Role Purpose:

The Trainee Accountant plays a critical role in supporting the Finance function by ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting, compliance, and analysis. This position is designed to provide comprehensive exposure to core accounting processes, including reconciliations, month-end close, and audit preparation, while contributing to the overall financial health and operational efficiency of the business. By delivering reliable data and insights, the role enables informed decision-making at senior levels and supports strategic initiatives across the organisation. The successful candidate will actively participate in process improvements, leveraging technology and best practices to enhance accuracy and efficiency. This role is ideal for individuals seeking to build a strong foundation in accounting and progress toward professional qualification in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Role Responsibilities:

Financial Operations & Reporting

Perform detailed reconciliations of multi-currency bank accounts, ensuring accuracy and compliance with internal controls.
Complete monthly and quarterly balance sheet reconciliations, investigating and resolving discrepancies promptly.
Prepare, post, and reconcile prepayment journals as part of the month-end close process, ensuring alignment with financial policies.
Generate accruals for management accounts using the Concur Expense System, and proactively identify additional accruals to maintain accurate reporting.

Asset Management & Compliance

Maintain and update the Fixed Asset Register, ensuring consistency with the General Ledger and accurate
depreciation calculations across divisions.
Support external audit activities by preparing documentation, responding to queries, and collaborating with auditors to ensure timely completion.

Business Support & Analysis

Provide financial insights and support to leadership teams, enabling effective budgeting and cost control.
Conduct overhead analysis and prepare monthly reports for department heads, including detailed travel and expense (T&E) spend reviews.
Assist in identifying trends, variances, and opportunities for cost optimisation through data-driven analysis.

Continuous Improvement & Projects

Contribute to ad hoc projects aimed at improving financial processes, systems, and reporting capabilities.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce manual workload.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment of financial practices with business objectives.

This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to change and amendment.

Qualifications, Skills & Experience

Essential (Non-negotiable)

Part-qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) actively pursuing completion of exams.
Strong understanding of core accounting principles, including reconciliations, accruals, and prepayments.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced formulas, pivot tables, data analysis) and PowerPoint for reporting and presentations.
Exposure to financial operations in a corporate environment, ideally within a high-growth or fast-paced setting.
Ability to work to strict deadlines and manage multiple priorities effectively.
Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong organisational and time management skills.
Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present financial information clearly.
Collaborative mindset with the ability to build relationships across departments.

Desirable (Value Adding)

Previous experience in FMCG or similar high-volume, fast-moving sectors.
Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP S4 Hana and expense management tools like Concur.
Demonstrated ability to identify inefficiencies and implement process enhancements.
Strong problem-solving ability and aptitude for interpreting complex data sets.
Exposure to audit processes and compliance requirements.
Ability to adapt to evolving business needs and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Qualifications & Certifications:

Degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline (or equivalent practical experience).
ACA, ACCA, or CIMA (part-qualified with commitment to completion).

WaterWipes Core Competencies for Trainee Accountant

Accountability: Takes ownership of tasks and delivers accurate work on time.
Decision Making: Makes timely, well-informed decisions using available data.
Driving for Results: Completes goals efficiently and maintains high standards under pressure.
Integrity: Acts honestly and upholds WaterWipes values in all financial dealings.
Teamwork: Collaborates effectively with colleagues and supports shared objectives.

Functional Competencies

Financial Reporting & Analysis: Prepares accurate reconciliations, journals, and reports.
ERP Systems Knowledge: Understands and uses SAP S4 Hana and Concur effectively.
Advanced Excel Skills: Applies formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis for reporting.
Attention to Detail: Maintains precision in all financial processes.
Time Management: Prioritises tasks to meet strict deadlines.
Audit Support: Provides accurate documentation and assistance during audits.

Why work for us?
‘The WaterWipes Way’ is underpinned by our Values of: Bravery, Excellence & Respect
We look for individuals who will drive acceptable actions and behaviours that will reflect our vision and values.

WaterWipes offers all the benefits of an established global brand, along with the exciting possibilities of an organisation that lives and breathes change.

There are so many reasons to join us on our ambitious journey to becoming an iconic global brand. Check out our careers page to find out more !

Trainee Management Accountant

Job Description