- Location: London (with occasional travel across Northern Europe) - Industry: Media & Entertainment - Reporting Line: Group SVP, Global Business Services (plus dotted senior stakeholder exposure) - Travel: Approx. once per month initially (may reduce over time) GALENT are recruiting for a senior leadership opportunity suitable for an experienced finance transformation and shared services professional who seeks to work within a globally recognised media and entertainment group headquartered in London. Environment and benefits / general selling points This newly created position plays a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of a large, international finance organisation. It offers the opportunity to lead a multi-country shared services model, modernise processes, and help drive a significant systems transformation programme, all while having visibility with senior group-level stakeholders and contributing to long-term strategy. You ll work in a complex, dynamic environment where innovation and operational excellence are encouraged and where your expertise will directly influence how the business delivers finance services across Northern Europe. You will: - Lead the Northern Europe Global Business Services function, overseeing delivery of accounting, reporting, and transactional finance services (AP, AR, treasury, general ledger) across multiple European countries. - Manage and develop a senior leadership team with responsibility for a wider network of c.100 finance professionals across the UK, Scandinavia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland and other regions. - Drive standardisation, digitisation and process improvement, ensuring compliance with IFRS, local GAAP and group policies. - Oversee period-end close and statutory reporting, coordinating with group functions and external auditors. - Build strong partnerships with local finance teams, group stakeholders and external advisors. - Optimise how and where finance activities are delivered to create a scalable, efficient operating model. - Play a key role in large-scale system transformation, including the ongoing S/4HANA rollout and associated data migration, testing and implementation projects. The ideal Head of Global Business Services Northern Europe will possess the following attributes/skills: - Senior finance leader with 10+ years experience in accounting/finance and several years leading a shared service or global business services organisation. - Proven ability to run large, distributed teams across multiple countries and manage change with discretion and empathy. - Strong technical knowledge of IFRS, local GAAPs and multi-country compliance. - Track record of finance process transformation, ERP implementation and operational excellence, SAP/S4HANA experience strongly preferred. - Excellent leadership, stakeholder management and project/change management skills, with a service-oriented mindset and intercultural awareness. - Professional qualification (e.g. ACCA, CIMA, CPA) desirable; fluent English essential (other European languages a plus). Why this is an excellent opportunity This is a strategic, career-defining role where you will help shape the future of a complex multi-entity finance organisation at one of Europe s most recognisable media and entertainment groups. You will gain senior leadership exposure, influence how finance is delivered across multiple countries, and lead transformation in a forward-thinking, evolving environment that rewards innovation and operational excellence. If your background matches the above, please do not hesitate to apply at your soonest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
Dec 04, 2025
Full time
- Location: London (with occasional travel across Northern Europe) - Industry: Media & Entertainment - Reporting Line: Group SVP, Global Business Services (plus dotted senior stakeholder exposure) - Travel: Approx. once per month initially (may reduce over time) GALENT are recruiting for a senior leadership opportunity suitable for an experienced finance transformation and shared services professional who seeks to work within a globally recognised media and entertainment group headquartered in London. Environment and benefits / general selling points This newly created position plays a pivotal role in shaping the next phase of a large, international finance organisation. It offers the opportunity to lead a multi-country shared services model, modernise processes, and help drive a significant systems transformation programme, all while having visibility with senior group-level stakeholders and contributing to long-term strategy. You ll work in a complex, dynamic environment where innovation and operational excellence are encouraged and where your expertise will directly influence how the business delivers finance services across Northern Europe. You will: - Lead the Northern Europe Global Business Services function, overseeing delivery of accounting, reporting, and transactional finance services (AP, AR, treasury, general ledger) across multiple European countries. - Manage and develop a senior leadership team with responsibility for a wider network of c.100 finance professionals across the UK, Scandinavia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Poland and other regions. - Drive standardisation, digitisation and process improvement, ensuring compliance with IFRS, local GAAP and group policies. - Oversee period-end close and statutory reporting, coordinating with group functions and external auditors. - Build strong partnerships with local finance teams, group stakeholders and external advisors. - Optimise how and where finance activities are delivered to create a scalable, efficient operating model. - Play a key role in large-scale system transformation, including the ongoing S/4HANA rollout and associated data migration, testing and implementation projects. The ideal Head of Global Business Services Northern Europe will possess the following attributes/skills: - Senior finance leader with 10+ years experience in accounting/finance and several years leading a shared service or global business services organisation. - Proven ability to run large, distributed teams across multiple countries and manage change with discretion and empathy. - Strong technical knowledge of IFRS, local GAAPs and multi-country compliance. - Track record of finance process transformation, ERP implementation and operational excellence, SAP/S4HANA experience strongly preferred. - Excellent leadership, stakeholder management and project/change management skills, with a service-oriented mindset and intercultural awareness. - Professional qualification (e.g. ACCA, CIMA, CPA) desirable; fluent English essential (other European languages a plus). Why this is an excellent opportunity This is a strategic, career-defining role where you will help shape the future of a complex multi-entity finance organisation at one of Europe s most recognisable media and entertainment groups. You will gain senior leadership exposure, influence how finance is delivered across multiple countries, and lead transformation in a forward-thinking, evolving environment that rewards innovation and operational excellence. If your background matches the above, please do not hesitate to apply at your soonest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!
As a VP you will lead complex infrastructure financings and blend deal execution with strategic portfolio oversight. An opportunity to take ownership of high-profile transactions across Data Centres, Fibre Networks, Telecom Towers, in a team that values agility, innovation, and impact. You'll gain full visibility across the deal life-cycle and contribute to financing the backbone of Europe's digital economy. Client Details My client is known for its entrepreneurial mindset and client-focused approach with with a strong footprint in infrastructure lending. Their London-based team specializes in structuring and managing senior debt facilities for digital infrastructure projects across the UK, Ireland, and Southern Europe. Description Lead the execution of digital infrastructure projects to enhance operational efficiency, along with ongoing management of the existing portfolio. Lead end-to-end execution of senior debt transactions in digital infrastructure, particularly data centres, telecom towers and fibre networks. Manage due diligence processes, including financial model analysis, risk assessment, and advisor coordination. Oversee portfolio management for designated clients, including annual reviews, waivers, amendments, and internal ratings. Negotiate and review complex legal documentation for new and existing transactions. Represent the firm at lender meetings, site visits, and industry events. Maintain strong relationships with sponsors, advisors, and co-lenders Mentor junior team members and foster a collaborative team culture. Profile VP level candidates should have: At least 5 years' experience in infrastructure project finance, with exposure to Data centres, Fibre networks or telecom towers Strong knowledge of portfolio management and banking technology solutions. Proven leadership in deal execution and team coordination. Advanced financial modelling and scenario analysis skills. Deep understanding of project finance documentation and credit structuring. Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. Experience in conducting due diligence and risk analysis. A solid understanding of relevant market trends and regulations. A professional qualification or relevant degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Open to 'Youth Mobility Visa' candidates - additional sponsorship unlikely given quick turnaround Job Offer Fixed-term contract - quick turnaround - January start Work within a reputable organisation in the financial services industry. Opportunity to be based in London, a leading global financial hub. Open to 'Youth Mobility Visa' candidates - additional sponsorship unlikely given quick turnaround
Dec 03, 2025
Contractor
As a VP you will lead complex infrastructure financings and blend deal execution with strategic portfolio oversight. An opportunity to take ownership of high-profile transactions across Data Centres, Fibre Networks, Telecom Towers, in a team that values agility, innovation, and impact. You'll gain full visibility across the deal life-cycle and contribute to financing the backbone of Europe's digital economy. Client Details My client is known for its entrepreneurial mindset and client-focused approach with with a strong footprint in infrastructure lending. Their London-based team specializes in structuring and managing senior debt facilities for digital infrastructure projects across the UK, Ireland, and Southern Europe. Description Lead the execution of digital infrastructure projects to enhance operational efficiency, along with ongoing management of the existing portfolio. Lead end-to-end execution of senior debt transactions in digital infrastructure, particularly data centres, telecom towers and fibre networks. Manage due diligence processes, including financial model analysis, risk assessment, and advisor coordination. Oversee portfolio management for designated clients, including annual reviews, waivers, amendments, and internal ratings. Negotiate and review complex legal documentation for new and existing transactions. Represent the firm at lender meetings, site visits, and industry events. Maintain strong relationships with sponsors, advisors, and co-lenders Mentor junior team members and foster a collaborative team culture. Profile VP level candidates should have: At least 5 years' experience in infrastructure project finance, with exposure to Data centres, Fibre networks or telecom towers Strong knowledge of portfolio management and banking technology solutions. Proven leadership in deal execution and team coordination. Advanced financial modelling and scenario analysis skills. Deep understanding of project finance documentation and credit structuring. Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. Experience in conducting due diligence and risk analysis. A solid understanding of relevant market trends and regulations. A professional qualification or relevant degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Open to 'Youth Mobility Visa' candidates - additional sponsorship unlikely given quick turnaround Job Offer Fixed-term contract - quick turnaround - January start Work within a reputable organisation in the financial services industry. Opportunity to be based in London, a leading global financial hub. Open to 'Youth Mobility Visa' candidates - additional sponsorship unlikely given quick turnaround
The HR Director's key focus areas will include building leadership capability, driving a performance culture, and enhancing associate engagement. You will also lead on some key change aspects. This role is offered on a maternity cover basis - c.12-14 months - start in January 2026. We are keen to hear from candidates with demonstrable tenure at a senior HR level - HR Director or equivalent. Strong experience in FMCG or similar would be highly preferable. Client Details Our client operates within the FMCG sector and is recognised as a large organisation with a strong international market presence. It is known for its focus on delivering high-quality products and fostering a professional work environment. Description Reports to the General Manager for the UK&I cluster, other key stakeholders are VP HR Europe (dotted line reporting) and the local Plant Director. Located in Maidenhead office, with weekly/bi-weekly travel to plant site in Oxfordshire, and occasional travel to Amsterdam, Dublin and other European locations as required for meetings. Is responsible for motivating and inspiring a full team of 11 HR associates (including 6 direct reports). Is a key contributor to the company's European People Strategy The HR Director UK&I is accountable for managing the HR function within UK&I organisation. The Human Resource function acts as a facilitator for the company's vision in building leadership capability within the company, driving a performance culture and enhancing associate engagement. As such, the role is responsible for developing People strategy in the country, addressing and executing various HR and people aspects as compensation and benefits, talent and performance management, employee relations, associate engagement and DE&I. This in alignment with the overall company HR strategy and guidelines set by the central HR organisation. Key element of the UK&I HR Director role is to act as a business partner to local directors/managers, advising and challenging them on HR matters. Develops and implements HR strategy (HR programs, processes, tools and models) on a local level in accordance with the global company's HR strategy as well as local business targets and goals. Partners with the executive leadership to drive organisational change and workforce planning in line with business priorities. Leads implementation of various local and/or functional transformation projects and ensures they are appropriately resourced, structured and governed. Provides direction and coaching in driving teams' engagement, talent development, performance management, organisational structures and resourcing strategies. Champions a positive, inclusive organisational culture that aligns with company values and drives employee engagement and performance. Leads local talent acquisition and development activities and contribute to broader agenda within the region. Delivers HR metrics and ensures efficient and high-quality local HR services. Provides regular reporting to senior leadership for data-driven decision-making. Manages local employee relations (unions, works councils etc.) in cooperation with the GM and Plant in alignment with the central HR organisation. Develops competitive compensation structure and benefits within the global HR programs and guidelines. Contributes to DE&I agenda by supporting initiatives that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace. Exhibits a strong focus on people development within own area and consistently improves capabilities and engagement across teams. This role is offered on a hybrid basis - typically with 3 days per week onsite. Profile To apply for this role, your profile will closely match the following: Demonstrable blue chip experience in HR leadership roles at HR Director level or above. Ideally this will have been gained within the world of FMCG, but the client is open to other industries that align closely with FMCG. Team leadership: Experienced in leading a team of passionate and ambitious individuals working as a team to support the business in delivering business results and ensuring the highest level of engagement and compliance. Multiple stakeholder management: Experienced in management of a complex internal and external stakeholder network with different needs and priorities. Leadership skills: Recognisable capabilities to act on parity level with the senior management team and colleagues, solid influence skills. Required to continuously improve the organisational focus on the business development agenda. Result oriented: Ambitious and excellence driven individual striving for outstanding business results with a passion for details. Communication skills: Excellent communicator, persuasive, able to operate & collaborate at different levels inside and outside an international organisation. Strong influencing, motivation, and networking skills. Business acumen: Has a high energy level, is a self-starter, brings genuine new strategic and practical insights and ideas to the organisation, able to convert chances into opportunities, but has a good sense of risk management. Charismatic and empathic: Gains respect and trust based on his/her personality with employees at all levels. Is an experienced and trustworthy leader. You will be available at short notice and able to start this maternity cover role in January 2026. This role is offered on a hybrid basis - with 3 days per week onsite. The main base will be Maidenhead, with some travel to another UK site. There will also be some European travel too. Job Offer This role offers the following: Competitive salary. Car allowance of 9600. Eligible for the company bonus scheme. Pension - 5% employee, 10% employer. Holiday - 27 days (+3 available through holiday purchase) plus Bank Holidays. Private Medical - Single Cover AXA at this level. Health and wellbeing discounts. Private onsite gym free. Flexible Benefits platform.
Dec 02, 2025
Contractor
The HR Director's key focus areas will include building leadership capability, driving a performance culture, and enhancing associate engagement. You will also lead on some key change aspects. This role is offered on a maternity cover basis - c.12-14 months - start in January 2026. We are keen to hear from candidates with demonstrable tenure at a senior HR level - HR Director or equivalent. Strong experience in FMCG or similar would be highly preferable. Client Details Our client operates within the FMCG sector and is recognised as a large organisation with a strong international market presence. It is known for its focus on delivering high-quality products and fostering a professional work environment. Description Reports to the General Manager for the UK&I cluster, other key stakeholders are VP HR Europe (dotted line reporting) and the local Plant Director. Located in Maidenhead office, with weekly/bi-weekly travel to plant site in Oxfordshire, and occasional travel to Amsterdam, Dublin and other European locations as required for meetings. Is responsible for motivating and inspiring a full team of 11 HR associates (including 6 direct reports). Is a key contributor to the company's European People Strategy The HR Director UK&I is accountable for managing the HR function within UK&I organisation. The Human Resource function acts as a facilitator for the company's vision in building leadership capability within the company, driving a performance culture and enhancing associate engagement. As such, the role is responsible for developing People strategy in the country, addressing and executing various HR and people aspects as compensation and benefits, talent and performance management, employee relations, associate engagement and DE&I. This in alignment with the overall company HR strategy and guidelines set by the central HR organisation. Key element of the UK&I HR Director role is to act as a business partner to local directors/managers, advising and challenging them on HR matters. Develops and implements HR strategy (HR programs, processes, tools and models) on a local level in accordance with the global company's HR strategy as well as local business targets and goals. Partners with the executive leadership to drive organisational change and workforce planning in line with business priorities. Leads implementation of various local and/or functional transformation projects and ensures they are appropriately resourced, structured and governed. Provides direction and coaching in driving teams' engagement, talent development, performance management, organisational structures and resourcing strategies. Champions a positive, inclusive organisational culture that aligns with company values and drives employee engagement and performance. Leads local talent acquisition and development activities and contribute to broader agenda within the region. Delivers HR metrics and ensures efficient and high-quality local HR services. Provides regular reporting to senior leadership for data-driven decision-making. Manages local employee relations (unions, works councils etc.) in cooperation with the GM and Plant in alignment with the central HR organisation. Develops competitive compensation structure and benefits within the global HR programs and guidelines. Contributes to DE&I agenda by supporting initiatives that promote a diverse and inclusive workplace. Exhibits a strong focus on people development within own area and consistently improves capabilities and engagement across teams. This role is offered on a hybrid basis - typically with 3 days per week onsite. Profile To apply for this role, your profile will closely match the following: Demonstrable blue chip experience in HR leadership roles at HR Director level or above. Ideally this will have been gained within the world of FMCG, but the client is open to other industries that align closely with FMCG. Team leadership: Experienced in leading a team of passionate and ambitious individuals working as a team to support the business in delivering business results and ensuring the highest level of engagement and compliance. Multiple stakeholder management: Experienced in management of a complex internal and external stakeholder network with different needs and priorities. Leadership skills: Recognisable capabilities to act on parity level with the senior management team and colleagues, solid influence skills. Required to continuously improve the organisational focus on the business development agenda. Result oriented: Ambitious and excellence driven individual striving for outstanding business results with a passion for details. Communication skills: Excellent communicator, persuasive, able to operate & collaborate at different levels inside and outside an international organisation. Strong influencing, motivation, and networking skills. Business acumen: Has a high energy level, is a self-starter, brings genuine new strategic and practical insights and ideas to the organisation, able to convert chances into opportunities, but has a good sense of risk management. Charismatic and empathic: Gains respect and trust based on his/her personality with employees at all levels. Is an experienced and trustworthy leader. You will be available at short notice and able to start this maternity cover role in January 2026. This role is offered on a hybrid basis - with 3 days per week onsite. The main base will be Maidenhead, with some travel to another UK site. There will also be some European travel too. Job Offer This role offers the following: Competitive salary. Car allowance of 9600. Eligible for the company bonus scheme. Pension - 5% employee, 10% employer. Holiday - 27 days (+3 available through holiday purchase) plus Bank Holidays. Private Medical - Single Cover AXA at this level. Health and wellbeing discounts. Private onsite gym free. Flexible Benefits platform.
