Finance Graduate

As a Finance Graduate at Hastings Deering, you will engage in various essential responsibilities within the finance function. Your duties will include participating in finance operations, commercial planning activities, shared services management, fixed asset handling, budgeting, and taxation. You'll also work closely on real projects, developing your skills while contributing to successful business outcomes, and getting exposure to the prestigious Caterpillar brand.

To be eligible for the Finance Graduate role at Hastings Deering, candidates should hold or be on track to obtain a university degree in Business with a major in Finance or Commerce. Additionally, applicants are expected to be recent graduates, having completed their degree within the last three years, or be set to graduate by 2025, along with holding citizenship or permanent residency in Australia.

The recruitment process for the Finance Graduate position at Hastings Deering comprises multiple stages. Initially, shortlisted candidates will complete a video interview with our talent acquisition team. Those who excel in this round will then be invited to an engagement center for additional assessments and a formal interview. Finalists will have the opportunity to connect with other graduates and program sponsors in May 2025, paving the way for a rewarding finance career.

Graduates entering Hastings Deering’s Finance Graduate program can anticipate a host of benefits, including permanent placement post-program, a competitive remuneration package, and extensive training and support. Graduates will also access our Employee Assistance Program to support their well-being, along with various discounts on private health, vehicles, travel, and retail. We truly value our graduates and strive to foster an inclusive culture that promotes flexibility and growth.

Key skill sets sought for the Finance Graduate role at Hastings Deering include robust communication abilities, a strong focus on customer service, and excellent problem-solving skills. Being an effective team player is crucial, as collaboration is inherent in our work culture. Moreover, organizational skills will help you thrive within the fast-paced financial environment, ensuring project deadlines are met while maintaining high-quality outputs.

In answering this question, share a specific situation where you successfully navigated a difficult challenge by leveraging your analytical reasoning or team collaboration. Focus on the steps you took to assess the situation and the outcome that resulted from your intervention, highlighting how this directly relates to the problem-solving skills needed for the Finance Graduate position.

Express your genuine passion for finance by discussing aspects such as data analysis, financial modeling, or the impact of financial decisions on overall business strategy. Relate these interests to Hastings Deering's focus on innovation and excellence in the finance sector, showcasing how your aspirations align with the company’s goals.

When responding to this question, illustrate your organizational skills by outlining your approach to prioritizing various projects effectively. Mention tools you use, such as to-do lists or digital project management apps, and highlight your ability to remain flexible and adjust priorities based on changing circumstances or deadlines, a key asset for a Finance Graduate.

Articulate your knowledge and enthusiasm for Hastings Deering by discussing the company's reputation within the industry and your admiration for its commitment to excellence. You might mention the unique opportunities provided by the graduate program, such as the exposure to diverse finance functions and the emphasis on personal development and mentorship, making it an ideal environment for early career growth.

Demonstrate your teamwork skills by providing a specific example of a past project where collaboration was key to achieving goals. Highlight your role in the group dynamic, how you contributed positively, and any challenges faced as a team. This showcases your ability to thrive as a team player, an essential quality for a Finance Graduate at Hastings Deering.

To answer this question, discuss your methods for ongoing education, such as subscribing to finance journals, attending workshops/webinars, or participating in discussions with peers. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and staying informed about industry trends, which are valuable for a career in finance, especially at a dynamic company like Hastings Deering.

In your response, underscore the importance of collaboration and open communication. Provide an example of a time you encountered a disagreement, and explain how you approached the situation by focusing on resolving the misunderstanding while maintaining respect and professionalism, crucial skills for any finance role.

Outline your aspirations in the finance field by discussing your desire to develop expertise in specific areas such as strategic finance, financial analysis, or investment management. Connect these ambitions to what Hastings Deering and the finance graduate program offer, thereby demonstrating that your goals align with the company's future direction.

To effectively respond, explain your methodology, starting from the preliminary review to identify key metrics, followed by a deeper dive into trends, variances, and projections. This showcases your analytical skills and understanding of financial concepts, both essential for a Finance Graduate role at Hastings Deering.

Express your eagerness to contribute to Hastings Deering by highlighting your fresh perspective, innovative ideas, and the academic knowledge you will bring. Discuss how your adaptability and enthusiasm will enhance team dynamics and support the company's drive for excellence in finance functions.