Finance Director, Leading Global Professional Sports Tournament - Middle East based role

Delta Executive Search; Greater London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global professional sports tournament is seeking a Finance Director based in the Middle East. This role involves overseeing financial operations, developing strategies, and managing a finance team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in finance, preferably within sports, and a strong understanding of UK regulations.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience as a Finance Director or similar role.
• Business fluency in English mandatory; Spanish fluency is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement financial strategies to support organizational objectives.
• Oversee preparation of financial statements and reports.
• Manage cash flow and ensure liquidity.

Skills

Financial Management

Regulatory Compliance

Budgeting

Cash Flow Management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Finance

Master’s degree or CPA

Tools

ERP/financial software

Job description

Finance Director, Leading Global Professional Sports Tournament - Middle East based role

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Background:

Our client, a leading professional racket sports tournament backed by the official federation and a sovereign sports investment vehicle, is seeking a Finance Director based in the Middle East.

Reporting to the CEO, the Finance Director will oversee all financial aspects of the organization, lead the finance department, ensure strategic financial planning, and optimize the organization’s finances.

The ideal candidate will have UK market experience, including direct interaction with HMRC, as the company maintains a UK-based entity. Experience in the sports industry is not mandatory but advantageous.

Responsibilities:

1. Develop and implement financial strategies and best practices to support organizational objectives.
2. Oversee preparation of financial statements, reports, performance analysis, and forecasts for accurate financial planning.
3. Manage cash flow to ensure liquidity and working capital needs are met.
4. Recommend strategies to maximize cash reserves and minimize financing costs.
5. Handle payments to vendors, employees, and stakeholders, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
6. Liaise with external auditors, financial institutions, and key stakeholders such as event promoters and service providers.
7. Manage relationships with financial stakeholders, including banks, vendors, and investors.
8. Develop and manage budgets and financial plans aligned with strategic objectives.
9. Collaborate with department heads to create detailed budget forecasts and monitor performance.
10. Analyze variances from budgets and provide insights to the executive team.
11. Identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks proactively.
12. Supervise accounting functions, payroll, and financial controls.
13. Provide financial guidance and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
14. Identify cost-saving opportunities and efficiency improvements.
15. Build and lead a high-performing finance team through recruiting, training, and development.

Qualifications:

1. 12+ years of experience as a Finance Director, Financial Controller, or similar role, preferably in sports or related industries, or with a demonstrated understanding of the industry.
2. Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field; Master’s degree or CPA preferred.
3. Strong knowledge of financial management, accounting principles, and regulatory compliance.
4. Proficiency in ERP/financial software (Odoo preferred).
5. Business fluency in English is mandatory; Spanish fluency is a plus.

Additional Details:

• Seniority level: Director
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
• Industries: Financial Services, Sports Teams and Clubs, Investment Management