Senior Finance Associate

Why This Role Matters 
This is a pivotal role supporting our O+O (Online & Offline) strategy, to deliver a strong and effective internal control environment through operational and financial audits across a wide range of business units. You will collaborate closely with management to identify pragmatic, efficient and cost‑effective solutions that enhance retail operations, strengthen balance sheet controls and improve core business processes. Taking ownership of complex audit areas, you will leverage data analytics and AI to elevate audit quality and drive smarter decision-making, while acting as a trusted partner to some of our most significant business units. With exposure across Europe and Asia, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence governance and shape best practices at a global level that shapes how millions of customers experience our brands so we can put a smile on our customers’ faces today and tomorrow.

What You’ll Be Doing 

• Carry out operational and financial audit activities across a range of retail processes, assessing the strength and effectiveness of internal controls.
• Lead the more complex and judgement‑intensive elements of each audit engagement, providing direction and insight to the wider project team.
• Apply data analytics and AI tools to deepen analysis, enabling more robust, risk‑based conclusions and smarter decision-making.
• Support business units in preparing twice‑yearly internal control reports and quarterly updates for Group Management, ensuring outputs are clear, accurate and evidence‑based.
• Act as the key internal controls partner for up to two major business units, reviewing self‑assessments and constructively challenging outcomes where needed.
• Deliver special reviews commissioned by Group or Business Unit Management, including bespoke customer journey assessments across both online and offline channels.
• Build strong stakeholder relationships and lead discussions with process owners, FCS leadership and Group functions, with 40–60% international travel across Europe and Asia.

What You’ll Bring 

• Fully qualified in ACA (ICAEW), ACCA or an equivalent qualification (part‑qualified candidates may be considered depending on experience).
• 3–5 years of experience, ideally within external or internal audit, with broader finance or commercial backgrounds also considered.
• Strong accounting knowledge with the ability to evaluate internal controls across both financial and operational processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate findings and influence stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• A proactive, problem‑solving mindset, with the confidence to challenge existing processes and drive improvements.
• Data analytics capability (e.g. Power BI or similar tools) to support deeper insight and more informed decision-making.

How You Will Make An Impact

• Bring a curious and analytical mindset, using data‑driven insights to solve complex problems and unlock opportunities to improve processes.
• Build trusted, collaborative relationships across diverse teams and markets, creating an environment where ideas and perspectives are valued.
• Deliver high‑quality work that drives meaningful and lasting improvements across the business.
• Confidently and constructively challenge stakeholders, guiding them toward stronger, more effective control outcomes.
• Support and mentor junior team members, helping to develop capability and strengthen the wider team.
• Stay organised and focused in a fast‑paced environment, managing competing priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
• Embrace international exposure and thrive in a varied role, contributing to impactful projects across multiple markets.

Who We Are 
You may not have heard of us, but you’ll know our brands. AS Watson is the world’s largest international health and beauty retailer, with over 17,000 stores across 31 markets serving more than 5.3 billion customers each year. 
From Superdrug, Kruidvat and Watsons to Marionnaud, The Perfume Shop and many more, our brands are loved by customers around the world. Behind them are passionate people who are encouraged to innovate, collaborate and grow. 

What You’ll Get From Us 

• Competitive Salary and Bonus Scheme 
• Exclusive Discounts – Enjoy savings across our iconic brands 
• Holiday Entitlement 
• Hybrid Working Model 
• Refer-a-Friend Scheme – Share opportunities and earn rewards 
• Learning and Development Opportunities – Grow your skills with tailored programmes 
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Support – Because your wellbeing matters 
• Life Assurance – Peace of mind for you and your loved ones 
• Interest-Free Loans – Financial support if you need it, without the extra cost