Financial Controller - Media

Handle Recruitment are proud to be assisting a Global Media Giant in their search for a Financial Controller to join their senior leadership team. This role will be responsible for overseeing financial reporting, compliance, controllership, and process improvements while supporting the EMEA Controller and leading the local finance team.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technically strong, hands-on finance professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys driving operational improvements.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting, Compliance & Accounting

• Support the EMEA Controller in preparing and coordinating the month-end close process.
• Review monthly profit & loss statements, balance sheets, and key reconciliations.
• Ensure controlling activities meet country regulatory reporting requirements, including US GAAP.
• Review statutory financial statements, including UK consolidated accounts, and related regulatory filings for Board approval.
• Support and execute reporting under UK GAAP.
• Manage and support external audit engagements.
• Review and approve tax computations and VAT returns.
• Oversee cash flow forecasts and perform monthly variance analysis.
• Review and approve journals and judgement-based manual adjustments.

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Work closely with Corporate Finance, FP&A, and Commercial Controlling teams.
• Lead and manage the Financial Reporting and Controllership teams.
• Act as a key liaison with department heads and commercial teams.
• Oversee the production of accounts receivable and accounts payable reporting.
• Manage tax compliance, intercompany transactions, and transfer pricing policies.

Process Improvement & Operational Excellence

• Monitor operational KPIs and service delivery across the finance function.
• Partner with the Senior Director of Controlling Operations to mitigate risks and identify improvement opportunities.
• Oversee the balance sheet reconciliation process performed by the Controlling Operations team.
• Drive initiatives to improve Free Cash Flow and take ownership of cash flow forecasting.
• Contribute to the development of reporting standards, financial policies, and internal controls.
• Support offshore teams in standardising and improving finance processes and technology.

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, or CIMA).
• Minimum 10 years post-qualification experience.
• Experience within a top 10 accountancy firm is highly desirable.
• Proven experience as a Financial Controller or equivalent senior finance role.

Skills & Expertise

• Strong technical knowledge of US GAAP and UK GAAP.
• Experience managing internal and external audits.
• Strong understanding of corporation tax, VAT, and withholding tax.
• Experience implementing or monitoring internal control frameworks.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead teams and influence change.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

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.