At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial control and compliance for a growing international group.
- Company: Join London Marathon Events, inspiring activity and raising millions for charities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team that values inclusion and wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial organisation while shaping finance strategies.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with strong technical skills and experience in financial management.
The predicted salary is between 66150 - 80850 £ per year.
Description
About us
London Marathon Events (part of the London Marathon Group) works to inspire, champion and increase activity in all ages, abilities and demographics.
We do this through our successful event portfolio (which includes the TCS London Marathon and TCS Mini London Marathon, Brighton Marathon, The Big Half, Vitality London 10,000, Vitality Westminster Mile, Standard Chartered Great City Race and Swim Serpentine), through our extensive outreach programmes working with schools and community groups in London and across the UK and through our network of wholly owned or partially owned companies, such as Maverick, Run 4 Wales, Loch Ness Marathon Ltd, Caledonian Concepts, Athletic Ventures and Friday Night Lights
Our events raise millions for charities every year to improve the lives of individuals and communities and we passionately believe in the power of sport.
Our values are integral to who we are, how we work and what we do
Caring - We value each other, our customers and the positive impact we make
Curious - We open our minds to new ideas, perspectives and ways of working
Exceptional - We strive to be the best and to redefine the art of the possible
Fun - We create joy, happiness and memories that last a lifetime
Diversity, inclusion and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do, and we want to ensure they are at the heart of our company.
We strongly value diversity within our workforce and recognise that different people bring different perspectives, lived experience, ideas and culture to the company.
This difference brings with it great strengths, including diversity of thought.
So, if you’re ready to be a force for good, lead change and want to make a difference to society, keep reading.
For successful candidates the offer of employment is subject to satisfactory Disclosure and Baring Service (DBS) clearance.
The Role
We are looking for an outstanding Group Finance Controller to take responsibility of financial control, group consolidation and statutory compliance across an increasingly international and growing group portfolio.
This is a hands-on role for a technically strong qualified accountant (ideally ACA/CA) who enjoys combining rigorous financial discipline with the pace and variety of a fast-moving entrepreneurial organisation.
As London Marathon Events continues to grow through acquisitions, new ventures and international expansion, you will be at the heart of the journey.
Working closely with the Group Head of Finance, you will help integrate new entities, establish scalable financial processes and controls, and provide the technical expertise needed to navigate complex consolidation, tax and regulatory matters across multiple jurisdictions.
This is a rare opportunity to apply first-class financial skills in a business that delivers some of the world's most iconic participation events.
The role offers exposure to senior leadership, strategic projects and the opportunity to shape how the finance function evolves as the group continues to scale.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage group consolidation across all group entities, including majority-owned subsidiaries, joint ventures and minority equity holdings.
- Lead statutory and management accounts preparation, ensuring consistent, controlled financial reporting across UK and international entities.
- Day to day management of the Group month-end and year-end close process, with a focus on accuracy, timeliness and audit-readiness.
- Responsible for the management of the external audit process, from planning to completion.
Ensuring audit timelines are adhered to, audit requests are responded to, and driving the completion of the front end of the Group accounts.
- Manage the Group tax affairs, ensuring compliance whilst also identifying any efficiencies.
- Provide technical accounting judgement on complex or first-time transactions (e. g. business combinations, JV accounting, revenue recognition for multi-year event contracts).
- Support cross-border tax matters as the group expands internationally, including:
- Transfer pricing policy and documentation across intercompany arrangements (management recharges, royalties, service agreements)
- Withholding tax and treaty positions (e. g. US/UK) on profit repatriation routes
- Coordination with external tax and legal advisers on new entity structuring (e. g. US 501(c)(3) and C-Corp entities)
- Maintain and strengthen the group's financial control environment as new entities and structures are onboarded post-acquisition.
- Supporting Finance Leadership team (Group CFO, FD, Group Head of Finance) with technical M&A financial due diligence and post-deal integration, including opening balance sheets and accounting policy alignment.
- Own key balance sheet reconciliations, intercompany eliminations and FX translation for group reporting.
- Contribute technical input to board and ELT papers on accounting, tax and structuring matters.
- Work with Senior Fin Ops manager on creating efficiencies across existing processes, utilising technology where possible.
- Support with the management of Group bank accounts.
- Support with the Group Insurance requirements.
- Supporting wider finance team on an ad hoc basis.
Skills & Experience
Experience
- Strong technical accounting knowledge (UK GAAP and/or IFRS).
- Working knowledge of transfer pricing principles and withholding tax/treaty positions.
- Comfortable operating without heavy process — happy to build structure rather than simply follow it.
- Provides order in complex and fast moving environments.
- Strong Excel skills; experience with consolidation or reporting tools is a plus.
- Clear, concise communicator, confident presenting technical matters to non-finance stakeholders.
- Strong people management skills, able to develop and set standards for a small team.
Skills
- Experience supporting senior leaders in fast-paced environments,
- Highly organised with strong prioritisation instincts
- Analytical thinker—able to break down complex problems quickly
- Comfortable “in the weeds” but able to zoom out to strategic context
- Strong communication skills (clear, concise, structured)
- Comfortable being pushed and working at pace
- Strong team player
Group Finance Controller employer: London Marathon Group
London Marathon Events is an exceptional employer that champions diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing, creating a vibrant work culture where every team member can thrive. With a focus on meaningful community engagement and the power of sport, employees have the opportunity to contribute to impactful outreach programmes while enjoying professional growth through collaborative projects and innovative initiatives. Located in the heart of London, this role offers a unique chance to be part of a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Finance Controller
✨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 London Marathon Group. 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.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Finance Controller
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 London Marathon Group.
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 London Marathon Group'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 London Marathon Group
✨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 London Marathon Group.
✨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 London Marathon Group 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 London Marathon Group 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.
