Finance Manager

Finance Manager - Leisure - This fast-growing, high-profile organisation in the Media/Leisure sector is seeking a high-calibre Finance Manager to join its finance team in Essex / East London. The business has an exciting portfolio of projects and brands and is entering a new phase of growth, making this a pivotal appointment in finance. This newly-created key role reports to the Group Financial Controller and Finance Director, offering exposure to senior stakeholders and the opportunity to shape financial operations and processes across the group and impact decision-making as the company grows. Key responsibilities * Lead and develop a small finance team, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. * Oversee the preparation and delivery of Group Management Accounts, ensuring all reporting deadlines are met. * Partner with internal teams to provide financial analysis and commentary that supports commercial decisions. * Review and approve weekly and monthly payment runs, VAT returns and compliance submissions * Liaise and work with external advisors where appropriate. * Prepare statutory accounts for multiple trading entities and coordinate the annual audit process. * Review and improve systems, processes and controls to enhance accuracy and efficiency within finance. Candidate profile * ACA or ACCA qualified. * Experienced in managing or supervising a team, either from practice (audit or similar) seeking a first move into industry, or currently working as a Finance Manager / Management Accountant within a small to mid-sized business. * Hands-on and detail-driven, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. * Comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment