inclusive culture. Join us to make a meaningful impact in a company that values integrity and innovation while supporting the security of our nation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Accountant 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 Project Accountant 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.
