Financial Accountant

Financial Accountant - Media
Seeking a qualified Financial Accountant (ACA/ACCA) to manage financial reporting, statutory accounts, and compliance for a media business. Key responsibilities include period-end close, balance sheet reconciliations, SOX compliance, audits, tax reporting, and financial planning. Ideal for a detail-oriented professional with strong UK GAAP/IFRS knowledge.

Job Title: Financial Accountant
Department: Corporate Finance - Media
Location: London
Salary: £60,000 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours of Work: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Job Purpose

The Financial Accountant will be responsible for producing accurate and timely financial accounting and reporting for media entities. The role ensures adherence to best-practice financial processes and controls, supporting statutory reporting, group reporting, and ad-hoc financial tasks. Reporting to the Assistant Financial Controller, the position is essential in maintaining compliance with accounting regulations and driving operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities
Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Manage period-end accounting for multiple entities, ensuring accuracy in financial reports.
• Prepare and review balance sheet reconciliations, investigating variances and ensuring compliance.
• Produce financial statements in accordance with UK GAAP (FRS 102/101), IFRS, or US GAAP, as applicable.
• Support internal controls, SOX compliance, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.
• Assist in the preparation and submission of quarterly and annual reporting packs, tax packs, and compliance reports.
• Contribute to audit processes by coordinating with internal and external auditors.
• Support the preparation of cash flow forecasts and quarterly withholding tax schedules.
• Assist in embedded derivative calculations and ensure correct financial treatment.

Management Accounting & Financial Planning

• Oversee period-end accounting processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
• Conduct quarterly financial planning and analysis (FP&A) related to overhead costs.
• Provide insights on financial performance to support strategic decision-making.
• Assist with ad-hoc financial analysis, including media contract evaluations and accounting queries.
• Act as a key point of contact for the offshore shared services team, ensuring collaboration and alignment on financial processes.

Regulatory Compliance & Internal Controls

• Maintain adherence to statutory reporting standards, ensuring compliance with accounting policies and regulations.
• Ensure financial reports meet official guidelines, including local and international regulatory frameworks.
• Support risk management initiatives by implementing and monitoring financial controls.
• Collaborate with tax and compliance teams to ensure proper documentation and adherence to tax regulations.

Ad-Hoc Duties

• Support various finance-related projects within the organization, providing financial insights as needed.
• Assist in improving processes related to financial reporting, reconciliations, and internal controls.
• Undertake additional tasks as required to support the finance department and senior leadership.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting and period-end close processes.
• Compliance with UK GAAP, IFRS, and SOX controls.
• Effectiveness in managing internal and external audit processes.
• Quality of financial analysis and support provided to stakeholders.
• Efficiency in cash flow forecasting and tax reporting.
• Collaboration and communication with finance teams, auditors, and other departments.

Person Specification
Knowledge & Experience
Essential:

• Strong understanding of UK GAAP (FRS 102/101) or IFRS/US GAAP.
• Proven experience in financial accounting and reporting.
• Knowledge of internal controls, compliance, and audit processes.
• Experience working with finance teams in a corporate environment.

Desirable:

• Experience working within the media or sports rights industry.
• Familiarity with SAP or OneSource financial systems.
• Experience within a global finance function.

Skills & Abilities
Essential:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent Excel skills for financial analysis and reporting.
• Ability to plan and organize workload to meet deadlines.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• Ability to work independently and proactively address financial issues.

Qualifications & Training
Essential:

• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or equivalent).

Aptitude & Personal Qualities
Essential:

• Proactive and self-motivated, with a keen eye for detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong team player with a collaborative approach.
• Interest in the media or sports industry is a plus.

Additional Information

• Some additional hours may be required, especially during reporting deadlines.
• This role offers an opportunity to gain exposure to global finance operations within a media-focused environment.