FP&A Manager – London, N1C 4AG

Who We Are – The Finance Team at Universal Music Group UK 

At Universal Music UK, our Finance team is at the heart of the business, providing key insights and financial analysis to drive decision-making. We are a collaborative and dynamic team that partners with all areas of the company, ensuring financial transparency and supporting the long-term success of our artists, labels, and commercial teams. 

Our Role in Universal Music Group 

As part of the world’s leading music company, the Finance team plays a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of Universal Music UK. We are responsible for financial planning, forecasting, reporting, and analysis to support the company’s creative and commercial ambitions. By providing clear and insightful financial data, we help our labels and business units make informed decisions that drive profitability and growth. 

The Opportunity – Your Role as FP&A Manager  

As FP&A Manager, you will play a pivotal role in driving financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis across Universal Music UK. You will work closely with senior stakeholders, including Finance Directors and Business Unit Heads, providing insights that support strategic decision-making. Your role will be instrumental in ensuring financial targets are met and that financial data is used effectively to optimize business performance. 

A Day in the Life at UMG UK 

Your day as an FP&A Manager will be varied and dynamic, and may include: 

• Leading financial planning cycles, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning. 

• Partnering with key business units to provide financial insights and recommendations. 

• Preparing and presenting financial reports to senior leadership. 

• Conducting variance analysis and identifying key business trends. 

• Supporting strategic initiatives with data-driven insights and scenario modelling. 

• Collaborating with Finance, Commercial, and Label teams to drive operational efficiency. 

What Impact Will You Make? 

This role is central to ensuring Universal Music UK operates efficiently and profitably. By providing accurate and insightful financial analysis, you will help shape strategic decisions that impact our artists, labels, and commercial teams. Your work will enable the business to identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and drive financial success in an ever-evolving music industry. 

Your Key Responsibilities 

• Own the financial planning and forecasting processes, ensuring accurate and timely submissions. 

• Provide in-depth financial analysis, including P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow reporting. 

• Partner with stakeholders to develop financial models and scenario planning. 

• Identify risks and opportunities, providing recommendations for mitigation or capitalisation. 

• Support month-end and quarter-end reporting, delivering insightful variance analysis. 

• Develop and maintain dashboards and KPIs to track business performance. 

• Drive process improvements and automation in financial reporting. 

• Collaborate with Finance, Commercial, and Label teams to align financial strategy with business objectives. 

Who We’re Looking For 

We welcome candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for music, culture, and innovation. We believe that diversity of thought drives innovation, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive. 

Skills and Attributes 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data. 

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. 

• Commercial acumen, with an understanding of key business drivers. 

• Highly proficient in financial modelling and scenario planning. 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. 

• Strong attention to detail with a proactive, solutions-focused mindset. 

• Advanced Excel and financial reporting tools expertise; experience with SAP or similar systems is advantageous. 

Experience and Qualifications 

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA) or equivalent experience. 

• Proven experience in FP&A or financial analysis, ideally within media, entertainment, or a fast-paced commercial environment. 

• Experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes. 

• Experience working with senior stakeholders and influencing decision-making. 

• Knowledge of the music or entertainment industry is a plus but not essential. 

Why Join Us? 

At Universal Music UK, we are passionate about music and innovation. We offer a creative and collaborative work environment, opportunities for career development, and the chance to work with some of the biggest names in the industry. If you’re a finance professional looking to make a real impact in a dynamic and fast-moving business, we’d love to hear from you.