CFO

Organization

Off the Fence, an award-winning production and distribution company known for its compelling documentaries and high-quality factual content, is seeking a visionary CFO. As Off the Fence continues to expand its global footprint and influence, the company needs a strategic leader to drive financial management and ensure sustainable growth. In this role you will have a key role in the management and the execution of the strategy of this creative and innovative company. 

Off the Fence was established in 1994 and is owned by ZDF Studios since 2019, the commercial arm of German public service broadcaster ZDF. As a 360° content company, Off the Fence produces, acquires, localizes and distributes non-fiction programming. Off the Fence is dedicated to quality, which is evident in the non-fiction programming it creates, represents, and helps bring to life. This commitment to excellence is also reflected in the company's long-term relationships with top broadcasters and producers globally. With its main office in the center of Amsterdam and commercial/creative offices in London and Toronto and a production site in Bristol, Off the Fence is well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of its clients across various business models and geographies. The company has strong growth ambitions and currently employs an international team of around 80 FTE as well as many freelancers. 

The job profile

As the new CFO of Off the Fence, you will play a key role in building the financial backbone and the next growth phase of this Academy Award winning studio! You are able to facilitate change and transformation, while enhancing financial stewardship, transparency, risk, compliance and performance. You will form the Executive Board of Off the Fence, together with the CEO and COO. A challenging and broad CFO role, in a world of passionate creatives!

Under your leadership, you will shape a stable financial landscape that is “in control”. You will build a strong performing team (around 3 FTE) and are able to financially oversee the organization including all projects which will range from fully financed programs to coproductions to acquisitions and distribution deals. You like the complexity and varying nature of these different projects, with different finance structures and business models. You understand the lifecycle of content and all financial processes related thereto from investment in new IP to royalty reporting in the course of IP exploitation. You are strong with liquidity planning and cash flow forecasting. You oversee the possible risks both on project and corporate level and know how to mitigate them appropriately.  In the next phase, you transform the finance department into an involved business partner, who is at the heart of the organization. Open and transparent communication is essential with all creatives in the company and the different stakeholders. 

"In this entrepreneurial and creative setting, no day will be the same. This requires a "can-do" mentality and a flexible attitude. Someone who is action-oriented, can set priorities for themselves and the team and takes responsibility. The pace is high and you are expected to take initiative. But you are also someone with an open and likeable personality, who is able to switch with different stakeholders, can involve others in changes and can create support. Above all, we are looking for someone who can make the team excel from his or her seniority and really takes responsibility for OTF’s figures."

The ideal candidate

Besides strong analytical and technical finance skills, the ideal CFO is an energetic personality with a hands-on approach and has experience in restructuring and change management. A leader that has strong communication abilities to guide staff through change and is willing to assist with operational tasks when needed. 

Furthermore you recognize yourself in the next criteria:

  • Completed a master’s degree with a focus on finance/controlling;
  • A strong track record as a finance leader, with expertise in bank relationship management;
  • Experience in businesses which invest in, produce and exploit long-term assets; 
  • Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP FI/CO, ideally Account View) and Microsoft Office;
  • Strong analytical, numerical, and communication skills, with fluency in English and knowledge of Dutch and German accounting/GAAP;
  • Skilled at translating strategies into actionable operational plans;
  • Inspires and motivates teams to achieve organizational goals, leading by example with a professional and credible leadership style. Willing to engage in operational tasks alongside the team when necessary;
  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders and commercial partners to achieve the company’s KPIs;
  • Experienced in overseeing the financial and HR impact of strategies and policies, with a broad view of issues and their long-term implications;
  • Dedicated to organizational excellence, consistently demonstrating honesty, integrity, and resilience under pressure. Upholds a positive and respectful presence that earns the respect of staff and stakeholders.

Are you interested?

If you would like to know more about the position or receive the extended job profile, please contact Katie.

Referentie: LIEI06516