Job SpecificationFinance Analyst (12-Month Maternity Cover) Location: Reading Office (Hybrid - 2-3 days in-person per week) Contract Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term (12 months) Role Overview We are seeking a motivated Finance Analyst to provide maternity cover for a 12-month period. The role combines core finance analyst responsibilities with elements of project work and data analysis. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the team with journal postings, expense analysis, and project-related financial tasks, while ensuring accuracy and compliance across the general ledger. Key Responsibilities Perform finance analyst duties with elements of project management and analysis. Post journals and maintain accurate general ledger records. Work with macro-driven Excel files (understanding macros, not creating them). Support project setup and data management, particularly within PeopleSoft. Contribute to monthly reporting cycles and assist with year-end processes. Collaborate with team members to ensure deadlines are met and financial records are audit-ready. Skills & Experience Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (including working with macros). Solid knowledge of general ledger accounting. Experience in project work or project-related financial analysis. PeopleSoft or ERP system experience is highly desirable. Ability to work independently, manage deadlines, and communicate effectively with stakeholders. Qualifications & Study Support Candidates may be studying towards a finance qualification (e., CIMA, ACCA); full qualification is not required. No financial support for exams, but study leave/time off for exams will be provided. Location & Office Attendance Must be local to the Reading office. In-person attendance is required 2-3 times per week, especially during training and onboarding. Physical presence is essential for effective onboarding; remote training has proven ineffective. Team Structure & Reporting Reporting directly to a senior team member. The team consists of four members plus the hiring lead. Recruitment Timeline & Onboarding Target start date: 1st December (mid-December more realistic due to onboarding). Onboarding typically takes 10 days. Interview process: likely one stage, with final decision by hiring lead If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays