Cost Accountant

Finance Analyst (may suit a newly qualified accountant, with a few years experience in industry)

London - Hybrid (2-3 days in office)

To ensure that the Group’s expenses are accounted for accurately, reported to key stakeholders to support decision making and that Forecasts and Plans are robust. To ensure effective cost management processes and controls are maintained and improved upon where required.

The roleholder will achieve this by participating in the expenses month end cycle, posting journals into the general ledger that are supported by robust financial data, completing reconciliations and investigations into general ledger balances. The roleholder is required to prepare regular and adhoc reports for management and undertake analysis of expense data as required and participate in forecasting and planning cycles.

Responsibilities

• Month end: posting expense accruals, prepayments and other adjustments into the general ledger, in line with relevant accounting standards and adhering to Group timetables.
• Produce and contribute to regular MI and reporting: ensure that MI answers the ‘so what’ and that variances are clearly explained.
• Ad hoc analysis: Conduct independent deep dive/reviews of Functional cost base to provide insight to business areas
• Forecasting: Assist with maintaining regularly updated, rolling forecasts and deliver key inputs into the annual 5 year Plan process including projections of the staff cost base, key strategic development costs and 3rd party costs.

Qualifications

• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Experience of cost accounting in a multi divisional and multi departmental organisation.
• Experience of budgeting, forecasting and management accounting best practice.
• Experience of working in an Insurance or other Financial Services environment is preferred
• Experience of a Life Insurance environment would be advantageous.
• Working knowledge of IFRS 17 accounting principles would be advantageous
• Knowledge of Oracle would be an advantage but not essential.