Group Finance Accountant

Since Aspen was founded in 2002, we have become a leading, diversified specialty insurance and reinsurance company. We respond thoughtfully and creatively to find the best outcomes for our clients and business partners through carefully-tailored solutions.

We believe the way we work is just as important as the work we do, and we are guided by our core values of respect, honesty, trust and professionalism.

Aspen is a great place to develop your career offering an exciting and challenging environment where achievement is rewarded.

Role Purpose

The Group Finance Accountant will play a crucial role in supporting the Group Finance Manager in managing the Corporate Accounting Services global process. This will initially include the centralization and streamlining of processes such as foreign exchange, leases, fixed assets and will expand to the management of all group accounting processes. This position requires a detail-oriented, proactive and adaptable individual with a strong understanding of US GAAP and SOX compliance. The successful candidate will ensure accurate financial reporting and contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the finance function
 

Key Results Areas 

Strategy and Planning 

• Contributes to functional strategy development and prioritises operational deliverables and activities of team to support delivery of overall business targets
• Manages tactical plan and provides support to others to achieve positive results for the business in line with strategy

Policy, Process and Procedures

• Applies specific expertise to advise and guide others within the team, to ensure accuracy, good practice and adherence to prescribed standards
• Is responsible for a range of duties and, as an experienced practitioner, completes transactions, within a broader range of value and complexity (making decisions within authority limits) to ensure that operational processes and/or individual transactions are appropriately executed and that files, documentation and related systems are properly maintained
• Assists in the interpretation of organisation goals and regulatory/legislative requirements; and is proactive, in reviewing, analysing and suggesting how compliance, effectiveness and risk management can be improved
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Environmental Awareness/Customer Focus 

• As a senior technical expert and designated point contact for others within the function, is proactive in providing advice and guidance to colleagues, making appropriate decisions and promoting improved understanding of functional needs and standards
• Develops strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that service delivery meets customer/colleague expectations
• Networks with relevant colleagues across the organisation to share best practice and to identify optimal service delivery options within the function
• Builds upon broad awareness of their market context, industry best practice and headline legislation related to their specific discipline, by engaging with external peers, to enhance personal contribution to functional performance

Knowledge

•    Strong understanding of US GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
•    Understanding of internal controls and risk management practices including SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act) compliance requirements
•    Technical understanding of insurance accounting and regulatory requirements
•    Proficiency in accounting software and ERP systems

Skills

•    Advanced Microsoft Word, Excel and Powerpoint, and Sharepoint skills
•    Strong attention to detail and accuracy
•    Excellent written and verbal communication
•    Good at establishing and maintaining internal and external solid working relationships
•    Effective at influencing all stakeholders
•    Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
•    Continuous improvement mind-set

Experience

•    Professional accounting qualification (ICAEW, ACA, SAICA CA (SA) or equivalent)
•    3 or more post qualified years of experience
•    Experience within the general insurance industry, working in Insurance and Reinsurance segments and with previous Group Finance experience (preferable)
•    Experience with financial reporting, consolidation, and analysis.
 

At Aspen we know that having a diverse and inclusive workforce is good for our people, good for our business and good for the environments in which we operate.  We therefore welcome applications from people which allows us to draw on diverse cultures, perspectives, skills and experiences.