Assistant Finance Business Analyst Review

I work in the central finance reporting team for UK Military Aviation. Responsible for maintaining our financial database and loading, reconciling our monthly profit and loss and balance sheet as part of month-end - taking data from source and upstreaming results to sector. I do weekly cash reporting. Also, issuing management reports to internal stakeholders (leadership team) and external (ONS, Cabinet Office)

Yes, I have learnt SQL (data manipulation language) whilst maintaining our finance database. I have developed my excel and accounting knowledge, particularly the balance sheet, building on what I had learnt from my last job. I have learnt to do cash reporting which was new for me and managing tight deadlines as there are very quick turnarounds at Babcock.

I have only recently started CIMA (chartered management accountancy course), but I have enjoyed so far understanding the real world implications of accounting and how I can apply the technical knowledge in the work environment. I chose CIMA as it's forward thinking with technology and business strategy in the modern world.

It is well structured as I have been onboarded well with my boss and HR, it did take some time to know eligibility rules regarding the apprenticeship levy, as it is not very clear. I have good support through regular training catch ups with my boss and tutors at Kaplan.

As much as I need as my employer looks to help apprentices with our director having started as an apprentice, he really emphasis the importance of having help and tracking apprentices. My boss is happy to look at areas I can fit my studies with work and having ongoing catch ups with Kaplan tutors. They are very positive and helpful.

A lot of support is given as I have access to On Demand courses from Kaplan which is very useful as I have access to lots of material, such as lectures, textbook, question books and integrated workbooks. Also, I am required to complete a training log to track my weekly progress. Any areas I am stuck on I can ask Kaplan.

I think it is highly beneficial as it will deepen my technical knowledge and understanding of accounting. I can already apply some parts to my role and look forward to going deeper into the course and be able to be involved in more senior conversations and scope to do further tasks.

Yes there are groups where we can get involved and seek change and improvement such as covid working and BAME meetings. Due to covid it isn't easy but there have been competitions like Christmas talent show. There are lunch and learn webinars where there are conversations about current topics e.g. mental health, home working. I play cricket outside of work.

Yes

It is a very inclusive, dynamic company contributing to great values of society and the UK. It is a challenging fast paced environment where there is a lot to learn and opportunities to progress. No day is the same and the support and development is fantastic for a large FTSE firm.

Be ready to show you are interested in the company and its values. Understand what has happened in the past to the division and business you are applying to. Apply all your relevant skills and knowledge you have experienced to date e.g. education and work experience, and most importantly show you are hungry for the challenge and how you can contribute towards the business.