Finance Director (interim)

Milk VFX; City Of London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading VFX company in the City Of London is seeking an experienced Finance Director to oversee financial operations and strategic guidance. You will lead the finance team, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in finance, preferably within the media or VFX industries. This is an initial 3-month contract with the possibility to extend, aimed at supporting the company's growth.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in finance leadership roles, preferably in media or VFX.
• Strong understanding of GAAP/IFRS and financial reporting.
• Experience with project-based accounting and profitability analysis.

Responsibilities

• Oversee financial operations: accounting, payroll, reporting.
• Develop annual budgets and long-term financial plans.
• Provide strategic guidance on pricing and investment opportunities.

Skills

Analytical skills

Leadership

Financial principles

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field

MBA or CPA preferred

Tools

Netsuite

Job description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Finance Director to join our dynamic team. Reporting directly to the MD, the Finance Director will be a key member of the leadership team, responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company. This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong operational focus, capable of providing insightful financial guidance to support the company's continued growth and success in the fast-paced VFX industry.

UK-based (London preferred)
Initial 3-month contract with the possibility to extend
? Target start: December 2025 - April 2026

Responsibilities:

• Financial Planning & Analysis: Develop and manage the annual budget, forecasts, and long-term financial plans. Analyze financial performance, identify trends, and provide recommendations for improvement. Prepare and present financial reports to the leadership team and investors (if applicable).
• Financial Operations: Oversee all financial operations, including accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll. Ensure the accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting and compliance with all relevant regulations. Implement and maintain robust internal controls.
• Strategic Financial Management: Provide strategic financial guidance on key business decisions, including pricing, project profitability, investment opportunities, and mergers & acquisitions. Evaluate potential risks and opportunities and recommend appropriate strategies.
• Project Accounting: Implement and manage project costing and profitability analysis. Work closely with production teams to ensure accurate tracking of project budgets and identify areas for cost optimization. Understand the unique financial challenges of project-based work within the VFX industry.
• Funding & Investment: Manage relationships with banks, investors, and other financial institutions. Explore and secure funding options to support the company's growth initiatives.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop the finance team. Foster a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Legal & Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable financial regulations, tax laws, and accounting standards. Manage relationships with external auditors and legal counsel.
• Systems & Technology: Oversee the implementation and maintenance of financial systems and software. Identify opportunities to leverage technology to improve efficiency and accuracy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field; MBA or CPA preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in finance leadership roles, preferably within the media, entertainment, or VFX industry.
• Strong understanding of financial principles, accounting standards (GAAP/IFRS), and financial reporting.
• Experience with project-based accounting and profitability analysis.
• Proven ability to develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving, and decision making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in financial software and systems, including Netsuite.
• Experience with funding and investment strategies.
• Knowledge of the VFX industry and its unique financial challenges is a significant advantage.