At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us as a Financial Accountant, managing financial reporting and supporting our Insurance Finance teams.
- Company: The AA is the UK's leading motoring organisation, evolving beyond roadside assistance to offer diverse services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, free breakdown membership, discounts, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting journey in finance, contributing to a well-respected company with a strong culture.
- Qualifications: Part-Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA), strong Excel skills, and experience with financial systems required.
- Other info: We value diversity and encourage applications from all backgrounds to foster an inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Basingstoke (hybrid working 3 office days per week)
Employment Type: Permanent – Full-time
Think the AA is just about roadside assistance? Think again. For over a century, we’ve been evolving and adapting. Today, as the nation’s leading motoring organisation, we offer a wide range of products and services to millions of customers. From roadside assistance to home and motor insurance, and the latest driving technologies, we have it all. As we continue to expand, diversify, and modernise, joining us as a Financial Accountant means you’ll play a crucial role in our success and be part of this exciting motoring journey.
This is the job: Step into a pivotal role as a Financial Accountant at the AA Group, where you’ll lead the charge in delivering exceptional financial and accounting services. Collaborate with the Financial Controller to manage accounting, financial reporting, and technical support within our Insurance Finance teams.
What will I be doing?
- Supporting the provision of information to enable the completion of month end for the Insurance Division, including ensuring accuracy and integrity of month end numbers and KPIs, compliance with all accounting requirements and reporting process and achieving all deadlines for both internal and external reporting.
- Supporting the internal financial control framework requirements for the Insurance division.
- Work closely with the commercial Insurance finance teams & the business to gain a sound understanding of the business and ensure reporting of performance can therefore be challenged, insightful and add value.
- Preparing and reviewing balance sheet reconciliations, ensuring that any differences/issues are identified, reported and resolved.
- Supporting the forecast, budget and five-year plan submissions for the business and updating the planning and consolidation system.
- Challenge, understand, document and where possible improve all financial processes undertaken within the financial control/ reporting team.
- Liaising with external professional advisors and supporting interim and year-end audit work.
What do I need?
- Part-Qualified Accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or similar).
- Strong technical accounting knowledge.
- Advanced Microsoft Office skills – particularly Excel.
- Highly numerate with good communication skills, both verbal and written with strong report writing skills.
- Experience of working with systems (e.g. SAP, BPC, Trintech) along with good IT skills.
Additional information: Benefits
We’re always looking to recognise and reward our employees for the work they do. As a valued member of The AA team, you’ll have access to a range of benefits including:
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays + holiday buying scheme.
- Worksave pension scheme with up to 7% employer contribution.
- Free AA breakdown membership from Day 1 plus 50% discount for family and friends.
- Discounts on AA products including car and home insurance.
- Employee discount scheme that gives you access to a car salary sacrifice scheme plus great discounts on healthcare, shopping, holidays and more.
- Company funded life assurance.
- Diverse learning and development opportunities to support you to progress in your career.
- Dedicated Employee Assistance Programme and a 24/7 remote GP service for you and your family.
- Plus, so much more!
We’re an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from everyone. The AA values diversity and the difference this brings to our culture and our customers. We actively seek people from diverse backgrounds to join us and become part of an inclusive company where you can be yourself, be empowered to be your best and feel like you truly belong.
Financial Accountant employer: The AA
Contact Detail:
The AA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the AA's core values and recent developments in their services. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the company during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the AA, especially those in finance roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your technical accounting skills, particularly in areas relevant to insurance finance. Being able to discuss specific accounting practices or software like SAP or BPC can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics at the AA. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Financial Accountant role. Emphasise your technical accounting knowledge, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and any experience with systems like SAP or BPC.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for the role and the company. Mention specific aspects of The AA that attract you, such as their commitment to diversity and employee development, and explain how your background makes you a great fit.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as being a part-qualified accountant (ACA/ACCA/CIMA or similar). Include any additional certifications or training that may enhance your application.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects attention to detail, which is crucial for a Financial Accountant.
How to prepare for a job interview at The AA
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Accountant, you'll be expected to have a strong grasp of financial data. Brush up on key accounting principles and be prepared to discuss how you've applied them in previous roles. Familiarise yourself with common KPIs relevant to the insurance sector.
✨Excel Skills are Key
Since advanced Microsoft Excel skills are crucial for this role, make sure you can demonstrate your proficiency. Be ready to discuss specific functions or tools you've used in Excel to analyse financial data or create reports.
✨Understand the Business
The AA is not just about roadside assistance; they offer a variety of services. Research the company’s products and services, especially in the insurance division, so you can speak knowledgeably about how your role as a Financial Accountant will contribute to their success.
✨Prepare for Process Improvement Questions
Expect questions about how you've challenged and improved financial processes in past roles. Think of specific examples where you identified inefficiencies and implemented changes that added value to the organisation.