Job Purpose
This role is based in the central reporting function at FT Finance, and works in partnership with business analysts who manage specific business lines. The postholder will ensure the accurate, timely and relevant flow of consolidated financial data to both internal management and our external stakeholders. This will include consolidating monthly results, identifying trends and emerging issues in results, and provide the ad-hoc analysis to address emerging issues.
The postholder will also own some of key controls and reconciliations, essential for the integrity and robustness of our reporting framework.
The FT is going through a period of change, and it is imperative that the successful candidate can adapt to, and drive change in the group reporting area.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the monthly reporting process by managing the submission of consolidated financial results to Pearson Central Finance and FT Group. Ensuring the integrity of data, and that key trends are explored and explained.
- To support the annual year end process, including the preparation of supporting schedules and analysis required for the Pearson plc consolidation. To prepare and manage the compilation of statutory accounts for a number of FT entities and to liaise with tax and external audit to clear any concerns.
- To analyse and review monthly results, and to provide regular analysis of business performance for reporting to the FC, CFO and CEO, highlighting key issues and problem areas as well as making appropriate recommendations for action.
- To advise colleagues in the business on technical accounting issues and accounting treatment of large and unusual transactions.
- To devise and implement improved cashflow reporting functionality across the FT, providing improved clarity on performance at departmental level.
Required Knowledge and Experience
- A qualified accountant ideally with up to 2 years PQE and experience of audit and the preparation of consolidated group accounts.
- Excellent analytical and technical financial skills, with the ability to diagnose and apply appropriate techniques to the resolution of business issues.
- Developed communication and inter-personal skills with the ability to influence and persuade through personal credibility, integrity and professionalism.
- Organisation and planning skills with the ability to deal effectively with both short term imperatives and long term planning.
- Enthusiasm, resilience, drive and commitment, with the ability to work effectively in a constantly changing and pressured environment.
- Strong excel skills are essential, experience of Hyperion and Sun Accounts is preferred.
Finance Competencies particularly relevant to the job
Influencing and Persuading - Able to present sound and well-reasoned arguments to convince others and constantly develops and expands own sources of influence. Has thought through issues and has responses to counter-arguments.
Flexibility - Adapts and works effectively with a variety of situations, individuals or groups. Is able to understand and appreciate different and opposing perspectives on an issue, to adapt an approach as the requirements of a situation change. Continuously seeks better ways of doing things and is prepared to try and implement change even in adverse circumstances.
Planning and Organising - Able to establish an efficient and appropriate course of action for self and others. Can cope with a large and demanding workload.
Decision Making - Originates action and takes responsibility for decisions made.
Communication - Able to communicate clearly by adopting a range of styles, tools and techniques adapting as relevant to individual audiences.
Pearson is committed to equality of opportunity. We are determined to create a diverse group at all levels of our company -- and we welcome all members of the community we serve to apply for openings with us.
