Contract Type: Permanent

Please read the job description below before applying. If you’re interested in being a part of an innovative new enterprise in the heart of motion picture and television, send your CV and a Cover Letter to our team at careers@studioulster.com.

Deadline for submissions is 31 August 2024.

Introduction and Background

Studio Ulster Ltd is a ground-breaking large-scale Virtual Production creative technology company established in early 2024 and launching to market in Q4 2024 in Northern Ireland.

This new company will provide world-class In-Camera Visual Effects (ICVFX) in one of the most advanced LED Volume Stages, Motion Capture Stage, and 3D/4D Scanning stages currently being built anywhere in the world. This scalable facility will support virtual production solutions and productions of any size located at Belfast Harbour Studios, only 10 minutes’ drive from Belfast City Centre. Anticipated clients include some of the biggest production companies globally as well as the local and national screen industry contracts across a range of sectors.

Studio Ulster is a £75m+, ($100m) 75,000ft² Virtual Production Studio complex and will also be home to one of the most advanced virtual production research facilities in this area. The CoSTAR Screen Lab is a UKRI / AHRC funded creative technologies lab focusing on real-time production and, on its own, unlocks nearly £11m of research investment in the sector.

Studio Ulster Ltd now wishes to retain the service of a Chief Financial Officer who will offer financial leadership in the foundational years of the business and beyond. This critical role will steer the financial helm of the operation and be responsible for the external facing financial reporting, stewardship of the company’s assets, and ownership of the cash management processes. The CFO will oversee the day-to-day accounting and the smooth running of the financial operations. The CFO will also have extensive experience of senior financial management in large scale private sector companies.

Job Purpose

As the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Studio Ulster, you will assume a role of paramount importance, steering the financial helm of the organisation. Your duties will extend beyond traditional financial management, delving into strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and pioneering financial practices in the sphere of virtual production. The CFO will need to possess not only an astute financial acumen but also a visionary mindset to navigate the unique landscape of our innovative sector.

Key Duties

Lead in the formulation of the company's financial strategy, encompassing aspects like risk minimisation, financial forecasting, investment planning, and opportunity analysis.
Conduct comprehensive financial reporting, delivering insightful analysis that drives decision-making at the highest levels of the organisation.
Establish rigorous budgeting and financial operations processes, ensuring optimal allocation and utilisation of resources.
Implement robust financial systems and processes, focusing on scalability and efficiency in support of the company's growth trajectory.
Guarantee compliance with statutory law and financial regulations, navigating the complexities of the creative technology sector.
Engage with senior executives, contributing to the development and refinement of growth strategies and organisational plans.
Manage and negotiate significant vendor relationships and contracts, ensuring advantageous terms and fostering beneficial partnerships.
Provide thought leadership on long-term business and financial planning, reflecting both the current financial landscape and future industry trends.
Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including senior management, external partners, investors, and industry associates.
Support and advise the CEO and senior leadership in financial governance compliance.

Minimum Requirements

Accredited professional qualification in Finance (ACA, ACCA, CMA or equivalent).
Minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior financial management role, with a demonstrated trajectory of increasing responsibility and complexity.
Proven track record at a senior level in the private sector or related industries such as creative technologies, film, television, gaming, or animation.
Demonstrable understanding of public sector and financial management of large grant-based funding.
Deep understanding of financial analysis, accounting principles, and industry-specific financial needs.
Extensive knowledge of statutory legislation, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
Advanced proficiency in finance software and technological tools pertinent to financial management and analysis.
Exceptional interpersonal skills, with an emphasis on relationship building, negotiation, and persuasive communication.
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team, ensuring the highest standards of financial integrity and operational excellence.
Comprehensive grasp of financial statistics, accounting principles, and their application in a dynamic business environment.
A track record of developing and implementing successful financial management strategies and business plans.
Proven analytical and strategic-thinking skills, with the capacity to interpret complex data and translate it into actionable insights.
Prior experience in a start-up environment, particularly in a high-growth, technology-centric business.
In-depth awareness of current and emerging financial management trends within the creative technology and entertainment industries.
MBA or Post Graduate degree in Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Experience in international finance, especially in contexts relevant to production or creative industries.
Demonstrated success in securing funding, managing investor relations, and financial negotiations.
Familiarity with the role of digital transformation in modern finance departments.
Established network within financial, technological, and creative sectors, facilitating partnership and business development opportunities.

Studio Ulster offers a competitive salary package that is commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate. This package includes a comprehensive benefits suite and bonuses which aligns with the industry standards and reflects our commitment to the wellbeing of our team.

We welcome applications from all members of society, irrespective of age, disability, sexual orientation, race, gender, religion, or belief. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

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Studio Ulster

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