Finance Controller

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Our client is a dynamic entertainment company operating across film, television, and studio production. They create compelling content and experiences, with a Finance team that plays a critical role in ensuring the business operates with clarity, discipline, and strategic foresight.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Financial Controller is a senior leadership role responsible for the overall financial management of the organization. Reporting directly to the CFO, this individual will own the integrity of financial reporting, lead the finance and accounting function, and serve as a key strategic partner to the executive team.

The ideal candidate brings deep experience in financial control and accounting leadership. Experience within the entertainment, media, or production sectors, including a strong understanding of production accounting, statutory compliance, and business performance management, is highly desirable.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Own the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Prepare and present monthly management accounts in accordance with applicable accounting standards (IFRS)
• Manage external accountant relationships and coordinate statutory filings, tax returns, and regulatory compliance requirements, including potential future external audits
• Maintain robust internal controls and financial policies across the group
• Ensure compliance with all industry-specific financial regulations and obligations

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the annual budgeting process across all business units and productions
• Assist in developing rolling forecasts, scenario models, and variance analyses to support decision-making
• Provide the executive team with timely, insightful financial reporting and commentary
• Identify risks and opportunities within the financial plan and recommend corrective actions
• Partner with department heads to drive cost discipline and financial accountability

Production & Project Accounting

• Oversee the financial management of film, television, and studio productions from greenlight to delivery in collaboration with external production accountants
• Ensure accurate cost reporting, budget tracking, and cost-to-complete analysis for each production
• Manage co-production, financing, and distribution deal accounting, including deferments and recoupment schedules

Payroll & HR Finance

• Oversee payroll operations across the organization, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely processing
• Partner with HR on benefits administration, compensation modelling, and workforce planning
• Ensure compliance with employment tax obligations across all operating jurisdictions

Leadership & Operations

• Build, lead, and mentor a growing finance function
• Drive continuous improvement in financial systems, processes, and reporting infrastructure
• Evaluate and implement accounting software and ERP tools suited to the entertainment sector; current systems include Xero
• Support fundraising initiatives, investor reporting, and M&A activities as required

QUALIFICATIONS

• CPA, CA, or equivalent professional accounting designation preferred
• 8+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role
• Strong understanding of GAAP/IFRS, tax compliance, and statutory reporting
• Experience managing multi-entity or group-level consolidations
• Proficiency with ERP and financial management systems

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Strategic thinker with strong commercial acumen
• High level of integrity and attention to detail
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Collaborative leader who builds strong cross-functional relationships
• Proactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset