Financial Reporting Accountant - 12 month fixed term contract

Working hours: This role is available on a part-time, job-share or full-time basis.

Location: Swindon (we offer hybrid working so some office preference will be required).

An excellent opportunity has arisen to join the UK Life Reporting team as a Financial Accountant, with the chance to lead a small, dedicated team. You will be responsible for the delivery of the annual statutory reports and financial statements for Zurich Assurance Ltd and its subsidiaries. As a main point of contact for the annual external audit, you’ll collaborate closely with senior colleagues and members of the audit team to ensure smooth and successful delivery. In this role, you will guide your team to achieve departmental goals and maintain the high standards our customers expect. We are looking for an enthusiastic leader who can motivate others, drive operational improvements, and work both independently and collaboratively, whilst delivering on our commitment to customers.

What will you be doing?

• Lead the delivery of the annual statutory accounts and reports on an IFRS basis, and lead statutory audit cycles.
• Produce high quality financial reports and present to senior colleagues (e.g., through Board meetings).
• Support year end statutory audit activities including ensuring all new standards are assessed at entity level with associated papers prepared and agreed with local auditors (and Group policy teams where appropriate) ahead of the year end reporting cycle.
• Manage stakeholder relationships with local auditors, Finance management team and wider Finance department.
• Continue to challenge and improve our processes.
• Provide broader team support as required.

What are we looking for?

• Have knowledge of financial services legislation, regulation and accounting policies.
• Excellent time and task management skills with strong communication skills – both verbal and written.
• A can-do attitude with strong problem-solving skills, and a high level of agility.
• Experience in building and managing relationships with senior stakeholders.
• Financial services experience would be beneficial but not essential.

What will you get in return?

• Your benefits include: 12% defined non-contributory pension scheme.
• Annual company bonus.
• Income Protection.
• Life cover – four times your salary.
• Time away: 28 days holiday a year plus bank holidays. You can also request to swap UK bank holidays for days off that have cultural or religious significance. The option to buy up to an additional 20 days or sell some of your holiday. Three days paid volunteering. Up to 16 weeks' full pay for maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Your health is important to us: Access to private medical insurance. Virtual GP appointments. Discounted gym membership. Free flu jab. Access to a wealth of support from our wellbeing partners.