Financial Accountant

Robert Walters UK; Chiswick; On-site; GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a qualified Financial Accountant to oversee financial reporting and compliance within a dynamic media environment. This role is perfect for detail-oriented professionals who excel in managing period-end closes, balance sheet reconciliations, and audits. You will collaborate with finance teams to ensure adherence to UK GAAP and IFRS standards while driving operational efficiency. This position promises exposure to global finance operations, making it an exciting opportunity for those passionate about the media or sports industry. Join a forward-thinking company that values accuracy, compliance, and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of UK GAAP or IFRS/US GAAP is essential.
• Proven experience in financial accounting and reporting required.

Responsibilities

• Manage period-end accounting and ensure accurate financial reports.
• Support internal controls and compliance with regulatory frameworks.

Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Excel Skills

Communication Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, or equivalent)

Tools

SAP

OneSource

Job description

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.