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.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates