Head of Finance, UK

TAIT; Pontefract; On-site; GBP 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading live event production company in the UK is looking for a Head of Finance to oversee financial operations. This role involves managing accounting, financial reporting, compliance, and providing strategic insights. The ideal candidate is a fully qualified accountant with extensive experience in a senior finance position, preferably in a project-led environment. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills are essential. The company offers a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in a senior finance role within a project-led environment.
• Proven ability to partner with cross-functional teams.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the UK finance function, overseeing accounting and compliance.
• Prepare and ensure accuracy of financial statements.
• Drive continuous improvement in internal controls and processes.

Skills

Strong technical accounting knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Leadership abilities

Stakeholder management

Education

Fully qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA)

Tools

Epicor or similar ERP systems

Job description

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TAIT partners with artists, brands, IP holders and place makers to bring culture-defining, never-before-seen experiences to life. With a legacy of innovation spanning over 45 years, TAIT has grown from pioneering in rock 'n' roll concert staging to setting the global standard for extraordinary live events and experiences through cutting-edge technology, precision engineering, and creative design. TAIT's 20 global offices have developed iconic productions and experiences in over 30 countries, all seven continents, and even outer space for renowned performers, theme parks, exhibits, and venues across the globe, including partnerships with Taylor Swift, Cirque Du Soleil, Royal Opera House, Nike, NASA, Bloomberg, Google, Beyoncé, and The Olympics

Position Purpose

The Head of Finance - UK is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing all financial operations across TAIT's UK region. This role encompasses project and commercial accounting, general ledger management, and the preparation of accurate financial reports and statements. The position ensures compliance with relevant accounting standards, tax regulations, and internal controls, while also contributing to the strategic and operational success of the business.

With a strong operational focus, the Head of Finance partners closely with senior leadership, project managers, and operations teams to drive financial performance, optimize resource allocation, and support informed decision-making across the organization.

Essential Responsibilities

• Lead the UK finance function, overseeing general accounting, financial reporting, and compliance.
• Oversee the timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for individual entities and the consolidated group.
• Own project and commercial accounting - driving accuracy, managing risk, and monitoring performance.
• Prepare and refine project financial data to improve visibility on costs, margins, and deliver efficiency.
• Manage project cash flow and lead the preparation of project P&L projections in line with commercial goals.
• Provide timely, strategic financial insights to help steer projects from quoting to completion.
• Collaborate with Project and Operations teams to align financial operations with creative and technical execution.
• Play a key role in the year-end group and statutory audit processes and ensure compliance and governance.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities.
• Provide financial support to M&A activities as needed - from due diligence through to post-close integration.
• Drive continuous improvement in internal controls, processes, systems, and team performance.

Position Requirements

• Fully qualified accountant (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA).
• Extensive experience in a senior finance role within a project-led or operations-focused environment.
• Strong technical accounting knowledge with sound commercial judgement.
• Proven ability to partner with cross-functional teams and influence decision-making at a senior level.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic setting with shifting priorities.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in live entertainment, engineering, or technology-led sectors.
• Familiarity with Epicor or similar ERP systems.

Ideal Traits

• Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently
• Proven and demonstrated experience in successfully managing projects and deadlines
• Ability to observe issues and work through problem solving approaches
• Comfortability in presenting in front of small and large groups of individuals
• Ability to work in a dynamic environment and culture

TAIT is an equal opportunity employer fully committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected characteristic as outlined by international, national, state, or local laws.