About Us

First Bus is one of the largest bus operators in the UK, connecting millions of passengers every year to destinations across the country. With a fleet of modern vehicles and a commitment to sustainability, First Bus is at the forefront of transforming public transport. We pride ourselves on delivering a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly service while putting our customers at the heart of everything we do.

At First Bus, we're more than just a transport provider. We're an employer of choice, offering exciting career opportunities in operations, engineering, customer service, and more. Our inclusive and supportive culture empowers employees to grow and make a real difference in the communities we serve.

If you're passionate about making travel better and joining a team that values innovation and collaboration, First Bus is the perfect place to advance your career.

Basic Purpose of Role 

The purpose of this role is to support the Management Accountant and Financial Accountant in producing accurate and timely management accounts, reports, and other financial information for a single Local Business Unit (LBU). This includes assisting in the improvement of processes and procedures to enhance the quality of financial reporting. The role involves completing Balance Sheet reconciliations, ensuring all balances are justified, and supporting the communication of financial performance to operational management teams while identifying risks and opportunities for improved financial results. Additionally, the role contributes to the delivery of the period-end close process and provides cover for core tasks of the Management Accountant and/or Financial Accountant during periods of leave. 

Accountabilities

• Support the production of management accounts, weekly cost and revenue reports and other financial information as required
• Support the analysis of the management accounts and variances to budget/forecast and prior year.
• Assist with the preparation of balance sheet reconciliations for each period
• Calculation of accruals and prepayments; working with the Data & Analytics team to understand and process data to support calculations and reconciliations
• Maintain spreadsheet models in line with standardized processes and local terms.
• Support delivery of a robust internal control environment ensuring compliance with all internal procedures and reporting standards.
• Ensure that journals are posted within the required deadlines, are accurate and appropriately approved.
• Support Management and Financial Accountants in maintaining the accuracy of financial and non-financial records
• Support the delivery of improved processes and ways of working to increase the efficiency of the function

Company Responsibilities

• To undertake any additional duties at the request of your line manager, which is deemed to be within your competency.
• To adhere to all FirstGroup policies and procedures
• To undertake any training and development activities at the request of your line manager.
• To comply with all Group Injury Prevention policies and support new initiatives.

Rewards & Benefits

• Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
• We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
• Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
• Cycle to work scheme
• 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
• Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
• Enhanced maternity / paternity pay
• Flexible working

We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.

Please apply now. We look forward to receiving your application.

Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.

Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.