Group Financial Accounting - Assistant Manager

Unilever's Group Chief Accountants Department (GCAD) is seeking a talented and driven Group Financial Accounting - Assistant Manager to join their esteemed team. This is a pivotal role within Unilever's Controllers department, offering a unique opportunity to shape and contribute to the company's external financial reporting and global financial control framework.

GCAD plays a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of Unilever's financial communications to the outside world. This includes managing the relationship with external auditors, setting and implementing global accounting policies, and spearheading projects that define how Unilever measures and presents its performance. The Assistant Manager will specifically focus on the preparation of tax and pension accounts, a core component of this vital function.

Advantages for Candidates:

• High-Impact Role: Directly contribute to Unilever's external financial reporting and global financial controls, a function that is central to the company's reputation and investor confidence.
• Exposure to Global Operations: Work closely with GCAD leadership, expertise teams, group tax and pension teams, global performance management and analytics teams, and country controlling teams, providing a broad understanding of Unilever's diverse financial landscape.
• Key Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with investor relations and our external audit partner, KPMG, developing crucial communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Policy and Standards Development: Gain in-depth experience in determining and implementing Unilever's accounting policies, a critical area for a global organization.
• Continuous Improvement Focus: Participate in ongoing system and process improvements, fostering an environment of innovation and efficiency.
• Professional Development: Opportunity to prepare and deliver training, honing leadership and subject matter expertise.
• Career Advancement: This role offers a strong foundation for further growth within Unilever's finance function, particularly in areas of reporting, accounting, and financial control.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Rigorous Reporting Environment: The role demands a meticulous approach to meet stringent reporting requirements and deadlines on a quarterly basis. Candidates should thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Complex Accounting Areas: A strong understanding of IFRS, tax accounting, and pension accounting is essential. Candidates with prior exposure to these areas will find this role particularly rewarding.
• Analytical Acumen: The ability to analyze financial data, identify unusual movements, and provide clear explanations is a key requirement. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills will be highly valued.
• Stakeholder Management: Effectively liaising with internal and external stakeholders, including auditors and various global teams, is paramount. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are a must.
• Proactive and Agile Mindset: The role requires a self-starter who can operate independently, quickly resolve issues, and adapt to evolving reporting requirements.
• System Proficiency: Familiarity with SAP, BCS, and AFO systems is highly desirable, as is a solid understanding of financial reporting tools.
• Professional Qualification: Candidates with an ICAEW/ACCA or a similar professional qualification, coupled with 3-4 years of finance experience in reporting and accounting, are encouraged to apply.

This Assistant Manager position is an exceptional opportunity for finance professionals looking to make a significant impact within a world-leading organization. If you are passionate about high performance, possess agility, and are committed to personal mastery, this role offers a clear pathway for professional growth and development within Unilever's dynamic finance function.