A Central London independent and international rights owner group specialising in the creation, development and brand management of intellectual property rights is looking to add an experienced Financial Controller to their team. The group has a particular expertise in the media of books, television and digital rights. The Group is PE backed.

This is a very hands-on role, requiring a candidate with a can-do attitude and a strong background in finance and accounting now looking for the next long term step in their career.

Role overview: 

• Reporting to the Group Finance Director
• Responsible for all aspects of the Group’s financial reporting & control
• 5 direct reports

• Ownership of consolidated monthly management accounts (20 entities, will be reduced to 9) and review of management accounts for individual companies
• Overview of VAT, CT and WHT filings
• Payroll reporting (we use 3rd party provider)
• Financial covenants reporting
• Monthly cash flow reporting
• ESG reporting
• Involvement in monthly board pack production
• Preparation of consolidated annual budgets, quarterly forecasts
• Cash/FX/working capital management and reporting
• Management of the annual audit process
• Maintaining relationships with the bank, insurers, PE agents
• Overview the preparation of annual statutory accounts for the consolidated entity and subsidiaries
• Consistent review and improvement of internal controls and processes across the Group
• Preparation of financial information to assist with commercial negotiations
• Ad-hoc financial analysis to support decision making
• Support FD in managing process of the Group’s restructure including implementation of the new accounting software and centralisation of finance divisions
• Responding to ad-hoc queries from the FD, wider Board and other stakeholders
• Management of corporate insurance renewals

Alongside this transition, there is the need to develop a clear understanding of all of the activities of the Group, and work as part of the team within the finance department and the wider Group. This is a role which bridges the various teams within the business, Editorial, Sales, Contracts, Accounting and Royalty reporting.

• Recognised Accountancy qualification
• Exceptional staff management background
• Good technical accounting skills
• FX experience
• Experience of small groups and consolidations
• Advanced Excel skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Good communication skills
• Process driven
• Proven ability of working under pressure. Able to prioritise and manage workload
• (particularly at month and year end)
• Proactive approach; self-motivated
• Understanding of licensing and royalties is desired