Dawsongroup plc, the UK’s leading specialist asset rental business, currently has the following opportunity at our Head Office based in Milton Keynes.
We are now seeking to appoint a Business Analyst placement student who will, in the first instance, be responsible for sourcing and purchasing goods and services for Dawsongroup and its subsidiaries. The main aim of this position is to evaluate costs, quality and service in order to get the best value and reduce the Group’s overall spend.
This role is the perfect opportunity for somebody studying towards an analytical or business degree and who is self- motivated and eager to enhance their studies within a dynamic environment. You must be driven, resilient and able to multitask. Excellent communication (written & verbal), interpersonal and presentation skills will be essential.
Closing date of 31st May 2013. The salary meets National Minimum Wage.
If you would like to apply for this position, please email your CV and covering letter to personnel@dawsongroup.co.uk quoting the reference number DG186.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Location: Milton Keynes
Title: Business Analyst Placement Student
Reporting To: Group Accounting Director
Head of Dept: Group Finance Director
Reporting Structure: See appendix 1
Purpose of Job: As a graduate trainee, your time will be split equally between the Business Analyst and Accountant disciplines. You will be responsible for researching and analysing the costs incurred by the Group with a view to negotiating with suppliers to reduce these costs, without jeopardising the quality of goods and / or services. Under the Accountant role, you will also be responsible for assisting the Accounting department in the preparation of the management accounts each month.
Business Analyst Key Functions:
- Procure quality materials, goods and services at lowest purchase cost whilst ensuring cost effective and timely delivery of those materials and services.
- Identify, appraise and manage projects which will be of benefit to the Group, with a particular focus on those forecast to reduce Group costs.
- Develop both long and short term business relationships with key suppliers to ensure reliable sources of supply.
- Continually assess supplier performance and identify new products and suppliers.
- Negotiate prices and agree contracts in line with Group procedures.
- Prepare and process requisitions and purchase orders for supplies and equipment along with the administration of invoices and payments.
- Liaise with the Bought Ledger Department to ensure accurate and timely payment of invoices, as per the agreed terms of business with the supplier.
Accountant Key Functions:
- Learning to use the IBM AS400 Accounting system.
- Fixed asset register and capital invoice administration.
- Monthly cashbook preparation.
- Journal preparation and posting.
- Road fund licence administration.
- Account reconciliations.
Strategy & Planning:
- Monitor and analyse trends in company spending and inventory control in order to make recommendations for the future, and to identify areas for possible savings.
- Develop, establish, implement, enforce supplier guidelines, obligations and service level agreement for the Group.
- Develop and implement all purchasing policies and procedures, including those for equipment and service provision, in conjunction with department heads and department-specific requirements.
- Analyse trends and market conditions for the present and future pricing, availability, lead-time, and capacity of goods and services.
- Identify, interview, and qualify potential new vendors or suppliers in order to secure more cost-effective sources of products and services.
- Develop and deliver purchasing and inventory reports, bid proposals/documentation.
Operational Management:
- Direct and manage sourcing strategies from beginning to end.
- Monitor vendor, service provider, outsourcer and/or contractor performance to ensure quality of service.
- Establish and maintain regular written and in-person communications with the Group’s executives, department heads, and end users regarding relevant sourcing activities.
Qualifications & Experience:
- The job holder will be studying towards an analytical or business degree, and who is self- motivated and eager to enhance their studies within a dynamic environment.
- Must be driven, resilient and able to multitask.
- Excellent communication (written & verbal), interpersonal and presentation skills will be essential.
- Strong analytical and project management skills are required.
- Excel, and Word skills all highly desirable.
- Knowledge and capability at influencing peers and senior managers.
- Previous accounting experience will be advantageous, though not strictly necessary.