At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and ensure compliance with internal controls and reporting standards.
- Company: Join Pernod Ricard, a global leader in wines and spirits with a diverse portfolio.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a passionate team driving innovation in the spirits industry.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a prestigious company while managing key financial processes.
- Qualifications: Qualified finance professional with leadership experience in financial reporting and compliance.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Job Type: Fixed Term Contract (Maternity cover starting end of August/ Sept 2026)
Location: Chiswick, London
Reporting Line: Finance & Operations Director
We are Pernod Ricard, a leading company in the global wines and spirits industry with over 18,000 employees globally. We own 16 of the world’s top 100 Spirits Brands and hold one of the most prestigious and comprehensive brand portfolios in the industry with 240 premium brands available in over 160 countries.
This position sits in our Pernod Ricard UK (PRUK) business responsible for marketing, selling and distributing our products in the UK. Our diverse population of 250+ passionate employees have been creating conviviality since 2001, bringing our premium brands and unforgettable experiences to the UK. As the world’s 2nd largest spirits market, the UK is a key location for our company.
About the role
We are now seeking a Financial Services Director (1 year Maternity Cover) to report to the Finance & Operations Director. Within this role, you will manage the company’s financial accounting, reporting and working capital, ensuring the company operates with structured but efficient processes complying with Pernod Ricard financial calendar & internal control / risk management rules, International Accounting Standard, as well as UK legislation.
In addition, you will support the company strategic agenda through internal & Group exercise / technology / operating model evolution roadmap, either directly on projects in the Finance / Operations area or indirectly in the wider company roadmap definition & support in other projects.
What's involved?
- Management of core financial processes and systems:
- Accounts payable and receivables, including oversight of outsourced team (QX).
- Credit control and factoring.
- Balance sheet and P&L reporting (statutory and below PRO).
- Day to day management of core systems and related transformation projects to meet changing business requirements.
- Working capital / cashflow management:
- Manage cashflow and deliver cash targets for the Group.
- Drive cashflow improvements and help build a cash culture in the business.
- Management of treasury and banking processes.
- Compliance, governance and internal control:
- Take responsibility for the compliance of PR UK with internal & external jurisdiction: Group internal audit, external financial auditors, tax / HMRC, risk management, quality & security (ISO), assets protection & securisation rules.
- Management of external audit relationship.
- Ensure robust internal controls in place to protect company assets and to mitigate against fraud and other risks and maintain business processes and policies.
- Ensure the existence of clear & documented business processes covering financial, operational & key business processes, including clear & shared DoA rules.
- Delivery of LSF (French Financial Security Law) and SAPIN II (Internal Control) and follow up on remediation plans.
- Leadership and development of team and wider finance function through line management and training.
Your skills and experience
- Qualified finance professional (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with senior leadership experience managing mid-size teams (~5+ people), preferably in W&S industry or Multinational FMCG.
- Strong expertise in financial reporting (particularly Cash and Balance sheet) and compliance to all applicable UK and international standards (accounting / IFRS, internal control requirements & UK law).
- Proven track record in financial control, governance, audit, and risk management frameworks (preferably with knowledge of French financial security law and SAPIN II but not a must).
- Experience leading a team during major finance transformation projects (ERP system upgrade – preferably SAP).
- Demonstrated ability to lead and keep teams highly motivated through a challenging environment / period of change.
- Highly effective stakeholder management with the ability to become a trusted advisor, influence senior leadership and broader teams in finance and other departments.
Financial Services Director in London employer: Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Chiswick, London, where employees are encouraged to thrive and grow within the global wines and spirits industry. With a strong focus on employee development, a diverse and inclusive culture, and the opportunity to work with some of the world's most prestigious brands, we provide our team with meaningful experiences and the chance to make a significant impact in a key market. Join us to be part of a passionate team that values conviviality and innovation.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Services Director in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the financial services industry, especially those who might know someone at Pernod Ricard. A friendly chat can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Pernod Ricard's values and recent projects. Show us you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your leadership style and how you've managed teams through change. We want to hear about your successes and how you can bring that energy to the Financial Services Director role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Pernod Ricard family.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Services Director in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Financial Services Director role. Highlight your relevant experience in financial reporting, compliance, and team leadership. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your achievements in financial management and how you can contribute to our team at Pernod Ricard.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves managing a team, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. We love seeing how you've motivated teams through change or led successful projects in the past. Let us know how you can inspire our finance function!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Pernod Ricard!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pernod Ricard
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Financial Services Director, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in financial reporting and compliance. Brush up on key financial metrics, accounting standards, and any relevant legislation like IFRS or UK law. Be ready to discuss how you've applied these in previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've led teams through change or transformation projects. Highlight your experience in motivating teams during challenging times and how you’ve developed talent within your finance function.
✨Understand the Business
Familiarise yourself with Pernod Ricard’s brand portfolio and the spirits industry. Understanding the company’s strategic agenda will help you align your answers with their goals. Show that you’re not just a numbers person but also someone who understands the broader business context.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Prepare for scenarios related to cash flow management, compliance issues, or financial audits. Think about how you would handle these situations and be ready to articulate your thought process.
