Description: Olympia is more than an exhibition venue, conference centre and live-event space - it’s an inspiration. Against a backdrop of grand Victorian architecture, the seven connected spaces inspire engagement and enjoyment. Olympia Events is recognised in the industry for exceptional levels of customer service and support, and our numerous awards are testament to our clients' satisfaction. Beyond the walls of our venue, Olympia is on the ground, working to invest in people, strengthen our communities, and protect the environment.
Olympia is undergoing a period of change. In 2017, the venue was bought by a consortium led by Yoo Capital and Deutsche Finance international. Work is currently underway to transform the wider estate into a cultural hub of which Olympia Events will be the central part. Once complete, the estate will include a new theatre, music venue, two hotels, over 30 eateries, world-class office space and over two acres of public realm. More information can be found at
Job purpose:
The Finance Assistant supports the effective financial management of the venue by ensuring accurate processing of financial transactions, month end journals, maintaining up-to-date records, and assisting with management accounts reporting and compliance requirements. This role contributes to the smooth operation of the venue by providing timely and reliable financial support to the Finance Manager and wider team, enabling informed decision-making and strong financial control. The Finance Assistant plays a key part in safeguarding the venue’s financial integrity, supporting operational efficiency, and helping deliver exceptional experiences for clients, performers, and guests.
Key responsibilities
* Assist with daily and monthly reconciliation of event revenue streams against bank deposits and system records. Initially focussed on new F&B income streams but also supporting wider events business reporting and month end close.
* Prepare routine financial reports (event P&Ls including actuals and forecasts, F&B results, cashflow forecasting) and assist with ad-hoc reporting requests to support operational teams and management decisions.
* Maintain accurate financial records to support budgeting and forecasting processes, including tracking variances for events and operational departments.
* Ensure financial transactions follow company policies, venue regulations, and accounting standards, supporting audits and maintaining strong internal controls.
* Provide timely financial information to event managers, operations, and suppliers, assisting with queries and supporting smooth financial operations across the venue.
* Assist with VAT return preparation and year end audit and tax files
* Prepare month end journals and process in Finance System.
* Assist preparation of month end packs for management accounts.
* Assist with monthly reforecasts
* Prepare event settlements for ticketed events.
* Reconciling of MI from EPOS and other business systems accurately and on time.
* Assist with balance sheet reconciliations.
Skills and competencies required
Essential:
* Part - Qualified ACA, CIMA or ACCA, or working towards accountancy qualification.
* Experience in processing journals within finance systems.
* Ability to process financial data and transactions accurately across multiple revenue streams (ticketing, bar, catering, and venue hire).
* Comfortable working with financial information, preparing reports, and supporting ad-hoc analysis.
* Capable of managing deadlines and prioritising tasks in a fast-paced, event-driven environment.
* Clear and professional in both written and verbal communication, with the ability to explain financial information to non-finance colleagues and external suppliers.
* Confident using finance systems, Excel, and venue/ticketing/EPOS software, with a willingness to learn new tools quickly.
* Proactive in resolving discrepancies, answering queries, and improving financial processes where possible.
General information
The requirements of the business are such that a degree of flexibility is necessary, and some evening and weekend work may be required.
Sustainability Responsibilities:
* Continuously improve your knowledge of Olympia Events’ sustainability programme - the ‘Grand Plan’. Complete all training provided and promote sustainability practices to meet our Grand Plan objectives
* Follow and promote all sustainable workplace policies and procedures and seek ways to make your department more sustainable by taking an active role to initiate change
Olympia Events is fully committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all children, young people and adults at risk (vulnerable groups) that attend our premises. As a consequence, Olympia Events may require any successful applicant to complete a DBS Check prior to working in our business.
Olympia Events is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and excepts all its people to have a positive commitment to EDI by treating others fairly and not committing any form of discrimination, victimisation or harassment and to promote positive working relationships amongst employees and stakeholders.
This Job Description is not intended to be exhaustive; the duties and responsibilities may therefore vary over according to the changing needs of the business.