This role is there to support the Senior Financial Accountant with preparation of monthly

audit files, regulatory reports and statutory reports.

I will support the Senior Financial Accountant by assisting with the preparation of monthly audit files to
ensure accurate financial reporting. I will also help prepare regulatory and statutory reports to ensure
compliance with relevant standards and regulations. Additionally, I’ll be involved in gathering financial
data and supporting the team to ensure timely and accurate submissions.

Key accountabilities

Financial Control

 Quarterly balance sheet reconciliations (technical and intercompany)

 Investigate and fix any issues

I have experience performing quarterly balance sheet reconciliations, including both technical and
intercompany reconciliations, to ensure that all accounts are accurate and balanced. In my previous
roles, I’ve worked closely with teams to identify discrepancies, investigate root causes, and ensure
all intercompany transactions are properly accounted for. This experience has helped me develop a
strong understanding of reconciliation processes and attention to detail.

 Liaise with auditors

I have experience liaising with auditors to provide the necessary documentation and support for
audits. In my previous roles, I helped prepare financial records, responded to auditor inquiries, and
ensured timely access to relevant data.

 Monthly audit file

I have experience preparing monthly audit files by organizing financial data and ensuring all
supporting documentation is complete and accurate. In my previous roles, I worked on gathering
financial information to meet audit requirements. This process has helped me develop strong
attention to detail and an understanding of the key elements needed for a successful audit.

Regulatory Reporting (PRA and other)

  Support the production of Solvency UK returns (QRTs / ARTs) to the PRA
(including working with the actuaries to produce a SUK balance sheet, a
breakdown of investments, reinsurance etc.) - Quarterly and Annual

QRTs (Quantitative Reporting Templates): These are standardized forms that

capture detailed financial information about the insurer's balance sheet, risk
exposure, and capital.

ARTs (Annual Regulatory Templates): These include additional regulatory information that needs to
be submitted annually

The process is ensuring that the insurer’s financial statements align with regulatory requirements
for by collecting financial data, calculating the solvency position,

 Levy reporting information (FSCS, Flood Re, ELTO, London Fire Brigade)

Levy reporting information refers to the process of providing data related to various levies that
insurance companies are required to pay to specific funds as part of their regulatory obligations.

ABI reporting - Annual, Quarterly

ABI reporting refers to the process of submitting required data and information to the Association of
British Insurers (ABI), which is the trade association for the UK insurance industry. The ABI represents
insurance companies and works to influence policy, promote good practice, and ensure regulatory
compliance within the industry.

 NCID reporting - Annual, Half year

NCID (National Claims Information Database) reporting is a requirement for insurance companies to
submit data related to claims for a specific period (either annually or semi-annually). The purpose of
NCID reporting is to provide the regulatory bodies and other stakeholders with detailed information on
claims made under insurance policies, allowing them to monitor trends, understand risk exposure, and
ensure that insurers are financially stable and compliant with regulatory standards.

 SNST

SNST refers to testing to evaluate an insurance company’s solvency position. It is a critical measure to
ensure that insurers have enough capital to meet their long-term obligations, particularly under various
stress scenarios.

Group Reporting

 Quarterly group reporting pack – production and commentary

I have experience in producing quarterly group reporting packs by gathering financial data from various
departments and consolidating it into a comprehensive report. I’ve worked on preparing key financial
statements and metrics, providing clear comments on performance. This experience has enhanced my
ability to analyze financial data and effectively communicate key insights to senior management and
stakeholders.

Quarterly Insurance Result Production

 Year on year checks (GWP, earnings, commission, loss ratios etc.)

 Investigating any issues

I have experience conducting year-on-year checks for key financial metrics such as Gross Written
Premium (GWP), earnings, commission, and loss ratios to track performance trends. I’ve been
responsible for analyzing variances and identifying any discrepancies between periods.

During my time as a finance intern, I have to check financial metric like revenue, gross profit margin,
ROT and net profit and report to finance manager about the financial health of the company

General Balance Sheet Clear-Up

 Review/reconcile historic balances for accuracy

I have experience reviewing and reconciling historic balances to ensure their accuracy by
comparing them with supporting documentation and previous records. In my previous roles, I
identified errors, investigated their causes, and made necessary adjustments to maintain correct
financial data. This process helped me develop strong attention to detail and a systematic
approach to ensuring all balances are accurate and up to date.

Process Improvements

 Automate processes where possible

 Ensure process notes are up to date and easy to follow

Company Overview:

1. Introduction:
HDI Global SE is a leading global insurer, providing comprehensive insurance and risk
management solutions for companies in the trading, manufacturing, and service industries.
With over 100 years of experience, HDI offers tailored insurance products and services
designed to meet the unique needs of businesses worldwide.

2. Parent Company & Group Structure:

HDI Global SE is the flagship company of the Industrial Clients Division of the Talanx
Group, one of the largest insurance groups in Germany and Europe. The Talanx Group operates
as a multi-brand provider across several key sectors:

3. What HDI Global SE Does:

HDI Global SE specializes in B2B insurance and risk management services, offering customized solutions
to address the unique risks faced by businesses of all sizes. They provide tailored insurance concepts,
help companies manage and reduce risks, and ensure professional, efficient claims management. Their
goal is to support businesses by offering innovative and reliable services that protect against operational
risks.

4. Global Presence & Operations:

 Headquarters: Germany
 International Reach: HDI operates in 39 countries worldwide, with Europe being its
core market.
 Workforce: Approximately 5,000 employees globally.
 Premium Volume: More than 50% of premium revenue is generated from
international markets.

In 2016, the company rebranded from HDI-Gerling Industrie Versicherung AG to HDI

Global SE to align with its international focus, ensuring a uniform corporate identity across all
branches, subsidiaries, and affiliates.

5. Collaborations & Clients:

While specific corporate collaborations aren’t listed, HDI Global SE works closely with a wide
range of companies in various industries such as:

 Trading Firms
 Manufacturing Companies
 Service Providers

HDI partners with businesses of all sizes, from small enterprises to large multinational
corporations, offering tailored insurance products and risk management solutions.
6. Career Opportunities:
HDI Global SE offers diverse career opportunities in fields such as:

 Insurance & Risk Management

 Finance & Accounting
 IT & Data Analytics
 Legal & Compliance
 Sales & Marketing
 Human Resources

HDI is known for fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment, providing
opportunities for career growth and professional development. They value diversity,
international experience, and a client-centric approach.

Graduate & Internship Programs:

HDI offers graduate programs, internships, and traineeships that provide hands-on
experience in various business areas. These programs are designed to develop future leaders in
the insurance and risk management sectors.

7. Financial Strength & Market Position:

As a part of the Talanx Group, HDI Global SE benefits from strong financial backing and a
stable market position. The Talanx Group is one of Europe’s largest insurance companies, with
significant assets and a diverse portfolio of services. HDI's robust financial health ensures the
ability to deliver reliable services and fulfill claims obligations.

8. Future Outlook & Innovation:

HDI Global SE continues to expand its global footprint, focusing on innovative insurance
solutions and digital transformation to meet the evolving needs of businesses. Their emphasis
on sustainability, technological integration, and global risk management positions them as a
forward-thinking leader in the insurance industry.
Research 3 reasons why you want to work for this company Explore their training programs, focus on
employee development, and the aspects of the company that align with your values and career goals.

1. Investing in training, valuing experience

At HDI Global Specialty we want you to progress. That’s why we invest in advance training as a priority,
keeping our employees ahead of current trends and enhancing their expertise. By doing this, we’ve built
up a global team of industry-topping professionals who can mentor the next generation through our
company seminars.

Our training services include:

 Professional qualification

 Development of general methodological and social skills

 Development of management staff

 Project manager qualification

 Junior employee development programs

Three Reasons Why I Want to Work at HDI Global SE

1. Commitment to Professional Development and Training Programs

HDI Global SE's structured training programs are particularly appealing to me because they emphasize
continuous professional development in finance roles. My role as an Intern Finance Assistant at ANO
Car Company allowed me to gain practical experience in financial reporting, compliance, and transaction
management, where I developed strong technical skills in tools like Excel, Xero, and financial reporting
standards (IFRS). However, I am eager to take this further by engaging in global training programs that
will enhance both my theoretical knowledge and practical expertise. HDI supports employee who would
like to pursue their professional qualification like ACCA , align perfectly with my goal to get deeper level
my understanding financial management and analyst, while providing the hands-on experience in a
global environment.

2. Alignment with My Long-Term Career Goals in Finance

I am looking to build a long-term career with multinational company like HDI, which operates in 39
countries and provide financial solutions. So I can grow and develop my skills, I can progress into a
financial leadership role within this international organization. HDI’s commitment to fostering growth in
finance roles will help me upgrading my skills in financial analysis , I can contribute to the company
while progressing toward my CFA, professional qualification.
3. Global Perspective and Opportunities for Cross-Cultural Collaboration
As HDI is international company, I can get advantages of working in diverse workforce. my role as a
Student Ambassador at Coventry University developed my communication and organizational abilities,
which will be valuable in collaborating with international teams at HDI. By Working in such a dynamic,
global environment, I can grow both my technical skills and cross-cultural insights.

Research two specific projects Identify two notable projects the company has worked on. Understand
what these projects involve, why they interest you, and how they align with your skills and ambitions.

I am particularly drawn to that one project HDI has been doing

Implementation of a Global Core Insurance System

The project involved integrating various IT systems into a cohesive platform which facilitate better data
management and decision-making processes.

Why This Interests Me:

This project highlights HDI's commitment to enhancing technology for operational success. My
experience as an Intern Finance Assistant at ANO Car Company, I have to use financial software and
tools like Excel and Xero for reporting and compliance. I am keen to further develop my skills in financial
systems and data analysis within a global framework that will enhance organizational efficiency and
support informed decision-making.

Engaging in such innovative projects would provide me with the opportunity to apply my academic
knowledge and practical experience to real-world challenges, aligning with my career goal of becoming a
Chartered Financial Analyst specializing in risk management and financial technology.

• Tell me about yourself.

Situation:
I am currently a final-year BSc (Hons) International Finance and Banking student at
Coventry University, on track to graduate with First Class Honours. I am also a part qualified
ACCA student. Throughout my academic journey, I have developed a strong foundation in
financial analysis, risk management, and data management.

Task:
My goal is to gain hands-on experience in financial reporting, compliance, and preparing
financial data into insight, while preparing for a career as a Chartered Financial Analyst
(CFA).

Action:
I secured an Intern Finance Assistant role at ANO Car Company, where I was responsible for
preparing month-end and year-end financial reports, ensuring compliance with accounting
standards, and recording daily transactions with accuracy. I utilized tools like Excel
(VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables) and Xero to enhance financial processes, which improved
productivity by 30%. Additionally, I collaborated with cross-functional teams to align financial
plans with organizational goals, further enhancing my budgeting and planning skills.

Beyond technical skills, I also served as a Student Ambassador at Coventry University, where I
honed my communication and organizational abilities by conducting campus tours, assisting
with enrollment, and supporting university events.

Result:
These experiences have equipped me with a combination of technical proficiency and
interpersonal skills. I not only improved the accuracy and efficiency of financial operations at
ANO Car Company but also enhanced my ability to work collaboratively in dynamic
environments. My academic success, including receiving the Vice Chancellor Scholarship and
excelling in modules like Financial Technology and Risk Management, has provided me with
a solid theoretical background.

With this strong foundation, I am eager to contribute to a global organization like HDI Global
SE, where I can further develop my expertise in finance and risk management while progressing
toward my goal of becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst.

• Why do you want to work here?

1. Global Exposure and Alignment with My Career Goals

I want to work at HDI Global SE because of its strong international presence and reputation
as a leader in insurance and risk management. As someone pursuing a career in finance and
risk assessment, I’m drawn to HDI’s focus on bespoke insurance solutions and comprehensive
risk management strategies. My degree in International Finance and Banking has given me
a solid theoretical foundation, but working at a global company like HDI will provide me with
the hands-on, cross-border experience I need to deepen my expertise. This aligns perfectly
with my goal of becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and contributing to financial
solutions on a global scale.

2. Commitment to Professional Development

HDI’s structured training programs and emphasis on employee development are key reasons
I’m excited about this opportunity. During my internship as a Finance Assistant at ANO Car
Company, I gained valuable experience in financial reporting, compliance, and data analysis.
However, HDI’s focus on continuous learning and providing tailored career progression
opportunities will allow me to build on these skills in a more specialized, global context. The
opportunity to participate in risk management projects and learn from industry leaders at HDI
is exactly what I need to advance in my career.

3. Innovation in Risk Management and Financial Solutions

HDI’s innovative projects, such as the Excess Life Sciences Liability Policy and the
implementation of a global core insurance system, show the company’s dedication to staying
ahead in the industry. I’m particularly excited about how HDI leverages technology in financial
solutions, My experience using tools like Excel, Xero, and financial reporting software
positions me well to contribute to such initiatives. I’m eager to be part of a company that
combines technology and finance to drive innovative solutions

• What do you know about this company?

HDI Global SE is a leading international insurance company specializing in providing

tailored insurance solutions and risk management services for businesses in industries such
as trading, manufacturing, and services. It is the flagship company of the Industrial Clients
Division of the Talanx Group, which is one of the largest insurance groups in Europe.

I’m particularly impressed by HDI’s focus on innovation and technology, highlighted by

projects such as the implementation of a global core insurance system to streamline operations
and improve efficiency. They’ve also launched specialized products like the Excess Life
Sciences Liability Policy, which reflects their proactive approach to emerging industry risks.

Additionally, HDI places a strong emphasis on employee development. They offer structured
graduate and trainee programs, fostering continuous learning and growth, which aligns
perfectly with my career goal of becoming a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) while gaining
global, hands-on experience in finance and risk management.

What is your greatest strength?

My greatest strength is my ability to combine analytical skills with practical problem-

solving in finance

During my internship as a Finance Assistant at ANO Car Company, I was responsible for
preparing month-end and year-end financial reports and ensuring compliance with accounting
standards. I enhanced my strong analytical skills and attention to detail to record daily financial
transactions with 100% accuracy, which helped reduce discrepancies by 15% through
systematic verification processes. Additionally, I used advanced Excel functions like
VLOOKUPs and Pivot Tables to streamline data analysis, increasing productivity by 30%.

Beyond technical skills, my ability to work collaboratively is another strength. I demonstrated

this while leading a group project at Coventry University on intercultural communication.
Coordinating a diverse team, I facilitated discussions, delegated tasks, which enhanced both my
leadership and teamwork abilities.

These experiences show my strength in analyzing complex financial data, ensuring accuracy,
and effectively collaborating with teams—skills that will allow me to contribute to HDI
Global SE’s focus on risk management and innovative financial solutions.

• What is your greatest weakness?

My greatest weakness has been my tendency to be overly detail-oriented, especially when

working on financial reports and data analysis.

During my internship as a Finance Assistant at ANO Car Company, I was responsible for
preparing financial reports and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. I found myself
spending extra time double-checking every detail to ensure accuracy, which, while beneficial for
maintaining high-quality work, sometimes impacted my efficiency, especially when working
under tight deadlines.

However, I recognized this early on and took proactive steps to address it. I started using time
management techniques, such as setting specific time limits for reviewing reports and
prioritizing tasks based on deadlines and complexity. Additionally, I improved my use of Excel
automation tools, like VLOOKUPs and Pivot Tables, to streamline data verification processes.
This allowed me to maintain accuracy while improving productivity by 30%.

Now, I’ve learned to balance my attention to detail with efficiency, ensuring high-quality work
without compromising deadlines. I believe this continuous improvement mindset will help me
thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment like HDI Global SE.

• Why should I hire you?

I believe I am a strong candidate because of my combination of academic knowledge and

practical experience. I am in my final year of studying International Finance and Banking at
Coventry University, where I've gained a solid understanding of financial theory, international
banking, and risk management. In addition, I have practical experience

I am passionate about contributing to the success of the team and the organization, which is why
I continuously strive to learn new skills, such as data analysis and finance technology, to stay
relevant in this rapidly evolving field. My ability to communicate across cultures and work
effectively within diverse teams, as demonstrated by my volunteer work, also adds value to any
organization looking to foster collaboration and inclusivity.

I'm confident that my combination of technical knowledge, experience, and passion for
continuous improvement makes me a valuable addition to your team."
This answer ties your strengths and experiences directly to the potential needs of an employer,
showing your fit for the position. Does this approach work for you?

• What can you offer us that someone else can not?

I offer a unique combination of financial analysis skills, practical experience, and
leadership abilities. I have hands-on experience with financial reporting and
compliance from my finance assistant internship, where I reduced discrepancies
by 15% through precise data management. My leadership in a group project
sharpened my analytical and intercultural communication skills, and my technical
proficiency in Excel and financial software enhances efficiency. Additionally, my
customer service and ambassador roles have strengthened my problem-solving,
teamwork, and communication abilities, allowing me to thrive in dynamic
environments.

• How do you handle pressure and deadlines?

I handle pressure and deadlines by staying organized and prioritizing tasks.

During my finance internship, I managed multiple responsibilities like financial
reporting and ledger updates under tight deadlines by creating clear schedules
and using tools like Excel for efficiency. I break down complex tasks into
manageable steps and focus on completing them one at a time. If challenges arise,
I stay calm, seek support from my team when needed, and adjust my approach to
meet deadlines without compromising accuracy.

• Do you prefer to work independently or as part of a team?

I am comfortable working both independently and as part of a team. During my finance

internship, I handled tasks like financial reporting and data analysis independently, ensuring
accuracy and meeting deadlines. At the same time, I collaborated with cross-functional teams on
budgeting and planning, which strengthened my teamwork and communication skills. Leading a
group project at university also improved my ability to coordinate with others, delegate tasks,
and achieve shared goals. I enjoy balancing both approaches depending on what the task
requires.

• What are your salary requirements?

As a recent graduate entering the workforce, I’m more focused on finding a role where I can
grow, contribute, and gain valuable experience. However, I understand the importance of fair
compensation. Based on my research into similar positions in this field and my qualifications, I
would expect a salary in the range of [insert a reasonable salary range here based on industry
standards and location].

I am open to discussing a salary that aligns with the responsibilities of the role and reflects my
skills, qualifications, and experience. I am confident we can agree on a fair and competitive rate
based on industry standards and the value I can bring to your team.

• Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself as a skilled financial analyst, working in a reputable company where I
can apply my expertise in financial data analysis and risk management. I aim to have completed
my ACCA qualifications and possibly be working towards or have earned my CFA designation.
I also plan to deepen my knowledge in financial technology and data analytics to stay ahead in
the evolving finance industry. Eventually, I hope to take on more leadership responsibilities and
contribute to strategic financial decision-making within the organization.

Why do you think you’re good fit for the company?

I believe I’m a good fit for the company because of my strong foundation in financial analysis,
data management, and risk assessment, combined with practical experience in financial reporting
and compliance from my internship. My proficiency in financial software like Xero and Excel
allows me to work efficiently and accurately. I also bring strong problem-solving,
communication, and teamwork skills from my roles as a student ambassador and project leader.
My commitment to continuous learning, shown through my ACCA and CFA studies, aligns with
the company’s goals for growth and excellence.

We want to improve our safety standards. What is the most effective way to do this?

Which engineering discipline interests you the most, and why?

What are your main strengths? Do you have any weakness?

What were your favourite modules in University and how are they relevant to the work we do? How
have you demonstrated leadership qualities at university?

How have you demonstrated leadership qualities at university?

STAR Method Questions

How would you manage meeting deadlines at once?

Situation: During my finance internship, I had to prepare month-end financial reports while also
managing daily transaction records under tight deadlines.

Task: I needed to complete both tasks accurately and on time without compromising quality.

Action: I prioritized tasks by deadlines and complexity, created a clear schedule, and used Excel
tools like VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables to streamline data analysis. I also communicated with my
team to clarify priorities and address any challenges quickly.

Result: I completed both tasks on time with 100% accuracy, reduced discrepancies by 15%, and
improved overall productivity by 30%.

When have you faced a challenging situation?

Situation: During my group project at university, we faced a challenge when team members had
conflicting ideas about how to approach our research on intercultural communication.

Task: As the team leader, I needed to resolve these conflicts and ensure the project stayed on
track to meet our deadline.

Action: I organized a meeting to openly discuss everyone's ideas and concerns. I encouraged
each member to share their perspective, then facilitated a compromise that combined the best
elements from each approach. I also delegated tasks based on each person's strengths to improve
collaboration.

Result: The team worked more effectively, and we completed the project on time with a
cohesive report. Our project received positive feedback for its thorough analysis and teamwork.

Can you tell us about a personal achievement at work?

One of my key achievements at work was improving the accuracy of financial transactions. I reduced
discrepancies by 15% through systematic verification processes. I also streamlined data analysis by using
advanced Excel functions, which improved productivity by 30%. This helped ensure smoother financial
operations and more accurate reports.

Have you ever failed at a task?

Situation: During my internship as a Finance Assistant, I was tasked with preparing a financial
report for the month-end closing.

Task: The report had to be accurate and ready for audit, but I initially missed some important
data points.

Action: I quickly identified the missing data and worked extra hours to gather the correct
information. I also double-checked my work to ensure everything was accurate.

Result: The report was completed on time, and the accuracy was improved, preventing any
potential audit issues. I learned the importance of double-checking details and time management.

Provide an example of a time when you had to solve a problem

Situation: At my internship as a Finance Assistant, I noticed a discrepancy in the daily financial

transactions that was affecting our month-end reports.

Task: I needed to identify the source of the discrepancy and resolve it quickly to ensure the
reports were accurate.

Action: I reviewed the transaction records and found that some entries had been recorded
incorrectly. I communicated with the relevant team members and corrected the errors in the
system.

Result: The discrepancy was resolved, and the reports were updated without delay. The accuracy
of the financial data improved, reducing errors by 15%.

Describe the most significant written technical report or presentation that you have had to complete.

Describe a time when you confronted a problem that really tested your engineering know-how.

-
Describe a time when you encountered difficulty and required assistance? What did you learn from it?

The most significant written report I completed was for my group project titled "Transcending
Boundaries, Uniting Perspectives." As the team leader, I was responsible for compiling and
synthesizing the findings into a comprehensive report. The report analyzed various intercultural
communication frameworks and how they could be applied for effective collaboration across
cultures.

I gathered input from team members, structured the report to ensure clarity, and integrated data
analysis to support our conclusions. This required attention to detail, strong organizational skills,
and the ability to present complex ideas in a clear, concise manner. The report was well-received
and helped us achieve a high mark in the project.

Tell Me About a Time When You Demonstrated Leadership Skills

During my group project "Transcending Boundaries, Uniting Perspectives," I demonstrated

leadership skills as the team leader. My role involved coordinating tasks, guiding the team in
analyzing intercultural communication frameworks, and ensuring that each member contributed
effectively.

I delegated responsibilities based on team members' strengths and facilitated discussions to keep
the project on track. When conflicts arose about different approaches, I helped mediate the
situation, ensuring everyone’s ideas were heard. The project was successful, and my leadership
was key in ensuring we worked collaboratively to produce a cohesive report.

Tell Us About a Conflict You Had with a Coworker. How Did You Solve It?

During my internship as a Finance Assistant, there was a disagreement between me and a

coworker about the approach to reconciling financial discrepancies. They preferred a more
traditional method, while I suggested using Excel functions to streamline the process.

To solve the conflict, I suggested we try both approaches side by side to compare results. I
calmly explained the benefits of using Excel to improve efficiency, and we agreed to test it
together. After seeing the positive results, my coworker was open to adopting the new approach.
This helped improve our teamwork and the efficiency of our financial processes.

-
Tell Us About a Time When You Managed to Handle a Difficult Situation

During my role as a Student Ambassador, I had to handle a difficult situation when a prospective
student became upset about their enrollment process. They were confused about the documents
required and felt frustrated by the delays.

I calmly listened to their concerns, reassured them, and explained the steps clearly. I then
contacted the admissions office to resolve the issue quickly. By staying calm and providing clear
guidance, I was able to turn the situation around, and the student left feeling satisfied and well-
informed.