Assistant Production Accountant

The Role The main function of this role is to provide production finance support for the C4 Newsroom, focusing on the reporting and analysis of news production spend. And, to provide financial reporting support and analysis to the C4N Finance Manager. A key output is a regular weekly variance report for the business to manage their news production budgets and to make timely decisions on spend. Working closely and managing relationships with the business is key to this role, aiding cost capture and accurate reporting as well as a real understanding of all news production related costs. This is a responsive role, with fast changing priorities. Interviews for this role will take place week commencing 25th May 2026 Key Responsibilities Production Reporting/Support and Management Accounting Aid the C4 Newsroom Production manager in the compilation and analysis of news production costs using cost managers; providing support to the business, particularly the Production Manager & Newsroom coordinators, to ensure accurate cost management Ensure all C4 Newsroom cost managers are kept up to date with actual spend, estimated final costs and costs to complete Reconcile cost managers on a fortnightly basis to the finance system Compile and agree (with PM/HoB) monthly figures to assist the Finance Manager - Newsrooms in the C4 News month end Preparation of regular and ad hoc news production reports to be reviewed by the Finance Manager - Newsrooms and reported to the Operations & Finance Director, Heads of Business & C4 Editor Compile and agree (with PM/HoB) monthly figures to assist the Finance Manager in the C4 News month end Attendance of regular production meetings within the Newsroom to ensure understanding of coverage activity and aid cost capture Preparation of P&L and Balance Sheet accounting entries including accruals and prepayments Assist with the preparation of news production budgets and forecasts Reconciliation of actual news production spend to budgets/forecasts Responsible for understanding the news production budget/forecast variances and contributing to the commentary in the management accounts and flagging any risks or concerns with productions Monthly balance sheet reconciliations Support and prepare cost analysis for C4 News Film Fund Responsibility for checking and accurately coding invoices, facilitating invoice authorisation on a timely basis and dealing with any related queries Support with cash advances/transfers and related queries Proactively engage to improve cost capture and management Assist and prepare clear, concise working papers and files for external audit review yearly (and client audits) in line with given deadlines. Assist with audit queries Other Be a Team player, offering ad hoc support to news production and the wider Finance Team Be proactively involved in the successful rollout of the ERP Finance System, particularly the production accounting system, ensuring it is fit for purpose for the Newsroom teams Proactively involved in the implementation of new production/finance processes. Proactively participate in the wider adoption of purchase orders across the Newsrooms Participate in training offered to the business in relation to finance systems and finance processes Record and maintain up to date detailed process notes for month end processes and other routine tasks Identify process efficiencies to potentially reduce the month-end timetable and develop streamlined reporting for business stakeholders Provide direction and support to more junior members of the Finance Team Support finance leadership on ad hoc projects and analyses as required Assist in the preparation and collection of data relating to Albert Sustainable Production Certification These are the main requirements of the role and is not an exhaustive list of duties. It is intended to reflect the nature, range, and context of the work, which will change over time. Key Requirements Production Accounting experience Ideally a Bachelor's degree, a professional accounting/part qualified AAT would be beneficial A genuine interest in, and knowledge of, the UK and global news agenda A good understanding of newsgathering logistics and broadcast/newsgathering technology Experience working in a fast-paced environment Ability to work calmly under pressure Flexible worker with a positive approach to problem-solving A good organisational approach, with the ability to multi-task while retaining attention to detail Good communicator able to use initiative and be confident making decisions Awareness and understanding of the financial implications of all decision making Strong Excel & IT skills essential Excellent verbal and written communication skills Confident, proactive can-do attitude Interpersonal skills and ability to deal with a broad range of people including both finance and non-finance stakeholders Ability to prioritise workload, operate under their own initiative and work to deadlines