VP Production Finance

VP Production Finance

Freelance 99000 - 121000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead Production Finance for diverse scripted and non-scripted series at Universal Global Television.
  • Company: Join Universal Global Television, a leader in bold storytelling and innovative productions.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with potential for international travel and collaboration across cultures.
  • Why this job: Be a strategic partner in a fast-paced, global production environment and influence major projects.
  • Qualifications: Extensive experience in production finance and strong leadership skills required.

The predicted salary is between 99000 - 121000 £ per year.

  • Business Segment: Universal Television Entertainment
  • Company Description

Universal Global Television (UGT), a division of Universal Studio Group, partners with visionary storytellers across the globe to deliver bold, distinctive shows with universal resonance.

Led by President Beatrice Springborn, UGT’s portfolio brings together award-winning production companies Carnival Films, Heyday Television, and Working Title Television alongside leading creators including Seth Mac Farlane, Patrick Macmanus, Nick Antosca and Rachel Shukert.

Headquartered in London and Los Angeles, the studio currently produces 27 series across 14 platforms, including local linear powerhouses such as BBC (UK), ABC (Australia), CBC (Canada) and streamers Peacock, Netflix, Apple and Binge (Australia).

Its slate spans genres and territories, with titles including 'The Day of the Jackal,' ‘Downton Abbey,’ 'All Her Fault,' 'Cape Fever,' 'Ted,' ‘The Five-Star Weekend,’ and ‘The ‘Burbs.’ UGT titles have broken streaming records globally, with series regularly topping charts across the US, UK, and more than 50 other countries.

Home to ground-breaking and intentional storytelling, UGT's slate has earned recognition from the Peabody Awards, Emmy Awards, BAFTAs and Golden Globes.

UGT’s internal scripted unit develops and produces original programming and has a proven track record of co-producing, financing, and partnering with independent producers to bring ambitious projects to screen.

Partnerships include "One Day" with Drama Republic, "The Undeclared War" with Playground Entertainment, and forthcoming "The Dream Lands" with Sister Pictures.

UGT also invests in leading creative talent through its minority stake and first-look distribution deal with Canada's Lark Productions ("Law & Order

Toronto: Criminal Intent," "Allegiance").

At Universal Global Television, we are focused on our commitment to a more ambitious and inclusive future.

Our company values play a huge part in this commitment and the culture of our company.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer, and we’ll do everything we can to support you during your application.

If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, speak to our recruitment team who will be happy to support you.

Accessibility Statement | NBCUnicareers

Job Description

The Vice President, Production Finance will lead Production Finance & Accounting for a portfolio of productions within Universal Global Television, supporting a diverse slate of scripted and non-scripted series.

This role is responsible for driving operational excellence across the full financial lifecycle, from development and greenlight through delivery.

Reporting to the SVP, Production Finance, the VP will oversee freelance Production Finance Controllers across multiple international productions, and will serve as a key strategic partner to cross-functional stakeholders including Creative, Production, Business & Legal Affairs, and Corporate Finance.

The role requires strong leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to influence decision-making in a fast-paced, global production environment.

The successful candidate will bring deep expertise in production accounting along with experience operating within a corporate structure.

They will ensure best-in-class financial practices, compliance with corporate policies, and disciplined cost management across productions.

As part of a globally distributed organization, with headquarters in Los Angeles and production in London, the U.

S., and multiple other international locations (including Hungary, Australia, Spain, Canada, and Norway), this role requires exceptional communication and collaboration skills.

The VP will partner closely with U.

S.-based finance teams, particularly in Los Angeles, as well as regional production teams worldwide, navigating cultural and operational nuances effectively.

Occasional travel may be required to local and international offices.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Strategic Leadership
  • Strengthen strategic partnerships across Universal Studio Group to support and deliver on Production Slate objectives.
  • Represent Production Finance leadership in senior forums, including deputizing for the SVP in leadership and Greenlight meetings.
  • Maintain strong alignment and communication with U. S. based Production Finance and Production teams.
  • Lead and manage freelance Production Finance Controllers, ensuring consistent application of financial standards and strong performance.
  • Build and develop a high-quality pipeline of freelance Production Accounting talent aligned with NBCU practices.
  • Production Finance Strategy & Performance
  • Develop and evaluate production finance plans, including multi-episode budgets, schedules, and cashflow models; provide recommendations to Greenlight Committees.
  • Review and challenge production budgets and assumptions using benchmarks and internal comparables to assess risks and opportunities.
  • Advise on tax credit strategies and implications, incorporating insights into Greenlight recommendations.
  • Oversee financial performance of productions, including investments, revenues, cashflows, and loan activity, ensuring alignment with approved parameters.
  • Monitor tax credit recoveries and revenue realization in coordination with auditors.
  • Partner with NBCUniversal Treasury to manage foreign exchange exposure and execute FX strategies across international productions.
  • Oversee and enhance Production Finance systems (budgeting, cashflow, payroll, PO, andaccounting), ensuring alignment with corporate frameworks.
  • Operations, Cost Control & Execution
  • Govern production cost controls, including oversight of contingency usage, breakage, and overages; review cost reports and elevate material issues to senior leadership in London and Los Angeles.
  • Provide finance support to the Formats team, including cost tracking, reporting, and analysis for format based productions.
  • Maintain relationships with guilds and payroll providers across the UK and U. S., ensuring compliant and efficient payroll operations.
  • Support monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes in accordance with international accounting standards and NBCU requirements.
  • Ensure robust financial governance and controls, including oversight of approval matrices, banking authorities, and system access in compliance with internal policies.
  • Establish and drive best-in-class financial practices, policies, and procedures, delivering training and guidance across the production lifecycle.

Responsibilities are not limited to the above description and may be modified at any time by the Company.

Qualifications

SKILLS / QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Successful candidates should be able to demonstrate

  • Extensive international Production Controller experience at both production and executive levels across major broadcasters and SVOD platforms; US production exposure preferred.
  • Hands-on experience across diverse TV genres including international multi-episodic drama, comedy, light entertainment, and reality programming, and knowledge of US-style amortization and pattern budgets.
  • Strong expertise in US and UK guild payrolls (e. g., SAG, DGA, WGA, Equity) and production finance systems (including Eclipse, PSL+, and Movie Magic).
  • Proven ability to operate as a strategic financial partner within large, multinational studio environments, bringing commercial acumen and a focus on value optimization.
  • Highly detail-oriented and methodical, with the ability to manage multiple productions concurrently, assess risks and resourcing needs, and provide clear recommendations.
  • Agile and solutions-focused, with a track record of responding quickly and pragmatically to urgent issues and stakeholder demands.
  • Proactive, adaptable, and innovative, with a continuous improvement mindset in evolving production and business environments.
  • Strong executive-level communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders with clarity and confidence.
  • High integrity, intellectual curiosity, and resourcefulness, with a willingness to take on new challenges in fast-paced, complex settings.
  • Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision.

NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation.

You can submit your request to Accessibility Support@nbcuni. com.

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VP Production Finance employer: Universal Products & Experiences

Universal Global Television (UGT) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and innovation in the heart of London. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee growth, UGT provides opportunities for professional development while working alongside industry leaders on award-winning productions. The company's strong emphasis on collaboration and operational excellence ensures that employees are supported in their roles, making it a rewarding place to build a career in the fast-paced world of television entertainment.

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Contact Details:

Universal Products & Experiences Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land VP Production Finance

Show Off Your Expertise Online

In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.

Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events

Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.

Build a Stunning Portfolio

Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.

Direct Outreach is Key

For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on Universal Products & Experiences for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!

We think you need these skills to ace VP Production Finance

Production Accounting
Financial Management
Budgeting
Cashflow Modelling
Cost Control
Tax Credit Strategies
Payroll Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.

Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at Universal Products & Experiences. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!

Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining Universal Products & Experiences. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!

How to prepare for a job interview at Universal Products & Experiences

Show Off Your Financial Savvy

When you're talking with Universal Products & Experiences, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.

Bring Your Portfolio to Life

A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.

Know Your Regulations and Compliance

In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.

Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability

As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to Universal Products & Experiences.