Accountant reference: 92a03b74a1

Career Opportunity: Accountant, Renewables Team - SSE Centre of Excellence

Are you a qualified Accountant with a passion for continuous improvement and a desire to contribute to a more sustainable future? SSE, a leading energy company with a bold ambition to be at the forefront of a net-zero world, is seeking a talented individual to join their R2R Centre of Excellence team. This is a significant opportunity to leverage modern technology and drive innovation within a dynamic finance function.

The Opportunity:

This 12-month, full-time, secondment or fixed-term contract offers a compelling platform for an Accountant to make a tangible impact. Based in either Perth or Glasgow, you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of the month-end general ledger close, performing critical account reconciliations, and ensuring compliance with statutory financial reporting. A key aspect of this role involves collaborating closely with external auditors during annual statutory audits. As part of the Centre of Excellence, you'll work alongside dedicated finance professionals to champion best practices in reporting and processes across SSE Finance.

Key Responsibilities & What You'll Do:

• Month-End Excellence: Play a pivotal role in the month-end close process, including the preparation of key journals and insightful variance analysis commentary.
• Team Development: Mentor and develop finance analysts, fostering their growth and helping them achieve their full potential.
• Year-End & Statutory Compliance: Take ownership of year-end and half-year processes, including the meticulous preparation and audit of statutory accounts.
• Financial Control: Ensure adherence to Group financial control policies, with a strong focus on preparing accurate balance sheet reconciliations.
• Process Improvement: Proactively identify and implement opportunities for process enhancement to meet and exceed financial control requirements.

What You'll Bring:

• Professional Qualification: A recognised professional accounting qualification is essential, coupled with practical experience in either practice or industry.
• Technical Expertise: Up-to-date knowledge of IFRS and FRS101 accounting standards is a must.
• Audit & Reporting Skills: A proven ability to deliver high-quality financial statements and effectively liaise with auditors.
• Analytical Prowess: Solid analytical skills are required, enabling you to research, understand, and interrogate a wide range of finance issues.
• Exceptional Time Management: The ability to balance competing deadlines and deliverables across diverse stakeholders, manage expectations, and adapt to evolving business needs is crucial.
• System & Procedural Acumen: A strong understanding of core financial systems and general accounting procedures.
• Essential Soft Skills: Flexibility, professionalism, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to delivering quality work, even under pressure.

Why Consider This Role?

This is more than just an accounting position; it's an opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that is actively shaping the future of energy. SSE's commitment to a net-zero world presents exciting challenges and rewards.

• Impactful Work: Contribute to a company investing significantly in homegrown energy and a cleaner, more secure future.
• Career Growth: The Centre of Excellence environment fosters learning and development, with opportunities to work with modern technology and drive innovation.
• Competitive Remuneration: A salary range of £42,600 - £64,000, along with a performance-related bonus, demonstrates SSE's recognition of valuable talent.
• Comprehensive Benefits: SSE offers a robust package designed to support your financial wellbeing, family, and overall health. This includes:
  • Discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships.
  • Wellbeing support through a free online GP and 24/7 counselling.
  • Interest-free loans for technology and transport season tickets, and a Cycle to Work scheme.
  • Generous family entitlements, including maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
• Flexible Working: "Flexible First" options are available, acknowledging the importance of work-life balance.
• Inclusive Culture: SSE is dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

For ambitious Accountants, this role offers:

• Exposure to advanced financial reporting and control within a large, complex organisation.
• The chance to gain hands-on experience with process improvement initiatives and the implementation of new technologies.
• Mentorship opportunities to develop leadership and analytical skills.
• A solid foundation for future roles within SSE's extensive finance function or the broader energy sector.

This is a significant opportunity to advance your accounting career while contributing to a vital mission. If you are a proactive, skilled Accountant looking for a role with purpose and excellent growth potential, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.