Group Business Accountant

Who we are

We are an organisation that exists to drive progress. That's the “red thread” that connects everyone at The Economist Group (TEG). Our businesses share a devotion to innovation, independence and rigour in their fields of expertise. We empower people to understand and tackle the critical challenges and changes facing the world. Our analytical rigour, global expertise and evidence-based insights enable individuals and organisations to make sense of these shifts and chart a course through them.

We deliver analysis and insights in many formats to subscribers and clients in 170 countries through our four businesses, The Economist, Economist Impact, Economist Intelligence and Economist Education, which uphold our global reputation for excellence and integrity. 

What we’re looking for

We are seeking a Group Business Accountant to support accounting activities across the Group’s accounting functions.

The role will require strong experience in statutory reporting, intercompany processes, and multi-entity accounting across international jurisdictions. The ideal candidate will be confident in managing audits, ensuring regulatory compliance, and delivering accurate management reporting with insightful analysis. They should demonstrate a proactive approach to improving processes, strong stakeholder management skills, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, global environment.

This individual will work within the Group Finance team and report to the [TBD]. The position requires strong attention to detail, effective cross-functional coordination, and a solid working knowledge of IFRS and accounting standards.

Key responsibilities

• Preparation of Statutory accounts for TEG entities across the group, including but not limited to UK, Europe, Asia and India.
• Assist with preparation of Interim and Annual Reports for shareholders.
• Ownership of the InterCompany process to ensure invoicing, remittances and reconciliations are timely and accurate.
• Close engagement with auditors to ensure timely completion of audit, including timely closure of queries and provision of all supporting documentation.
• Oversee legal and statutory compliance for the local entities in the UK, Europe and India, ensuring adherence to local regulatory and reporting requirements, including online submissions on regulatory portals.
• Preparation and ownership of internal management accounts for key Group functions covering variance analysis to budget, forecast and prior year alongside commentaries, including regular accounting and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Continuously review the efficiency and effectiveness of the accounting and reporting function and implement simplification initiatives.
• Update and maintain monthly exchange rates for the Group reporting process and calculate monthly loan interest and foreign exchange (FX) movements.

 

Experience, skills and professional attributes

Education and training:

• Qualified Accountant with 2-3 years of post qualification experience.
• Strong academics

Previous work experience

• Experience of management accounting including accruals/prepayments and variance analysis.
• Balance sheet and cash flow preparation
• Audit coordination
• Statutory reporting
• IFRS and technical accounting knowledge
• Management accounting knowledge
• Consolidation of group results

Technology

• ERP knowledge (PeopleSoft experience advantageous)Strong Excel skills

Personal skills 

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• Ability to take initiative
• Ability to work to tight deadlines
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication

#LI-Hybrid 

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Working Arrangements

The majority of our roles operate on a hybrid working pattern, with 3+ days office attendance required. 

AI usage for your application

We are an innovative organisation that encourages the use of technology. We recognise that candidates may utilise AI tools to support with their job application process. However, it is essential that all information you provide truthfully and accurately reflects your own experience, skills, and qualifications.

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What we offer

Our benefits package is designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and work-life balance. It includes a highly competitive pension or 401(k) plan, private health insurance, and 24/7 access to counselling and wellbeing resources through our Employee Assistance Program.

We also offer a range of lifestyle benefits, including our Work From Anywhere program, which allows you to work from any location where you have the legal right to do so for up to 25 days per year. In addition, we provide generous annual and parental leave, as well as dedicated days off for volunteering and even for moving home.

You will also be given free access to all The Economist content, including an online subscription, our range of apps, podcasts and more.