At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Finance team to support budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Company: The AA is a trusted UK brand offering diverse services beyond roadside assistance.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, performance bonuses, and discounts on insurance and healthcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values diversity and offers growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills, Excel proficiency, and a desire to study towards CIMA.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with travel to Tunbridge Wells every two months.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Company description
Location: Basingstoke hybrid 3 times per week in the office
Employment Type: permanent/ full time
Salary: up to £45,000 depending on experience
Benefits: up to 10% annual performance related bonus
Hours: Monday to Friday 36.25 hours per week
Think the AA is just about roadside assistance? Think again!
As one of the UK\’s most trusted brands, we provide a wide range of services to millions of customers. From comprehensive Home and Motor Insurance to personalised Financial Services like Loans and Savings, and outstanding B2B, Consumer, Business Services, Driver Training, Car Care, and Service Maintenance and Repair, we\’ve got you covered. Our mission is to keep Britain moving, and we\’re looking for dedicated individuals to join our team. Ready to join us?
#LI-CL1 #LI-Hybrid
This is the job
The successful candidate will be joining AA’s Insurance Finance team, which partners with and supports the AA’s Insurer businesses.
This role reports directly to the Senior Finance Business Partner and involves working closely with the Insurer management teams to ensure budgets and forecasts are accurate and delivered on time. The role also includes managing costs to ensure budgets are controlled and spent effectively, as well as supporting the preparation of monthly management reports used in business performance reviews.
There will also be a requirement to travel to our Tunbridge Wells office every second month.
What will I be doing?
- Assisting the Senior Finance Business Partner in providing financial support to key departments within the Insurer businesses
- Providing strong analysis and insight through effective partnering with the Insurer management team to ensure financial performance is understood, gaps are identified, results are challenged, and value-adding analysis is delivered where needed
- Leading the development of a financial and operational reporting suite, ensuring robust management information to support sound decision-making
- Developing the business model to capture trends, draw insights, and enable accurate forecasting
- Delivering enhanced analysis and understanding of monthly performance through variance analysis against forecast, budget, and trends across revenue, costs, and the balance sheet
- Attending weekly steering meetings with department heads to help identify financial risks and opportunities
- Supporting the budgeting and forecasting process in collaboration with the Senior Finance Business Partner and operational leaders
- Assisting with capex submissions, cost-benefit calculations, and benefits tracking to ensure alignment and timely submission through project gates and committees
- Supporting the Senior Finance Business Partner on various ad hoc projects
What do I need?
- Strong analytical and numerical skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with financial systems such as SAP, Oracle, or similar
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain financial concepts to non-finance stakeholders
- High attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently
Desirable
- Experience with Microsoft Power Query and Power BI
- Knowledge of the insurance or financial services industry
- Graduate-level education
- Suitable for an ambitious individual looking to begin studying towards CIMA or an equivalent accounting qualification
Personal Characteristics
- Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to prioritise, manage, and deliver under tight or conflicting deadlines
- Naturally curious, with a desire to understand and challenge
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
Additional Information
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. We have five communities to bring together people with shared characteristics and backgrounds and drive positive change.
As part of the onboarding process, we complete several pre-employment checks including work reference, credit and criminal record checks.
We may close the vacancy sooner than the advertised date if we get a high volume of applications, please apply as soon as possible if you’re interested.
Finance Analyst - Basingstoke employer: The Automobile Association
Contact Detail:
The Automobile Association Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Analyst - Basingstoke
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the insurance and financial services industry. Understanding the key players, trends, and challenges will help you engage in meaningful conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Brush up on your analytical skills, especially in Microsoft Excel. Being proficient in data analysis and financial modelling will not only boost your confidence but also show that you're ready to tackle the responsibilities of the Finance Analyst position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of the AA, particularly those in finance roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how you've handled tight deadlines and conflicting priorities in the past. The ability to adapt and manage time effectively is crucial for this role, so having specific examples ready will make a strong impression.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Analyst - Basingstoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that align with the Finance Analyst role. Emphasise your analytical abilities, proficiency in Excel, and any experience with financial systems like SAP or Oracle.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention specific aspects of the job description that excite you and how your background makes you a great fit for the team.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your strong analytical and numerical skills, as well as your ability to communicate financial concepts to non-finance stakeholders. Use examples from past experiences to illustrate these skills.
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 Finance Analyst position.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Automobile Association
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Finance Analyst, strong analytical skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used data analysis to drive decision-making in previous roles. Highlight your experience with tools like Excel, SAP, or Oracle.
✨Understand the Insurance Industry
Familiarise yourself with the insurance and financial services sector. Research current trends and challenges within the industry, as this knowledge will demonstrate your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle financial risks. Prepare scenarios where you've successfully identified gaps in financial performance or managed budgets effectively, showcasing your proactive approach.
✨Communicate Clearly with Non-Finance Stakeholders
Since the role involves explaining financial concepts to non-financial colleagues, practice articulating complex ideas in simple terms. This skill is essential for effective collaboration and will set you apart from other candidates.