At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and drive operational efficiency in a dynamic sports and entertainment environment.
- Company: Join Aramark, a leader in hospitality and event experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, discounts, and access to mental health support.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for career growth and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Shape financial direction while creating memorable experiences in exciting venues.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with senior finance leadership experience in high-volume environments.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic, commercially minded finance leader with a passion for delivering excellence in fast paced, high-profile environments? Aramark’s Sports & Entertainment (S&E) sector is seeking an exceptional Finance Director to guide financial strategy, strengthen commercial performance, and partner with operational leaders across some of the most exciting venues in the industry. As the business continues its strong growth trajectory, this role will play a pivotal part in shaping financial direction, driving operational efficiency, and ensuring the sector remains competitive, innovative, and financially robust.
Reporting to the CFO and acting as a key copilot to the S&E MD, you will influence decision making at the highest level while leading a talented finance team to deliver insight, rigour, and continuous improvement. This is a unique opportunity to combine strategic leadership with hands on impact across event and non-event trading helping to create memorable hospitality experiences while delivering long term value. This is a permanent, hybrid role with a UK remit.
What's in it for you:
- Competitive salary and package
- Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra
- Defined contribution pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Benefits app: access to 100s of discounts, online GP appointments, mental health support and our Employee Assistance Program
- Opportunities to attend in-house events and try the culinary genius of our teams
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development and execution of the financial strategy for the UK S&E sector
- Provide strategic insight and challenge to the leadership team to support informed, data‑driven decisions
- Oversee financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting across multisite, multi‑client operations
- Ensure strong financial governance, internal controls, and compliance with accounting standards and processes
- Manage cashflow, working capital, and capital expenditure while reporting into the UK Group
- Analyse trading performance across events and non-event days to identify opportunities for revenue and margin growth
- Support pricing strategy, yield optimisation, and menu engineering for hospitality offerings
- Partner with operational leaders to drive cost control, labour planning, procurement efficiency, and stock management
- Act as a trusted advisor to the S&E MD and sector leadership, providing clear and actionable financial insight
- Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team, fostering capability, accountability, and continuous improvement
Key Requirements:
- Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA) with substantial post‑qualification experience
- Senior finance leadership experience within a high volume hospitality, stadium catering, sports, or large scale events environment
- Strong understanding of cost control, labour management, and food & beverage profitability
- Experience working with contract based commercial models such as concessions, revenue share, or joint ventures
- An influential communicator and presenter who is commercially astute, analytical, pragmatic, and effective under pressure
- Demonstrates high integrity, strong governance mindset, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service while partnering closely with operational teams
If you are applying for this role and you already work for Aramark, you must notify your line manager before submitting your application. At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive. As a proud Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey. We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any accommodations or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – careers@aramark.co.uk
Join us in fostering a workplace where everyone can achieve their full potential. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.
Finance Director- Sports & Entertainment employer: Aramark UK
Aramark UK is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that values creativity and teamwork in the heart of Greater London. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees are encouraged to develop their culinary skills while working alongside passionate professionals in a dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a company that prioritises excellence and innovation in the culinary arts.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director- Sports & Entertainment
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and sports sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers or colleagues. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Aramark and its S&E sector thoroughly. Understand their financial strategies and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Show them you’re not just another candidate!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates directly from us. Let’s get you that Finance Director position!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director- Sports & Entertainment
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Finance Director role. Highlight your strategic leadership and financial expertise, especially in high-volume environments like hospitality or sports.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to analyse trading performance and drive operational efficiency. We want to see examples of how you've used data to make informed decisions in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can ensure your application gets the attention it deserves and you can stay updated on your application status.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aramark UK
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics relevant to the sports and entertainment sector, such as cash flow management and profitability analysis. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive decision-making in previous roles.
✨Showcase Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples that highlight your strategic leadership skills. Think about times when you've influenced financial strategy or improved operational efficiency. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and make them impactful.
✨Understand the Business Landscape
Familiarise yourself with Aramark’s Sports & Entertainment sector and its competitive landscape. Research recent trends in hospitality and event management, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their growth and innovation. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Engage with Operational Leaders
Since this role involves partnering with operational leaders, think about how you can foster collaboration. Prepare questions that show your understanding of their challenges and how finance can support their goals. This will demonstrate your ability to be a trusted advisor and team player.
