Financial Controller
About the role
We are looking for a highly capable and proactive Financial Controller (FC) to lead the financial accounting function at BAFTA.
Reporting to the Executive Director of Finance, Business Affairs & Information (FD), this is a pivotal leadership role responsible for:
- The integrity of BAFTA’s financial reporting and control environment
- Delivery of statutory accounts and audit
- Oversight of core accounting processes across the group
- Development of robust financial systems, policies and controls
The FC will play a central role in shaping and continuously improving BAFTA’s finance function during a period of growth and change.
Alongside core financial control responsibilities, the role will lead key finance transformation projects — modernising systems, improving reporting capabilities, and ensuring the finance function can meet increasing organisational and stakeholder demands.
Working closely with the FD, Senior Management Accountant, FP&A team, and wider organisation, the FC will ensure that financial data is accurate, timely, and supports effective decision-making across BAFTA’s diverse activities.
This role requires a strong technical accountant with a questioning mindset, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to balance operational delivery with strategic improvement.
- How BAFTA gives you the red carpet experience
- A salary of circa £65,000 per year
- Holiday - 29 days a year plus bank holidays
- Employee health cash-back plan
- Long-term sickness insurance
- Life assurance - four times your annual basic salary
- Employee Assistance Programme - 24/7 confidential access to expert services including counselling, wellbeing, and independent legal and financial advice
- Cycle 2 Work Scheme & season ticket loan
- Access to cinemas throughout the UK and to BAFTA events
Who you are?
- Fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant post-qualification experience, typically 3–5 years or more.
- Significant experience in financial accounting and control roles
- Proven experience delivering statutory accounts and managing audits
- Strong technical accounting knowledge across a wide range of areas
- Existing knowledge of FRS102 and Charity SORP desirable but not essential
- Experience managing and developing finance teams
- Experience improving financial processes, systems and controls
- Strong systems expertise and advanced Excel skills
- Curious mind to continuously improve processes
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Your tasks
Lead financial accounting, oversee audits, and improve financial systems at BAFTA.
Your profile
Fully qualified accountant with 3-5 years of experience in financial roles.
What's also included
Competitive salary, generous holiday, health cash-back plan, and access to exclusive events.
Tech stack & ways of working
Financial Controller employer: BAFTA
BAFTA is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic work environment where creativity and finance intersect. With a commitment to employee wellbeing, BAFTA provides generous benefits including a competitive salary, extensive holiday allowance, and access to unique cultural events, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovation. As a Financial Controller, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of BAFTA's finance function, making this an exciting opportunity for those looking to make a meaningful impact in a prestigious organisation.
Your perspectives
Shape BAFTA's finance function during exciting growth and transformation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Tip Number 1: Tap Into Professional Networks
The finance world loves a good connection, so jump into industry-specific groups on platforms like LinkedIn where you can find discussions on financial controlling. Engaging in these communities can expose you to hidden job leads that aren't openly advertised!
Tip Number 2: Attend Finance Events and Conferences
Make it a mission to attend finance-related events and conferences, even virtual ones! This is a golden opportunity to network face-to-face with people from companies like BAFTA. You never know who might be your next boss or a crucial contact!
Tip Number 3: Showcase Your Expertise
Consider writing articles or sharing insights related to financial controlling or industry trends. Publish these on platforms like LinkedIn to establish yourself as a knowledgeable player in the field. This not only increases your visibility but also catches the attention of recruiters from BAFTA.
Tip Number 4: Apply Directly on Company Websites
Since you're going for a full-time gig, don't forget to keep an eye on the careers page of companies you're interested in, like BAFTA. Many companies prefer candidates who apply through their website as it shows genuine interest and makes your application stand out!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers Game
In financial controlling, detail is everything! Make sure your CV showcases your proficiency with numbers—highlight any relevant experience in budgeting, forecasting, or working with financial software. Quantifying your past achievements will make you stand out, so don’t be shy about flaunting those impressive percentages or cost savings you've implemented.
Tailored Cover Letter is Key
Your cover letter is a chance to shine, especially for a full-time role. Use it to express your genuine interest in BAFTA and the specific impact you hope to make in financial controlling. Mention any relevant qualifications or experiences that align with the company’s goals, and don’t forget to show that you're ready for a long-term commitment!
Certifications Matter
List relevant certifications such as ACCA or CIMA on your CV. These qualifications not only showcase your dedication to the field but also your technical competence in financial principles. If you have any ongoing training or courses, make sure to mention those as well to demonstrate your commitment to continual learning in financial controlling.
Don’t Overlook Soft Skills
While numbers are crucial, so are those soft skills! Financial controllers need strong communication and analytical reasoning abilities. We recommend embedding examples of these skills in your CV and cover letter, like how you’ve successfully delivered financial reports to stakeholders or collaborated with teams to improve processes. Let’s show BAFTA how you can be a team player!
How to prepare for a job interview at BAFTA
Brush Up on Technical Skills
Make sure you're comfortable with key financial concepts, especially around forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis. Sometimes, interviewers may throw in technical questions or case studies, so practicing these types of scenarios will help you shine!
Showcase Your Financial Acumen
If you've had experience with specific financial software like SAP or Oracle, make it known! Be ready to discuss how you used these tools to improve processes or reporting, as this hands-on knowledge can really set you apart in a full-time role with BAFTA.
Know Your Numbers
In full-time interviews, especially in financial controlling, be prepared for numerical reasoning tests or questions. Brush up on your mental maths and understand how to interpret and analyse financial statements on the spot, as this may come up during the assessment.
Connect with Company Goals
Familiarise yourself with BAFTA's financial objectives and any recent developments. During the interview, try to weave your understanding of their business model and challenges into your answers—this shows your genuine interest and alignment with their goals!
