Production Accountant

James Steel Productions is seeking a Production Accountant & Payroll Lead to take ownership of our day-to-day financial operations across the company, its SPV production entities, and client shows under general management. This is a newly created role reflecting our continued growth and expanding production slate of theatre projects.

You’ll report directly to the Producer and work closely with our producing team to manage budgets, payrolls, TTR tracking, and reporting. We’re looking for someone with theatre-specific finance experience, confidence working across multiple budgets and entities, and the initiative to build and improve systems as we scale.

This initially is a 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential to extend or convert to a permanent role based on company growth and review. Full-time or part-time (min. 3 days/week) considered. office based but with ability to WFH; London-based preferred.

Key responsibilities:

• Oversee daily finance for JSP Ltd, SPVs, and client productions

• Track spend and maintain reconciled, audit-ready records

• Process payroll for actors, creatives, freelancers, PAYE staff, and pensions

• Prepare TTR-ready cost tracking and support first-draft submissions

• Manage FreeAgent and support VAT and year-end accounts

• Contribute to reporting for funders, investors, and partners

• Maintain and improve finance systems and internal workflows

• Ensure Equity and union compliance in coordination with the General Manager and Production Assistant.

Benefits

• Bupa healthcare cover, including digital GP and wellbeing services

• 28 days paid holiday (incl. UK bank holidays, pro-rata if part-time/fixed-term)

• One additional day of paid leave for your birthday

• Statutory workplace pension scheme

• CPD and training support

• Flexible working culture

• A values-led team committed to professional development

• Staff perks: discounts at 30,000+ UK brands, cinema savings, and cashback rewards you can share with family