Senior Financial Analyst - Publishing

Handle Recruitment Limited; United Kingdom; Remote; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading publishing firm in the United Kingdom seeks a Senior Financial Analyst to provide proactive financial and commercial advisory support. The ideal candidate will deliver timely management reporting and assist in the budgeting process. Strong financial analysis skills and proficiency in Excel are essential. This role also involves collaborating with senior stakeholders across divisions to drive financial insight. Commitment to diversity and inclusion is valued.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in financial analysis, ideally within a commercial finance or FP&A role.
• Prior experience in publishing or a similar creative industry is advantageous.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting techniques.

Responsibilities

• Deliver management reporting, KPIs, and variance analysis for financial performance.
• Support annual budgeting, quarterly reforecasts, and rolling forecasts.
• Work with stakeholders to provide financial insight for decision-making.

Skills

Financial analysis

Numeracy and analytical skills

Attention to detail

Financial modeling

Communication skills

Advanced Excel

Education

Studying towards finance qualification (ACCA, CIMA)

Tools

BI tools

ERP systems

Job description

Senior Financial Analyst - Publishing

Leading Publishing house are looking for a Senior Finance Analyst to join their team. The role will provide pro‑active financial, commercial and business advisory support and analysis to our publishing divisions.

Key responsibilities:

• Deliver clear, timely management reporting, KPIs, and variance analysis to track performance against budget, forecast, and long‑term plans.
• Support the annual budgeting process, quarterly reforecasts, and rolling forecasts, ensuring assumptions are robust and aligned with business priorities.
• Work with senior stakeholders across publishing divisions, sales, and operations to provide financial insight, challenge, and support in strategic and commercial decision‑making.
• Review and report on previously published book performance
• Support the royalties' team with financial analysis and reconciliations
• Drive improvements in reporting, processes, and systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy within the finance function.
• Prepare the key monthly provision calculations on returns, stock and advances
• Ensuring best practice and financial controls are followed
• Liaise with external auditors during the annual audit

Qualifications and Experience:

• Strong track record in financial analysis, ideally within a commercial finance or FP&A role.
• Prior experience in publishing, media, or a similar creative industry is an advantage but not essential.
• Studying towards a financial qualification (ACCA, CIMA)
• Strong numeracy and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail
• Proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting techniques.
• Ability to interpret complex data, identify trends, and communicate insights clearly and persuasively.
• Advanced Excel skills required; experience with BI tools and ERP systems desirable.

Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.