Graduate Accounting Analyst

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

This is a graduate trainee role with exposure to the main finance streams of financial reporting and business analysis (whilst studying for ACCA/CIMA).

Add value to the business by providing timely, accurate financial analysis to enable business directors / department heads to monitor departmental / country performance. Provide regular management reporting to Sotheby’s internal management by the agreed deadlines; Reconciliation and control of the balance sheet accounts.

• Responsibility for the preparation of monthly results, variance analysis and commentary in accordance with the agreed corporate timetable for senior management review.
• To present draft and results to business directors / department heads, interpret and explanation of key variances.
• Act as the finance department contact for designated departments / countries; providing them with financial assistance and ad hoc analysis where necessary.

• Preparation of revenue and expenditure forecasts, variance analysis and commentary in accordance with the agreed corporate timetable for senior management review.
• To be able to interpret and discuss the forecast results with business directors / department / country heads.
• Act as the finance department contact for designated departments; providing them with financial assistance and ad hoc analysis where necessary.

• Responsible for the account control and analysis of designated profit & loss and balance sheet accounts related to departments / countries across the business.

• Responsible for the compilation of the annual budget in conjunction with the business director / department / country heads.

• To build strong working relationships within finance and the business.
• To contribute to the wider team during month end, forecast and budgeting to provide timely and accurate reports and analysis for senior management.

• Providing various ad-hoc analysis as required within finance by finance managers and finance directors.

• Graduate with a 2:1 or above. Preferably in a finance, business, economics or mathematics background.
• Minimum ‘A’ grade at Maths GCSE (or equivalent).
• Excellent communication (written and spoken) and interpersonal skills to build positive relationships both within finance and with stakeholders at all levels.
• Organised, confident and driven to achieve.
• Attention to detail and maintains accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative problem-solving ability.
• Previous management accounting / financial accounting experience, particularly in interpreting results to financial and non-financial individuals.
• Strong Excel and analytical skills.
• Prior knowledge and experience working with BI/reporting tools and SAP would be advantageous but not essential.