At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a global finance team and drive financial strategy in live entertainment.
- Company: Join a world-renowned leader in Live Entertainment and Performing Arts.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of high-profile projects and make a real impact in the creative industry.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified accountant with senior finance experience in Entertainment or Media.
- Other info: We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds to promote equality and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Job Description
Handle Recruitment are proud to be partnering with a world-renowned leader in Live Entertainment, Performing Arts and Artist Management in their search for a Finance Director.
Looking after the international finance operations across the UK, US, France, and Germany, the successful candidate will manage and develop a talented finance team leading financial strategy, system transformation, and partner closely with the executive leadership team to drive performance and sustainable growth.
Beginning with a system implementation project, keyresponsibilities will include but not be limited to the below Strategic & Financial duties:
- Lead and develop a global finance team
- Embed financial thinking into operational decision-making across all divisions
- Deliver strategic insights to the COO and senior leadership
- Partner with the Executive Director and Owner on major business decisions
- Provide financial leadership on high-profile projects and new ventures
Financial Operations & Reporting
- Own month-end and quarter-end close processes
- Lead group consolidation and multi-territory reporting
- Deliver insightful management reporting and cashflow oversight
- Oversee budget planning and financial modelling for growth areas
- Champion profitability across UK orchestral touring and US attractions
- Ensure accurate reconciliation, JV reporting, and client account payouts
Systems Transformation
- Drive process redesign to boost accuracy, efficiency, and risk management
- Champion system adoption, team training, and continuous improvement
Compliance & Tax
- Oversee statutory accounts and external year-end reviews
- Ensure compliance with financial regulations across all territories
- Manage global VAT and corporate tax matters
The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant ACA/ACCA/CIMA and have strong, hands-on experience within a senior finance position within Entertainment or Media and:
- Have strong leadership across international, cross-functional teams
- Be proactive and detail-oriented with a hands-on mindset
- Experience in system implementations (ERP transition experience a plus) *
- Familiarity with Microsoft Great Plains (nice to have)
- Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Background in the creative industries or performing arts is highly desirable
- Deep knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP
Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds – we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Financial Director - Live Entertainments employer: Handle Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Handle Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Director - Live Entertainments
✨Tip Number 1
Network within the live entertainment and performing arts sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or conferences where you can meet professionals already working in finance roles. Building relationships with these individuals can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the financial systems commonly used in the entertainment industry, particularly ERP systems like Microsoft Great Plains. If you have experience with similar systems, be prepared to discuss how you can leverage that knowledge to drive system transformation in your new role.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your understanding of international finance operations by researching the financial regulations and practices in the UK, US, France, and Germany. Being able to speak confidently about these differences during interviews will show your readiness for a global finance role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your leadership skills by gathering examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams in the past. Highlight specific projects where your financial insights contributed to strategic decisions, as this will resonate well with the executive leadership team.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Director - Live Entertainments
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in finance, particularly within the entertainment or media sectors. Emphasise your leadership roles and any system implementation projects you've managed.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for live entertainment and how your skills align with the company's goals. Mention specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to lead financial strategy and drive performance.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as ACA/ACCA/CIMA, and any additional certifications that may be relevant. Include your experience with financial regulations and compliance across different territories.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role requires excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with executive teams or led cross-functional initiatives in your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Handle Recruitment
✨Research the Company and Industry
Before your interview, make sure to thoroughly research the company and the live entertainment industry. Understand their recent projects, financial performance, and any challenges they may be facing. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
As a Financial Director, you can expect technical questions related to financial reporting, compliance, and strategic financial management. Brush up on IFRS, UK GAAP, and any relevant tax regulations. Be ready to discuss your experience with system implementations and how you've driven financial strategy in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing international teams. Prepare examples of how you've developed talent, fostered collaboration, and led teams through challenging projects. This will demonstrate your ability to lead the finance team effectively in a global context.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask thoughtful questions that show your strategic thinking. Inquire about the company's future financial goals, challenges they face in the live entertainment sector, or how they measure success in financial operations. This not only shows your interest but also your proactive approach to understanding the role.