Director Production Finance

Sphere Entertainment Co. (NYSE: SPHR) is a premier live entertainment and media company. The Company includes Sphere, a next-generation entertainment medium powered by cutting-edge technologies to redefine the future of entertainment. The first Sphere venue in Las Vegas opened in September 2023. In addition, the Company includes MSG Networks, which operates two regional sports and entertainment networks, MSG Network and MSG Sportsnet, as well as a direct-to-consumer and authenticated streaming product, MSG+, delivering a wide range of live sports content and other programming. More information is available at sphereentertainmentco.com.

Who are we hiring?

The Director, Production Finance will oversee the preparation of development and production cost financials for Sphere Studios. This role will be responsible for managing financial documentation, production accounting operations, and assisting in cashflow management across Film Experiences, Musical Act Residencies, and Corporate Events. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and bring a background in production finance and accounting.

What will you do? 

• Prepare production budgets, cashflow schedules and cost reports for Sphere Studios Productions.
• Manage, streamline, and optimize production accounting operations and systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
• Review and validate production budgets, ensuring correct estimates and reporting against actuals.
• Support production accountants throughout project lifecycles, ensuring accurate cost tracking, documentation, and reconciliation to the G/L.
• Oversee the setup of show production systems, including bank accounts, payroll, and accounting hubs.
• Liaise with prep/post accountants to process accounts payable and payroll during development, prep, and wrap phases.
• Ensure compliance with Production Accounting Policies & Procedures
• Ensure the auditing and archiving of all digital documentation for production.
• Coordinate documentation and responses for auditor requests (3rd party, financial, and SOX).
• Conduct ad hoc financial analyses and reporting for production-related projects as needed.
• Additional duties as assigned

What do you need to succeed? 

• 8+ years of production finance experience, with a proven track record in entertainment industry production.
• Strong knowledge of industry systems and software required, including Movie Magic Budgeting, PSL+, Cast and Crew, EP Smart Accounting and Excel.
• Exceptional analytical and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Clear, effective communication skills for collaborating across various departments.
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset and a passion for navigating change and driving creative solutions.
• Experience in production accounting or auditing is highly preferred.
• Familiarity with industry tax incentives and the financial management of large-scale productions.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational and multitasking abilities.
• High attention to detail with excellent research and documentation skills.
• Solution-oriented mindset with a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.

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