Senior Finance Analyst

Be you, be here, be part of the story!

At The Walt Disney Company, magic is more than just a word; it's a way of life. For a century, we've been inspiring imaginations, celebrating diversity, and bringing families together through our beloved stories, characters, and experiences. From our iconic theme parks and resorts to our groundbreaking films, television shows, interactive media and products, we're dedicated to creating magic that knows no bounds.

We are looking for an enthusiastic Senior Finance Analyst to make a significant impact and be part of a dynamic team. Join us in shaping the magic behind the scenes!

As part of the Regional EMEA Softlines Finance Team, the team is accountable for providing commercial, business development and financial planning support to the Softlines EMEA Category teams

This is an office-based role. 4 days working in the Hammersmith, London office with 1 day working from home (Monday or Friday).

What You Will Do

Fp&a

Support the quarterly forecast and close process for the EMEA Softlines business. This includes;

• Ensuring all templates (licensee / category / upload) are set up accurately and on time
• Reviewing licensee / category forecasts and ensuring these are uploaded accurately
• Collaborating closely with the local market Finance teams and communicating regional deadlines
• Managing key reporting tools for the Regional and local Finance teams to use
• Provide / gather commentary on reasons for variances to prior periods and how business is trading across brands, retailers, and markets
• Tracking of the true-ups/downs from licensee reporting, following the quarter close
• Prepare all vital schedules and support Manager on analysis, presentation decks, explanations, and ad-hoc requests in relation to the AOP, Forecast and Close cycles
• Lead Close and Forecast meetings for remit as agreed with SFM

Licensee reporting / systems

• Working closely with revenue accounting to manage postings, flagging issues as needed
• Conduct Guarantee shortfall analysis
• Understanding of Royalty Reporting system (SRR), its impact on financials and business operations, and support category teams in ensuring licensees report statements in a timely manner
• Use of key existing systems (LRS, Invision) and engagement in developing, implementing and championing new forecast tool due to be rolled out by end of CY24

Commercial Support

• Build strong working relationships with Category team, including Directors
• Work closely with the Regional Softlines Finance and Commercial team to provide updates and analysis / bespoke projects on the performance of the Softlines business by licensee, retailer, sub category, market, and franchise
• Assist the Softlines Commercial team with the management of their key partners including business plan preparation for contract renewals and key account decks
• Analysis of market data (e.g. Kantar, Global Data and Euromonitor) to help assist with decision-making.
• Ad hoc analysis and reporting as required.

Team

• Manage day-to-day workload and review of intern
• Work collaboratively with the Finance Analyst, providing mentoring as needed
• Support SFM on results, key priorities and taking ownership of discrete areas as recommended

Training and Professional Development

• Operate as part of an effective and inclusive team by demonstrating an awareness of others; welcoming and valuing outstanding perspectives and ideas; offering support, sharing knowledge and best practices to contribute to overall departmental commitments.
• Take ownership of your professional development through regular career conversations with line manager and utilising available resources such as D Learn, instructor-led courses and on the job learning.
• Proactively suggest ways to improve departmental performance and processes, maximising technological tools where applicable.
• Promote and maintain an inclusive work environment, championing diversity and inclusion and making use of available resources to extend knowledge and best practice

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Degree level and accounting qualification are required
• Experience in an equivalent Finance role in FP&A, supporting commercial teams
• Experience working within the retail / licensing sector preferably for a multinational corporation
• Proven track record of providing commercial support to a business partner that’s insightful, timely and responsive.

The Perks

• 25 days annual leave
• Private medical insurance & dental care
• Free Park Entry: You will have the opportunity to enter any of our parks with your family and friends for free
• Disney Discounts: you are entitled to discounts on designated Disney products, resort F&B and ticketing
• Disney+ Subscription
• Excellent parental and guardian leave
• Employee Resource Groups – WOMEN @ Disney, Disney DIVERSITY, Disney PRIDE, ENABLED, and our Mental Health & Wellbeing Group, TRUST.

The Walt Disney Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We strive to be a diverse workforce that is representative of our audiences, and where all can thrive and belong. Disney is committed to forming a team that includes and respects a variety of voices, identities, backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.