Head of Finance Operations, Hospitality and Leisure, London/Bristol, 85-95k

About the Role

A leading international Leisure and Hospitality company is seeking a highly skilled and driven Head of Finance Operations to lead a team of ~25 across Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Credit Control, Systems Administration, and Process Improvement. You’ll ensure smooth transactional finance, robust controls, and operational excellence across a group of 59 entities in 9 countries.

This role plays a critical part in driving process efficiency, system improvements, and supporting business-wide transformation projects. You’ll work closely with internal and external stakeholders to optimise technology, streamline processes, and lead change initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and manage a high-performing team (~25 people), setting vision, culture, and structure.
• Oversee full transactional finance operations, including ledger ownership, reconciliations, journal approvals, and period-end close.
• Establish and maintain a strong financial control environment, driving process efficiency and automation.
• Act as the Finance Operations lead for business-wide projects, providing subject-matter expertise.
• Manage risk through enforcing policies on purchasing, expenses, and credit control.
• Ensure compliance with multi-jurisdictional accounting and reporting requirements.
• Oversee utilisation and optimisation of finance systems, supporting continuous improvement.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience leading transactional finance operations and managing teams.
• Strong technical knowledge across AP, AR, credit control, and financial controls.
• Advanced Excel skills; comfortable working with data and systems.
• Experience working with multi-jurisdictional entities and VAT principles.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Hands-on, proactive, and solutions-driven approach.

Desirable:

• Oracle NetSuite experience.
• Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Background in travel, hospitality, or multi-entity businesses.