Finance Director

Harper May is working with a media and events business that produces large-scale conferences, festivals, and branded experiences across the UK and Europe. Founded over a decade ago, the organisation is privately owned and has grown steadily through a combination of organic event expansion and strategic partnerships. Recent venue acquisitions and a new digital platform launch have significantly increased operational complexity and financial reporting demands.

The business now has a part-time CFO who is moving to a strategic advisor role, and they are seeking a Finance Director to take the helm of the function.

The Role Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will own all financial management, strategy, and control across the business. You will work closely with the commercial, operations, and programming teams to drive profitability while supporting the creative and commercial ambitions of the organisation. This is both a strategic and hands-on role, requiring someone who can build capability while actively managing the detail.

Lead financial planning, forecasting, and analysis across multiple event portfolios and revenue streams Develop and implement financial strategy aligned with the Board's growth and investment priorities Own P&L responsibility for individual events and venues, partnering with operations on cost control and margin optimisation Build and mentor the finance team, establishing scalable processes and strong financial discipline Oversee statutory accounts, tax planning, audit, and all regulatory compliance Provide clear financial insight to the Board and act as a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive Manage working capital, cash flow, and banking relationships What we are looking for ACA, ACCA, or CIMA qualified with at least seven years in senior finance leadership Proven experience in media, entertainment, events, hospitality, or venue management Demonstrable strength in financial modelling, scenario planning, and commercial insight Track record of building and developing finance teams in growth-stage businesses Comfortable communicating with non-financial stakeholders and presenting to Board level Hands-on, pragmatic approach with the ability to balance control with operational flexibility