We’re a digital insurance provider with ambitious plans to become the best and biggest in the UK market. We’ve made huge investments in our data and tech capabilities over the past few years, along with nurturing our 4Cs culture. We were also named the UK’s Best Big Company to work for in 2024. We’re proud of the journey we’re on as a company and know that our continued success will rely on the contribution of our talented colleagues.
We have over 3.8 million live customer policies, but we know there’s an even bigger opportunity out there. The fact you’re now reading this job advert means we’ve tempted you to find out more about #lifeatHD – we really hope you like what you see, and you’ll join us to share in the success of the exciting chapter that lies ahead.
Programme overview
For 9 years, our finance graduate programme has been promoting and supporting talented graduates to become qualified accountants whilst developing into management roles at Hastings Direct. This three-year programme is designed to attract and develop our future Finance leaders. The programme spans the entire breadth of our Finance department, where you will be presented with three twelve-month placements within the following areas:
- Financial Accounts
- Financial Reporting
- Business Partnership (Analyst)
- Management Reporting
- Tax
- Financial Modelling
Within these placements you will have the opportunity to develop the core competencies expected of a finance professional, such as planning and forecasting, financial reporting and business performance management. Alongside these technical skills you will be encouraged to develop the behaviours required to be successful in a commercial environment.
As a member of our Finance team, you will be required to become ACCA ** (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualified. We will provide full funding and support so you can gain this across the three-year programme, allowing you to be a well-rounded finance professional.
Requirements
- University degree of at least a 2:1, pending in 2025 or achieved in the last 2 years, within any subject (though Accountancy, Finance, Mathematics, Economics, Business or similar discipline would be highly advantageous)
- The desire and ability to gain a professional qualification while working
- Have a clear demonstrable interest in a career in finance
- Self-aware – you are clear on your strengths and development areas and able to build a well-recognised brand around your strengths
- Able to challenge the norm, consider a range of views and drive and embed change
- Enthusiasm and drive to develop your skillset and seek out development opportunities within a supportive team.
Next steps
- 6th Jan 2025 Applications will open. Please upload your CV and answer some basic compliance questions. Upon submission, you will receive a web link via email to begin some short online assessments.
- 2nd Feb 2025 Applications will close, and all assessments must be completed.
- 10th Feb 2025 If successful, you’ll then need to complete a role suitability practical test or video interview. You’ll receive a new web link for this.
- 23rd Feb 2025 Closing date for the role suitability practical test or video interview.
- 12th Mar 2025 If successful, you will be notified and invited to an in-person assessment centre.
- 25th – 27th Mar 2025 The in-person Assessment Centres will be held in Bexhill-On-Sea, East Sussex between the specified dates.
- 31st Mar – 4th Apr 2025 Feedback and Job Offers will be made to assessment centre attendees.
- 15th Sep 2025 Your graduate journey as a colleague at Hastings Direct will begin.
Benefits
When you join Hastings Direct, you’ll be making a real contribution to our success. You deserve to share in that success, so alongside a competitive salary which grows as you progress through your graduate scheme, we offer a benefits package that recognises and rewards your part in our growth.
- Flexible Working – We champion a flexible and hybrid working approach so please speak to your recruiter to discuss in more detail, including days in the office and at home. You will be required to be working in our Bexhill/London office at least 8 times a month.
- Competitive Bonus Scheme (subject to company and personal performance)
- Healthcare cash plan
- Pension matched up to 10%
- Free Mortgage Advice
- Access to the Thrive mental health app
- Colleague assistance programme
- 25 days annual leave and social events throughout the year
Our 4Cs principles are simple: we believe by creating the right culture for our colleagues and giving them the right tools to do their job, we’ll deliver good outcomes for every customer, helping us to grow the company profitably and sustainably and allowing us to invest in the communities we serve.
We deliver good outcomes for our customers every time by providing great products at the right price with our simple and straightforward service. We treat customers like we want to be treated - fairly, respectfully and with their best interests at heart.
Hastings Group is an equal opportunities employer which means we treat people fairly. We welcome applications from all suitably skilled persons regardless of their gender, age, race, disability, ethnic background, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or marital/family status. Please also note that we have a thorough referencing process, which includes credit and criminal record checks.
At Hastings Direct, we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, or throughout your journey with us at Hastings, we encourage you to be open with us. Our recruitment team is here to provide the support you need to ensure a fair and accessible experience for all.
