Commercial Assistant Accountant

Our client is a major retailer in Northern Ireland with over 1000 staff across their group. They are looking to hire a Commercial Assistant Accountant to join their corporate team. The main role of the Commercial Assistant Accountant is to support the Finance Business Partner in leading the retail financial performance through enhancing the profitability of the stores. This will be achieved by supporting the Business Partner in payroll reporting, procurement projects and other cost saving projects. The function will oversee 15 stores in total. The role will be both office and field based with the individual required to attend stores on an ongoing basis in order to assist in driving the business forward by developing relationships with front line managers, developing appropriate performance measurement reports and ensuring clear and concise communication. Duties will include the following: To assist with the development and roll out of payroll reporting to the estate; including the ongoing development of payroll rostering, benchmarking and analysis tools.To assist with the development and roll out of key procurement projects. This will include liaising with other divisions to utilise existing contractual positions where possible.To contribute to the Head Office reporting project and the formulation of a business case.To support the financial business case around the control system and be involved in the roll out of same.To support the investigation and understanding of stock loss variances across the estate.To contribute to the preparation of capital expenditure proposals for impending store refurbishments.Other projects and ad-hoc work as required. Person Specification Part Qualified Accountant with membership of a professional body e.g. ACA / ACCA / CIMA.Two years' experience working in a fast paced commercial environment.Demonstrable evidence of preparing and presenting analysis to a high standard and to finance/non-finance people.Ability to demonstrate strong initiative and an achievement orientated approach to results. Business Degree/diploma.Accounting experience in the Retail/Wholesale sector would be preferred.Strong commercial experience, particularly in the preparation and presentation of reports and analysis.Experience of being involved in procurement projects and obtaining lowest cost solutions.