Financial Controller - Sports and Events

Financial Controller - Sports and Events

London Hybrid Working

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Financial Controller to join a fast-growing, international brand experience and live events business. With international presence, this dynamic organisation delivers high-impact projects for global clients and is entering a key phase of growth and transformation.

This is a pivotal, commercially focused role reporting directly to the Group Finance Director and CEO, offering real influence across the business. You will lead the finance function across multiple entities, drive financial performance, and play a key role in shaping strategic decisions.

The Role

As Financial Controller, you will take ownership of the finance function across four entities spanning three jurisdictions. You will be responsible for delivering accurate, timely financial reporting, while leading and developing a small team and partnering closely with senior stakeholders.

This role blends technical excellence with commercial insight, ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Control

• Lead the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
• Oversee month-end and year-end close processes
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial records and the general ledger
• Maintain and enhance internal controls, processes, and financial policies
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards

Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis

• Lead annual budgeting and rolling forecast processes
• Deliver insightful variance analysis and performance reporting
• Support strategic planning through financial modelling
• Monitor cash flow, working capital, and key financial metrics

Compliance & Audit

• Act as the primary contact for external auditors
• Oversee statutory accounts preparation and regulatory filings
• Ensure compliance with tax and statutory requirements across jurisdictions
• Liaise with external advisors, banks, and regulatory bodies

Commercial & Operational Finance

• Manage project margins and oversee revenue recognition
• Drive improvements in cash flow and financial controls
• Provide actionable insight to support decision-making

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of three direct reports
• Partner with senior leadership and department heads
• Build strong cross-functional relationships across the business

Process Improvement & Projects

• Identify and implement process and system improvements
• Support ERP system implementation and finance transformation initiatives
• Drive automation and efficiency across the finance function

About You

You are a commercially minded, hands-on finance leader who enjoys working in a dynamic, fast-moving environment. You bring strong technical expertise alongside the ability to influence and partner with stakeholders across the business.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Qualified accountant (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent)
• Background in practice with post-qualification industry experience
• Experience at Senior Finance Manager or junior Financial Controller level
• Industry experience within agency, events, marketing, or creative sectors is highly desirable
• Strong experience in financial reporting, tax, project accounting, revenue recognition, and budgeting
• Proven track record managing audits and statutory reporting

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent leadership and team management skills
• Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management
• Able to operate effectively under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Advanced Excel skills; experience with Sage50 and ERP systems

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.