Head of Finance Part-Time, Art Studio

Contemporary art studio dedicated to fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation in the art world are looking for a highly skilled and motivated Part-Time Head of Finance to join their team and oversee the financial management of the studio.

Role Overview:
As the Head of Finance, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the financial health and strategic growth of our art studio. You will manage the day-to-day financial operations, provide insightful financial analysis, and contribute to key decisions that drive the future of the studio. This is a flexible, part-time role, ideally suited for someone with a passion for both finance and the arts, and who thrives in a dynamic, creative environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Optimise the group's financial health and sustainability.
• Provide financial leadership and align business and finance strategies with the founders'
• Act as a financial and relationship partner to advisors, clients, galleries, museums, and investors.

Financial Operations and Oversight

• Review, optimise, and negotiate financial and finance-related terms with the studio's clients.
• Assess and manage risks, debt, and revenue streams.
• Oversee balance sheets, income statements, and cash management.
• Generate detailed and accurate financial reports at both company-wide and project-specific levels for directors, business partners, and external stakeholders.
• Manage cash flow, including projections and ensuring funds availability.
• Maintain strong banking relationships and strategic alliances with vendors and business partners.

Compliance and Reporting

• Prepare and oversee annual filings for the UK and assist in the phased closure of the studio's German entity.
• Supervise the preparation and filing of VAT returns (with support from the Finance Assistant).
• Ensure compliance with HMRC PAYE regulations.
• Keep the studio's financial processes aligned with best business practices and industry standards.

Budgeting and Analysis

• Lead regular forecasting and budgeting meetings with project teams.
• Conduct financial analysis of performance, projects, and budgets to provide actionable insights.
• Prepare and oversee monthly management reports and financial analyses.

Team Leadership and Development

• Direct and manage finance staff, ensuring appropriate motivation, development, and performance standards.
• Provide financial advice and guidance to production managers and staff to support their goals.
• Develop and maintain effective financial systems and procedures for streamlined management.

Operational and Contractual Management

• Monitor external contracts and services provided by suppliers, ensuring effectiveness and value in collaboration with the production manager.
• Ensure the company meets all financial and legal obligations, taking necessary actions as required.
• Administer payroll processes efficiently and accurately.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in financial management, preferably within creative industries or project-based environments.
• Strong understanding of financial regulations and compliance requirements in the UK (experience with international entities is a plus).
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to build and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with cash flow management, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Leadership experience, including team management and development.
• Advanced proficiency in financial software and tools.
• This is an exciting opportunity to take on a leadership role at a globally recognised contemporary art studio, contributing to the financial and strategic growth of the organis

Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.