Financial Controller

Alexandra Palace is partnering exclusively with Robertson Bell in their search for a permanent Financial Controller. Alexandra Palace is one of London’s most iconic destinations. For over 150 years, it has stood as a beacon of creativity, community and culture - home to world-first innovations, unforgettable entertainment and open access to green space across 196 acres of parkland in North London.

The Financial Controller is a key role within the Finance team, supporting the Finance Director to deliver a high-quality, efficient and forward-thinking finance function across a uniquely diverse, highly commercial and operationally complex organisation.

The role:

• Support the Finance Director in delivering a robust and effective finance function, providing technical expertise and operational leadership across the organisation.
• Lead the preparation of statutory financial statements and play a central role in managing the annual audit process, liaising with external auditors and stakeholders.
• Drive the implementation of a new accounting system, improving processes, reporting capability and financial insight across the organisation.
• Oversee balance sheet reconciliations, financial controls and process improvements to ensure accuracy, transparency and strong governance.
• Lead on payroll financial control and reporting, ensuring data integrity and robust processes.
• Prepare and monitor cash flow forecasts across multiple entities, identifying risks and supporting decision-making.
• Provide financial leadership on capital projects, supporting accounting and financial oversight of major developments on site.
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of VAT and other statutory returns.
• Support the development of the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration and strong financial awareness across the organisation.

The organisation:

Today, Alexandra Park and Palace Charitable Trust is the custodian of this extraordinary site. As a charity, they are committed to safeguarding its heritage while continually evolving their offer to meet the needs of today’s audiences and communities. More than 4 million people visit each year to enjoy a dynamic mix of live events, festivals, exhibitions, learning and engagement programmes and community initiatives.

Operating with a blended income model - combining commercial income, public funding and philanthropic support the organisation offers a complex, engaging environment where finance plays a crucial role in enabling sustainable growth and delivering public value.

Essential criteria:

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent) with significant relevant experience
• Demonstrable experience in a Financial Controller or similar role within a complex organisation
• Experience preparing statutory accounts within the charity / not-for-profit sector
• Experience managing external audits and working closely with auditors
• Strong financial control and balance sheet management experience
• Experience leading or supporting finance system implementation or process improvement
• Proven line management experience and ability to develop teams
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain financial information to non-finance stakeholders

This role will be based at Alexandra Palace with regular on-site presence required to support collaboration across the organisation.

The closing date for applications is 12th March, with first stage interviews scheduled for 19th–20th March and second stage interviews 26^th-27th March.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis ahead of the closing date, so please submit your CV to Robertson Bell, the exclusive recruitment partner, to be considered.