Financial Controller Manager

The Financial Controller Manager is responsible for overseeing the financial health and performance of the organization. This includes managing budgeting, reporting, compliance, and financial controls while supporting strategic decisions with financial insights. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the unique financial dynamics in the sports industry, including player contracts, sponsorships, ticketing, broadcasting revenue, and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities:

1. Financial Management & Control
   • Lead the day-to-day financial operations, including accounting, reporting, accounts payable/receivable, and payroll.
   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date financial records aligned with international accounting standards (e.g., IFRS).
   • Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting.
2. Budgeting Management & Forecasting
   • Lead the annual budget planning cycle across all departments, including operations, marketing, youth academy, and team management.
   • Develop financial models and forecasts that align with business objectives and regulatory frameworks.
   • Analyze financial data to identify trends and variances, making proactive recommendations for corrective actions.
   • Monitor performance against budgets, investigate variances, and recommend cost-optimization initiatives.
3. Strategic Financial Planning
   • Partner with senior leadership to assess the financial impact of club strategies, such as player acquisitions, sponsorship deals, infrastructure investments, and international expansion.
   • Evaluate the profitability of commercial initiatives (e.g., merchandising, matchday revenue, digital media).
4. Compliance, Governance & Risk Management
   • Ensure compliance with local tax laws, industry-specific financial regulations, and league financial fair play (FFP) requirements.
   • Develop and implement internal financial policies and control systems to mitigate risk and prevent fraud.
   • Liaise with auditors, legal advisors, and regulatory authorities as needed.
5. Cash Flow & Treasury Management
   • Oversee cash flow forecasting, working capital management, and liquidity planning.
   • Manage banking relationships, debt instruments, and investment strategies in alignment with the club’s financial policy.
6. Team Leadership & Development
   • Manage and mentor a team of accountants, analysts, and finance officers.
   • Foster a culture of financial discipline, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
7. Financial Reporting to Stakeholders
   • Prepare and present detailed financial reports to executive management, board members, investors, and external stakeholders.
   • Support the CFO with insights and recommendations for financial decision-making.
8. Technology & Systems Optimization
   • Leverage financial systems and ERP tools to enhance reporting accuracy, efficiency, and data analysis.
   • Drive digital transformation and automation in financial processes.
9. Operational Finance Oversight
   • Supervise accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and general ledger functions.
   • Work closely with departments (e.g., marketing, football operations, merchandising) to align operational spending with financial targets.
   • Establish policies and procedures for financial operations to improve efficiency and transparency.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• Recognized professional accounting qualification (e.g., CPA, ACCA, CMA).
• Proficiency with current financial software.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive experience in financial management roles, preferably in the sports, entertainment, or media industries.
• Proven track record in financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance management.

Skills:

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Strong proficiency in financial software (e.g., ERP systems) and advanced Excel skills.
• Ability to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, standards, and international financial reporting standards (IFRS).