Financial Director - Live Entertainment - Handle Recruitment : Job Details

Handle Recruitment are proud to be partnering with a world-renowned leader in Live Entertainment, Performing Arts and Artist Management in their search for a Finance Director.

Looking after the international finance operations across the UK, US, France, and Germany, the successful candidate will manage and develop a talented finance team leading financial strategy, system transformation, and partner closely with the executive leadership team to drive performance and sustainable growth.

Beginning with a system implementation project, keyresponsibilities will include but not be limited to the below Strategic & Financial duties:

• Lead and develop a global finance team
• Embed financial thinking into operational decision-making across all divisions
• Deliver strategic insights to the COO and senior leadership
• Partner with the Executive Director and Owner on major business decisions
• Provide financial leadership on high-profile projects and new ventures

Financial Operations & Reporting

• Own month-end and quarter-end close processes
• Lead group consolidation and multi-territory reporting
• Deliver insightful management reporting and cashflow oversight
• Oversee budget planning and financial modelling for growth areas
• Champion profitability across UK orchestral touring and US attractions
• Ensure accurate reconciliation, JV reporting, and client account payouts

Systems Transformation

• Drive process redesign to boost accuracy, efficiency, and risk management
• Champion system adoption, team training, and continuous improvement

Compliance & Tax

• Oversee statutory accounts and external year-end reviews
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations across all territories
• Manage global VAT and corporate tax matters

The successful candidate will be a fully qualified accountant ACA/ACCA/CIMA and have strong, hands-on experience within a senior finance position within Entertainment or Media and:

• Have strong leadership across international, cross-functional teams
• Be proactive and detail-oriented with a hands-on mindset
• Experience in system implementations (ERP transition experience a plus) *
• Familiarity with Microsoft Great Plains (nice to have)
• Advanced Excel and financial modelling skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Background in the creative industries or performing arts is highly desirable
• Deep knowledge of IFRS and UK GAAP

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.