Head of Financial Reporting - Sports

Head of Financial Reporting & ControlLead Financial Excellence in a Global BusinessWe are seeking an accomplished and commercially minded Head of Financial Reporting & Control to lead the accounting, reporting, governance, and compliance functions across an international business. This is a strategic leadership opportunity for a qualified finance professional with extensive technical accounting expertise, a passion for process improvement, and a proven ability to build and lead high-performing teams. As a key finance leader, you will oversee financial reporting across multiple international entities, ensure compliance with global accounting standards, strengthen financial controls, and drive transformation through automation and continuous improvement. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting • Lead all aspects of the accounting function, including month-end close, consolidation, and financial reporting. • Oversee the timely and accurate reporting of monthly, quarterly, and annual consolidated financial results across international entities and subsidiaries. • Review complex commercial contracts and new business arrangements to identify and address accounting implications. • Partner with business units and corporate teams to provide technical accounting guidance on complex and significant transactions, ensuring compliance with US GAAP, UK GAAP, and German GAAP. • Monitor emerging accounting standards and lead the implementation of new reporting requirements. Controls & Governance • Develop and maintain scalable financial processes, systems, controls, and policies to support business growth. • Ensure a strong internal control environment that safeguards company assets, minimizes risk, and meets compliance requirements. • Create and maintain comprehensive accounting policies and procedures to promote consistency and best practice. • Champion ethical leadership and ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and company policies. Process Improvement & Transformation • Drive automation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency across finance and the wider organization. • Lead cross-functional finance projects supporting strategic business initiatives and operational change. • Leverage technology to improve reporting capabilities and organizational effectiveness. • Develop and execute effective change management and communication plans. Audit & Compliance • Lead statutory audits for international entities and support group audit activities. • Build strong relationships with external auditors, ensuring alignment on financial reporting and accounting matters. • Support external financial audits, SOX compliance, internal audits, and regulatory reviews. • Partner with internal tax specialists to ensure compliance with local tax regulations across multiple jurisdictions. Leadership • Inspire and develop high-performing finance teams through coaching, mentoring, and clear strategic direction. • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, accountability, and customer focus. • Design and implement learning and development initiatives that build technical capability and leadership skills. • Create an inclusive, engaging environment that promotes teamwork, innovation, and employee wellbeing. • Develop organizational structures aligned with industry best practice and future business growth. About YouYou are an experienced finance leader with exceptional technical accounting knowledge and a track record of delivering results within complex, international organizations. Essential Requirements • Fully qualified ACA or ACCA. • 15+ years of accounting experience, ideally across both public practice and industry. • Strong knowledge of US GAAP, UK GAAP • Extensive experience leading financial reporting, consolidation, audit, and governance activities. • Highly proficient with ERP systems (SAP experience is advantageous) and financial reporting tools. • Demonstrated ability to lead change, improve processes, and build high-performing teams. • Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills. • A collaborative, results-oriented approach with high levels of integrity, accountability, and commercial awareness. Why Join Us?This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a growing international organisation. You'll work alongside senior leaders, influence strategic decisions, lead transformation initiatives, and make a lasting impact while helping shape a world-class finance function. 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.