Finance Director in Cardiff

This role will report to and work very closely with the Group Chief Executive, Chief Financial & Operating Officer of the WRU and as a member of the Senior Leadership team will assume full responsibility for the WRU Corporate Finance function.

The Person

• Professionally qualified accountant
• Strong team leadership experience
• Confident in engaging with Group’s bankers and external stakeholders
• Excellent IT skills, specifically Microsoft package
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of regulatory compliance
• Experience of working in an audit role is desirable
• Experience of working in the sports industry is desirable
• Ability to communicate and work through the medium of Welsh is desirable

The Role

• Provide leadership and strategic advice on financial, accounting and tax issues.
• Manage the Group’s Corporate Finance function: Oversee a team of finance staff, with a focus on development of that team.
• Ensure the Group’s cash flow is effectively managed and optimized, review, revise and police effective financial controls, risk assessment and management across the Group; continuous review of the Group’s financial and wider systems to ensure accurate records, effective controls and efficient reporting.
• Supported by the wider finance team, provide accurate, timely and meaningful management information for both internal and external use, including regular short- and medium-term forecasting.
• Oversee the Group’s annual statutory audit and prepare the Group’s statutory accounts as required.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory tax obligations, including VAT, Corporation Tax and payroll taxes.
• Quarterly treasury reporting to banks and lenders.
• Manage relationships with the WRU Group’s bankers, ensuring the Group has access to adequate facilities, is in full compliance with its banking obligations and has appropriate terms on those facilities.
• As a member of the FMB, work closely with the professional clubs, implementing rigorous financial safeguards as well as ensuring the efficient and effective investment of funds to ensure the success of the professional game.
• Review income streams and opportunities: reshape the organisation to maximise future revenues.
• Manage the Group’s insurance portfolio to ensure that all Group Insurance policies are cost effective and reflect statutory requirements and the Group’s risk appetite.
• Manage and plan the Group’s capital investment strategy to ensure that future projects (maintenance and revenue driving) are adequately planned, appraised and funded.
• Support the Chief Finance Officer & Chief Operating Officer to manage and plan the Group’s debenture strategy to ensure opportunities are maximised and obligations are met.
• Support the Chief Finance Officer & Chief Operations Officer to represent the WRU on Finance Audit and Risk Committee of associated organisations, such as Six Nations, British & Irish Lions and United Rugby Championship.
• Manage the Group’s risk register.
• Represent the WRU on the FMB, with a particular focus on financial matters related to professional rugby.
• Carry out duties in support of the WRU Group Strategic Mission, Purpose and Values.

WRU Requirements

• The WRU require that individuals are proficient in IT skills, specifically Microsoft packages.
• Excellent written and verbal communications are essential, along with the ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate through the medium of Welsh and a Valid UK Driver's License is desirable.
• This role is subject to a basic/enhanced DBS check.

The Perks

• Salary Sacrifice Pension (5% employee contribution, matched by WRU)
• Life assurance scheme
• WRU Group Ticket Allocation (in line with ticketing policy)
• One additional paid day off (birthday leave)
• Employee assistance programme
• Team Tactics – hybrid working arrangements
• Free stadium parking and gym
• WRU Group store and tour discounts
• WRU Group partnership offers
• Eye Care Voucher Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme

Our Values

The WRU Group are committed to developing a culture whereby all employees are equally valued and respected. Our aims, together with our vision and mission, are underpinned by our core values and beliefs which embrace: Integrity, Excellence, Success, Courage, Family & Humour.

Inclusion At The WRU

The WRU Group are committed to building diverse, high-performing and engaged teams across Welsh Rugby. We are ambitious about providing a people first culture where everyone can belong, be heard and respected.

How to Apply

Please click APPLY NOW to begin the application process.