Senior Commercial Finance Business Partner - 12 Month FTC

at  Financial Times

ABOUT US

The Financial Times is one of the world’s leading news organisations, globally recognised for its authority, integrity and accuracy, with a mission to deliver quality information and services worldwide.
At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.
In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.
Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.
Build a newsworthy career at the FT.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Ability to lead discussions, present complex ideas clearly, and engage varied audiences effectively.
• Skilled in building collaborative partnerships with stakeholders across all levels to facilitate alignment and goal achievement.
• Capable of persuading stakeholders, supported by evidence-based recommendations.
• Proficient in handling large datasets, with expertise in financial modelling (advanced Excel essential).
• An inspiring people manager, dedicated to setting high standards and fostering team growth.
• Adept at anticipating and resolving issues through structured planning and prioritisation.
• Open to diverse perspectives and committed to knowledge-sharing for continuous improvement.

THE ROLE

Reporting to the Senior Finance Manager, the Senior Commercial Finance Business Partner leads day-to-day financial management, producing insightful financial reporting, analysis, planning, and forecasting for two departments: the Consumer Revenue Group (CRG) and Strategic Partnerships.
CRG encompasses Marketing, Customer Care, and Business Development, focusing on FT’s individual consumer subscriber revenues and profitability. Strategic Partnerships is an agile team creating unique opportunities at the intersection of content, audience, technology, and commercial initiatives, including FT Schools, Infosys, and Headspring.
As a trusted partner, you will collaborate with business leadership and their teams, provide analysis to guide decision-making, communicate timely financial performance, highlight opportunities, and support data-driven strategy development in a dynamic media and digital landscape. This is an exciting opportunity for a finance leader to make their mark in a world-renowned company.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work closely with the commercial teams, developing a deep understanding of their models, goals, and market environment to contribute effectively to business strategy.
• Deliver robust financial models for complex business plans, assessing growth opportunities and recommending optimal actions.
• Oversee financial processes, including weekly, monthly, and quarterly results reporting and analysis, to provide leadership with clear, actionable insights.
• Proactively identify risks and opportunities, quantifying their impact and supporting leadership in taking corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with teams to build data-driven forecasts, annual operating plans, and 6-year strategic plans aligned with business ambitions.
• Work with Data Analytics to track and report KPIs, developing new metrics to measure success effectively.
• Manage relevant Balance Sheet accounts, maintain accurate records, conduct monthly reviews, and ensure compliance with Group Finance policies.
• Act as the main contact for external audits in the CRG and Strategic Partnerships, managing documentation and resolving issues.
• Lead and develop a team of two high-performing direct reports, focusing on coaching and growth.
• Conduct additional analytics and support projects relevant to commercial finance and business priorities.