We are currently seeking an experienced Divisional & PLC Accountant to join our Finance team on an 8-month fixed term contract. This hybrid role will be based out of our Aberdeen office, offering a blend of remote and in-office working.

Welcome to First Bus

Hello. First Bus is one of the country's largest bus operators – taking 1.6 million customers to their destinations every day. We're a forward-looking business at the forefront of bus technology, leading the way on contactless payments, mobile Apps and real time information. Our investment in state-of-the-art, new buses is just one part of our transition to a low-carbon future. It's an exciting time to be here.

About the role

This role plays a key part in delivering: continuous improvement; accurate and timely accounting within existing controls and policies; and helping implement new ways of working. It is a cross-divisional role, primarily focussing on fixed assets within the Bus division, and PLC and related Group companies within Group, plus technical accounting across the two. There are several business-as-usual tasks, as well as active involvement in new projects to help drive the Group forwards.

Key responsibilities include: 

• Review of fixed asset accounting and lease accounting across the Bus division, including but not limited to: WIP/AUC accounts and provisions, and lease accounting under both FRS 102 and IFRS, and capital grants.
• Responsibility for complete fixed asset and lease cycle in the Bus division, including but not limited to: periodic reporting, budgeting/forecasting (including cashflow impacts), and meaningful analysis and commentary of key movements.
• Responsibility for PLC and certain Group companies' accounting, including working closely with the Group Finance, Treasury and Tax teams.
• Review and/or posting of periodic journals as necessary.
• Actively consider ways of integrating current reporting/processes to create efficiencies.
• Ensure relevant balance sheet accounts are reconciled each period, both as preparer and in reviewer capacity as necessary.
• Prepare any relevant analysis in line with group accounting policies to support auditing efforts, and to support colleagues as required with the production of statutory accounts.
• Assist in preparation of year-end tax support information.
• Develop, implement and maintain spreadsheet models in line with standardised processes and local terms.
• Support delivery of a robust internal control environment ensuring compliance with all internal procedures and reporting standards.
• Line management of one direct report.
• Support the Head of Corporate & Technical Finance and Group Finance with divisional projects and any additional duties deemed to be within your competency.

What we're looking for

Technical Skills and Experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA).
• Knowledge of management accountancy frameworks.
• Demonstrable knowledge of accounting standards, including IFRS and FRS 102.
• The ability to identify, raise & support resolution of any risks and issues.
• Experience or involvement in projects to deploy changes to processes, or demonstrable transferrable skills.
• Proficient in Excel; SAP S/4HANA and OneStream experience a bonus.

Personal Skills and Experience

• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to effectively explain complex financial/analytical concepts to non-finance colleagues.
• Team-player, with supportive mindset and ability to collaborate across multiple teams and departments.
• Acts as a role model in leading on compliance with First Group financial governance, standards and policies.
• Can constructively challenge established ways of doing things where appropriate, suggesting solutions to drive continuous improvement.
• Well-organised, able to meet deadlines, and manage peaks and troughs in workload.
• Analytical, methodical and logical in approach.
• Ability to lead, encourage and develop direct reports.

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
• 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.