Finance Business Partner Apprentice

Introduction

DB Cargo UK is currently recruiting a Finance Business Partner Apprentice (internally known as an Operational Controller Apprentice), based at our Head Office in Doncaster.

As an Operational Controller Apprentice, you will gain hands-on experience by supporting the Senior Operational Controller in providing financial analysis and guidance that supports informed decision-making across the Sales and Production functions.

This role bridges the gap between financial data and day-to-day operations, giving you a strong, practical understanding of how a business manages profitability, cost control and operational efficiency.

Your accountabilities will be developed through structured on-the-job training alongside formal study, enabling you to support the business with informed decision-making and contribute to the maximisation of profits.

This apprenticeship will run for 18 – 24 months during which you will work towards an AAT Level 3 Diploma in Accounting, or above.

What will you be doing?

As an Operational Controller Apprentice, you will gain exposure across a wide range of finance and operational activities, including:

Financial Reporting & Analysis: Assist in the preparation of weekly and monthly financial reports for the Sales and Production teams. Support reporting on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and operational performance metrics.

Budgeting & Forecasting Support: Support operational managers during the annual budgeting process. Assist with the preparation and maintenance of monthly financial forecasts.

Variance Analysis: Learn to investigate and explain variances between actual performance and budgeted or forecasted results.

Cost Control: Monitor and report on departmental expenditure within the production environment. Identify potential cost-saving opportunities and ensure spend aligns with financial policies.

Sales & Margin Insights: Support the sales function by providing data analysis on product profitability, pricing models and the financial impact of sales initiatives.

Data Management: Ensure accurate entry, maintenance and reconciliation of financial data within ERP and accounting systems.

Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve finance and operational processes, making recommendations to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Business Partnering: Act as a point of contact for finance-related queries from non-financial colleagues. Translate financial information into clear, understandable insights to support operational decision-making.

Audit Support: Assist with internal and external audit requests, ensuring documentation and records are accurate, complete and compliant.

What are we looking for?

To be eligible for the apprenticeship you will need to hold GCSE’s in Maths and English at Grade 4/C and AAT Level 2 or equivalent.

We’re looking for someone who is keen to learn, enjoys working with numbers and is motivated to develop a career in finance within an operational environment.

You’ll be a strong team player with a positive and flexible approach to work, able to manage your time effectively and meet deadlines in a fast-paced business.

Good numerical and analytical skills, with strong attention to detail

Clear and confident communication skills, both written and verbal

The ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues at all levels

Good IT skills, including competence in Microsoft Excel and Word, with a willingness to learn new systems such as ERP software.

A proactive, enthusiastic and self-motivated approach, with a genuine commitment to learning and development

What matters to you?

Here at DB Cargo we offer range of benefits as part of your employment. These will include:

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Hybrid working between our locations and your home, this is mutually agreeable between the business and employee.

Free on-site parking

EV charging at selected sites

Health Cash Plan Available

Manager led recognition programme for employees who live our values

Access to DB Learning world

Access to our employee benefits portal where you can take advantage of discounts for a variety of shops and services as well as accessing our wellbeing content

We take the health and wellbeing of all employees seriously and provide access to an Employee Assistance Programme