Senior Finance Lead

Role Overview

As a key member of the Finance team at Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI), the Senior Finance Lead will play a pivotal role in delivering timely, accurate, and insightful financial reporting and analysis. This position is responsible for driving the budgeting, forecasting, and month-end close processes, while also acting as a strategic business partner—particularly to the Marketing function—providing financial insights that support data-driven decision-making and long-term value creation. This role requires a commercially astute finance professional with strong analytical capabilities, excellent communication skills, and a proven ability to influence senior stakeholders. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and demonstrate a proactive, hands-on approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Lead the preparation and consolidation of monthly management accounts and Group reporting packs within tight deadlines.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data, including KPI analysis for Board and shareholder reporting.
• Support external audit processes and ensure compliance with IFRS and National Lottery License reporting obligations.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Deliver high-quality financial analysis and performance insights across revenue, cost, margin, ROI, and free cash flow.
• Partner with the Marketing team to evaluate campaign performance, monitor KPIs, and assess value for money.
• Develop and maintain robust financial models to support forecasting and scenario planning.

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the annual budget and rolling forecast processes, including 3-year and 10-year strategic financial planning.
• Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights for senior leadership and Group stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for cost optimisation and operational efficiency.

Strategic Business Support

• Provide financial input into strategic initiatives, investment appraisals, and capital planning.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to support commercial decision-making and revenue forecasting.
• Present financial insights to senior leadership and Group executives in a clear and compelling manner.

Process Improvement & Innovation

• Drive continuous improvement in financial planning processes, systems, and reporting tools.
• Implement user-friendly dashboards to enhance financial visibility and accountability across the business.
• Lead or support ad hoc projects, including system upgrades and automation initiatives.

Candidate Profile

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent), ideally with Top 10 training.
• Minimum 3–4 years post-qualification experience in a senior finance role within a commercial environment.
• Proven expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling.
• Strong Excel and PowerPoint skills; Power BI and SQL experience is advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to work with complex data sets and deliver actionable insights.

Skills & Attributes

• Commercially minded with strong business acumen.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a public company environment.
• Self-motivated, collaborative, and results-oriented.

Leadership & Behavioural Competencies

• Ownership & Accountability: Takes full responsibility for outcomes and proactively seeks solutions.
• Collaboration: Builds strong relationships across teams and levels, fostering a culture of respect and teamwork.
• Results-Driven: Maintains a sharp focus on key performance drivers and business outcomes.
• Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment with a test-and-learn mindset.
• Initiative: Demonstrates a proactive approach and the ability to work independently.
• Data-Driven: Uses metrics and analysis to inform decisions and measure success.
• Cultural Fit: Embodies integrity, professionalism, and a passion for excellence.