We’re looking for a commercially minded Financial Controller or Finance Operations Manager to take ownership of the studio’s financial engine. Following rapid growth, we’re now looking for a Finance & Operations Manager to take full ownership of the studio’s financial operations. In tandem with our fractional FD, you’ll provide structure, visibility and control across the studio’s finances, working with the leadership team to help make smart, data‑based decisions at pace. This is a hands‑on role. You’ll be close to projects, producers, and commercial leads. Concept80 is a fast‑growing studio establishing itself on the global stage. You’ll be building foundations that set the company up for accelerated growth both in the UK and abroad, with opportunities to rapidly progress your career with us. We set the bar high for ourselves creatively, and that expectation reaches beyond into the business behind the studio. If the opportunity to build a razor‑sharp operation excites you, you’re one of us.
Key Responsibilities
- Project & Production Finance
- Work with production teams to build commercially strong projects
- Track budgets, costs and margins across live productions
- Own WIP reporting and revenue recognition
- Drive visibility of profitability at project and client level
- Financial Reporting & Forecasting
- Oversee financial operations including AP, AR, reconciliations and payroll
- Prepare monthly management accounts – clear P&L, cashflow and margin reporting
- Lead budgeting, re‑forecasting and scenario modelling
- Support leadership with data‑led decision making
- Cashflow & Working Capital
- Own invoicing, credit control and supplier payments
- Manage weekly and monthly cashflow forecasting
- Systems & Processes
- Improve and streamline core finance systems – Xero, Pleo, Apron and Slack Workflows
- Build dashboards and reporting tools the team actually use
- Collaborate using Claude Code/Codex to develop and maintain proprietary tools
- Key systems: Xero (UK & US), Pleo, Apron, Datamolino, G Accon, Paycircle, Gsheets, Excel, Slack, Claude Code, Codex, Claude.ai
- Work closely with the fractional FD to evolve financial infrastructure
- US Entity Support
- Work alongside our US‑based accountants to support the US entity
- Coordinate across both UK and US Xero accounts
- Ensure consistency in reporting and financial processes across both entities
About You
You’re an experienced finance operator ready to make a real impact inside an entrepreneurial business. You’ve built structure where it was lacking, improved visibility where it was unclear and introduced financial discipline without slowing velocity. You understand that in a project‑led business, control isn’t about restriction, it’s about clarity.
You Will Bring
- ACA / ACCA / CIMA qualified (or qualified by experience)
- 5+ years in an agency, production, sports or media business
- Experience in a scaling startup beneficial
- Strong grasp of revenue recognition, WIP and margin control
- Comfortable owning full management accounts and forecasting cycles
- Experience improving finance systems and operational processes
- Familiarity with US or international markets, ideally within group structures
- Confident partnering with founders and commercial leads
Our Culture
Concept80 runs on momentum. We’re a team of makers and storytellers who believe the difference is in the detail. We care deeply about the output, but just as much about how the business operates behind it. Standards are high. Conversations are direct. Everyone knows what they’re accountable for. We back each other, we challenge each other, and we don’t hide from hard decisions. We find a way to deliver the exceptional against the odds, rising to every challenge, laying the path for those that choose to follow. We’re at our best when we’re moving and owning what’s in front of us.
Package & Benefits
- Competitive salary, reflective of experience
- Full‑time role, UK‑based, at our head office in Old Street
- Hybrid working model built on trust and responsibility
- US travel fully covered if required
- Complete equipment setup to ensure you’re ready from day one
About Concept80
Concept80 is a globally operating creative production studio producing world‑class content for some of the most influential brands in sport and entertainment, including Formula 1, NASCAR, Nike, Red Bull and Alpine F1 to name just a few. We specialise in high‑impact filmmaking, from broadcast TV and launch films to social‑first, always‑on content. Our work sits at the intersection of sport and culture, delivering engaging creative that connects. Concept80 is lean, creatively fearless and fast‑moving. We empower our people to thrive at the forefront of their craft, collectively raising the benchmark for our clients and competitors. This role sits at the heart of that ambition.
Financial Operations Manager in City of London employer: Concept80
At Concept80, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that empowers our employees to take ownership of their projects. As an End-to-End Live Production Lead, you will benefit from our commitment to professional growth, with opportunities for skill development and career advancement in the vibrant world of live events. Located in a creative hub, our team enjoys a culture that values innovation, teamwork, and the thrill of delivering exceptional productions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Operations Manager in City of London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Concept80. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Concept80.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Concept80's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Concept80
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Concept80.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Concept80 will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Concept80 employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
