Finance Business Partner - Legal, Exec & SPD

Location:  Poole, Basingstoke, London/Hybrid

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Contract: FTC - Late 2026 End Date 

The Finance Business Partner for Legal, Executive and Management Contracts is a strategic role, responsible for partnering with senior business leaders across functions to drive financial performance and support the company's growth and strategic goals. This role involves oversight of financial analysis, business insights, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial decision-making within functions. The role is key in providing actionable financial advice to business leaders, ensuring optimal resource allocation, and influencing the strategic direction of the company’s operations in Legal, Executive and Management contract areas as well as other corporate entities.

As a Finance function at Merlin, we take immense pride in how we work with our colleagues to help deliver the business’ strategic goals and ultimately a great guest experience. This role embodies the essence of business partnering and will be a critical enabler of success for our business. 

Strategic Financial Leadership

• Support in the creation and execution of a finance strategy tailored to the supported functions, aligning with Merlin’s broader business goals, focusing on financial performance, budgeting, forecasting, and long-term strategic planning. 
• Act as a strategic advisor to leadership across functions, providing insights on financial performance, business planning, opportunities, and organisational development. 
• Collaborate with budget holders across central functions, ensuring that finance initiatives are tailored to meet business needs while maintaining alignment with overall corporate objectives. 

Financial Planning & Analysis 

• Support in the creation of financial models and forecasts, providing accurate and timely financial insights to guide strategic decision-making. 
• Lead the budgeting process for functions, ensuring alignment with business goals and providing recommendations on cost optimisation and resource allocation. 
• Provide deep analysis of financial performance, highlighting key drivers, risks, and opportunities to improve profitability. 

Operational Excellence 

• Preparation of timely and accurate financial reports, presenting insights to business leaders and stakeholders, and advising on any financial implications or actions needed. 
• Develop and track key financial performance metrics to monitor and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of business operations. 

Risk and Compliance Management

• Identify and manage financial risks within functions, ensuring compliance with local regulations, corporate governance standards, and industry best practices. 
• Ensure that financial controls and processes are optimised and aligned with regional and global policies. 

Finance Partners 

• Collaborate with regional finance teams to ensure consistency in financial practices, have knowledge in spend drivers and ensure alignment on functional planning in regions. 
• Work closely with Finance Hub & Group Financial Accounts on matters such as month end, accounting treatments and balance sheet. Group FP&A & BI for reporting related matters. 
• Address complex financial queries and concerns raised by senior business leaders and operational teams. 

• Typically, 8+ years of experience in finance roles, with at least 3-5 years in a financial leadership position.
• Proven experience in business partnering, financial analysis, and strategic planning, particularly within a large, multinational company.
• Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field; relevant certifications (e.g., ACCA, CPA) preferred. 

• Merlin Magic Pass - 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
• 33 days holiday (including bank holidays)
• Company bonus
• Private pension scheme
• 40% discount online off LEGO
• 25% discount in our on-site retail shops and restaurants
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Plus, many more…

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at Recruitment@Merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.