Chief Financial Officer - Events/ Conference Industry
Position Type: Permanent, 4 day working week (4 day working week for 5 days’ pay!)
Working Pattern: Hybrid - 3 days in the office (Shepherds Bush), 1 day from home & every Friday is non working day as standard
We are This is Beyond. A fast-moving, fast-thinking and vibrant London-based B2B events company. We have grown from an ambitious start-up to a worldwide leader in creating both innovative and ground-breaking B2B events. We are considered thought leaders in the luxury travel industry, making a real impact by defining specific travel genres and building passionate communities around them.
Today our portfolio is made up of both revolutionary and category-smashing global travel trade shows, along with a fast-growing luxury membership club for the who’s who of luxury movers and shakers. We are obsessive about curating just the right crowd because there’s no substitute for great chemistry. Plus, we’re allergic to boring formats. So, expect exclusivity, expect inspiration, expect imaginative, immersive experiences that don’t feel like work! That’s exactly why they’re great for business.
The role:
Reporting to the CEO of This is Beyond, the CFO will have the mission to oversee the finance function for the business, including cash flow and financial planning, credit control, commercial finance, accounts receivable and accounts payable, international compliance as well as analysing the company’s financial strengths and weaknesses and proposing corrective actions.
As the Chief Financial Officer, you will play a critical role in the financial management and strategic decision-making process of our organization. You will be responsible for overseeing all financial operations, providing leadership to the finance team, and ensuring compliance with international tax regulations. This role requires a strong financial acumen, strategic mindset, and a deep understanding of the exhibition and conference industry. This is a key and pivotal role within our Senior Leadership Team and right at the heart of our organisation. You will be a strong & dynamic leader of innovation and a strong leader of people with the tenacity, vision and resilience to create strong foundations and evolve with the team. The ideal candidate for this role will have a roll your sleeves up attitude and demonstrable flexibility to jump from the operational to strategic matters on a day to day basis.
What you will do:
- Financial Management: Develop and implement financial strategies to drive business growth and profitability. Prepare and present accurate financial reports, including management accounts, budget analysis, and forecasts, to the executive team and board of directors. Oversee day-to-day financial operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and payroll.
- Financial and Commercial Strategy: Collaborate with the executive team to develop and execute the company's financial and commercial strategy. Identify opportunities for revenue growth, cost optimization, and operational efficiency. Provide strategic guidance and financial analysis for new business initiatives, product launches, and market expansions.
- International Tax Compliance: Ensure compliance with international tax regulations and oversee the company's tax planning and reporting activities. Liaise with external tax advisors to optimize tax strategies and manage tax risks associated with international operations.
- Digital Transformation: Drive digital transformation initiatives within the finance function, leveraging technology to improve efficiency, accuracy, and reporting capabilities. Identify opportunities for automation and process improvement to streamline financial operations.
- Merger and Acquisition (M&A) Activities: Lead financial due diligence for potential acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Evaluate financial viability, conduct financial modelling, and assess risks and opportunities. Collaborate with legal and business development teams to structure and negotiate M&A deals.
- Lead, manage and develop the internal finance team
What you will need:
Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. MBA or professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CFA) are highly desirable.
Proven experience (8+ years) in a senior financial leadership role within the events or exhibition/ conference industry or a related sector.
Strong knowledge of financial management principles, practices, and accounting standards.
In-depth understanding of international tax compliance and regulations.
Experience in driving digital transformation initiatives within the finance function.
Demonstrated expertise in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.
Proven track record of successfully leading M&A activities, including due diligence and integration processes.
Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.
Strong strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
Strong understanding of international finance including VAT/GST practice on an international level as well as transfer pricing.
A strategic thinker with experience of engaging/managing multiple key stakeholders at varied business levels.
A passionate self-starter with excellent leadership, communication skills and attention to detail; alongside being highly organised to run multiple projects at once.
A forward looking ‘ hands-on’ way of working, constantly questioning what we do, who has a resilient and agile approach - always up for a challenge with a smile and willingness to have fun.
Benefits: Pension, 4 day working week (no working on Friday). Hybrid working (3 days in the office per week), ongoing learning & development, social events & travel opportunities.
This is Beyond is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to diversity and inclusion. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic.
