At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive financial performance and support strategic goals across functions.
- Company: Join a leading entertainment company with a focus on guest experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days holiday, Merlin Magic Pass, and ongoing training opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Be a strategic advisor and influence the direction of a global company.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in finance, with strong business partnering and analysis skills.
The predicted salary is between 58500 - 71500 £ per year.
What you'll bring to the team
Location: Poole, Basingstoke, London/Hybrid
Hours: 37.5 hours per week
Contract: FTC - Late 2026 End Date
The Finance Business Partner for Legal, Executive and Management Contracts is a strategic role, responsible for partnering with senior business leaders across functions to drive financial performance and support the company's growth and strategic goals. This role involves oversight of financial analysis, business insights, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial decision-making within functions. The role is key in providing actionable financial advice to business leaders, ensuring optimal resource allocation, and influencing the strategic direction of the company’s operations in Legal, Executive and Management contract areas as well as other corporate entities.
As a Finance function at Merlin, we take immense pride in how we work with our colleagues to help deliver the business’ strategic goals and ultimately a great guest experience. This role embodies the essence of business partnering and will be a critical enabler of success for our business.
Strategic Financial Leadership
- Support in the creation and execution of a finance strategy tailored to the supported functions, aligning with Merlin’s broader business goals, focusing on financial performance, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term strategic planning.
- Act as a strategic advisor to leadership across functions, providing insights on financial performance, business planning, opportunities, and organisational development.
- Collaborate with budget holders across central functions, ensuring that finance initiatives are tailored to meet business needs while maintaining alignment with overall corporate objectives.
Financial Planning & Analysis
- Support in the creation of financial models and forecasts, providing accurate and timely financial insights to guide strategic decision-making.
- Lead the budgeting process for functions, ensuring alignment with business goals and providing recommendations on cost optimisation and resource allocation.
- Provide deep analysis of financial performance, highlighting key drivers, risks, and opportunities to improve profitability.
Operational Excellence
- Preparation of timely and accurate financial reports, presenting insights to business leaders and stakeholders, and advising on any financial implications or actions needed.
- Develop and track key financial performance metrics to monitor and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations.
Risk and Compliance Management
- Identify and manage financial risks within functions, ensuring compliance with local regulations, corporate governance standards, and industry best practices.
- Ensure that financial controls and processes are optimised and aligned with regional and global policies.
Finance Partners
- Collaborate with regional finance teams to ensure consistency in financial practices, have knowledge in spend drivers and ensure alignment on functional planning in regions.
- Work closely with Finance Hub & Group Financial Accounts on matters such as month end, accounting treatments and balance sheet.
- Address complex financial queries and concerns raised by senior business leaders and operational teams.
Qualifications & Experience
- Typically, 8+ years of experience in finance roles, with at least 3-5 years in a financial leadership position.
- Proven experience in business partnering, financial analysis, and strategic planning, particularly within a large, multinational company.
- Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., ACCA, CPA) preferred.
Benefits
- Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
- 33 days holiday (including bank holidays)
- Company bonus
- Private pension scheme
- 40% discount online off LEGO
- 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
- Ongoing training and development opportunities
- Plus, many more…
If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Pay Range: Competitive
Finance Business Partner - Legal, Exec & SPD in London employer: Merlin
Merlin offers a vibrant work environment at Warwick Castle, where you can immerse yourself in history while engaging with guests and creating unforgettable experiences. With flexible shifts, competitive benefits, and opportunities for personal growth, this role is perfect for those who thrive in a dynamic setting and are passionate about customer service. Join us to be part of a team that values creativity, teamwork, and the joy of making every visitor's day special.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Business Partner - Legal, Exec & SPD in 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 Merlin. 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 Finance Business Partner - Legal, Exec & SPD in London
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 Merlin.
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 Merlin'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 Merlin
✨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 Merlin.
✨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 Merlin 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 Merlin 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.
