Burson, part of WPP, is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.
WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP) is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com
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More about the role:
At Burson, we're redefining reputation for the modern world. As part of WPP, the world's largest marketing and communications services group, we combine deep expertise, creativity and technology to help clients build, protect and enhance their reputations.
We are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Finance Director to join our Australia business on a 7-month fixed-term contract to cover a period of parental leave, commencing October 2026.
Reporting to the APAC CFO and partnering closely with the Australia CEO and leadership team, this is a highly visible leadership role that plays a critical part in shaping business performance, supporting growth and ensuring strong financial stewardship across the organisation.
This opportunity is ideal for a finance leader who enjoys operating as a strategic business partner while remaining closely connected to the day-to-day commercial realities of a dynamic professional services business.
What You'll Be Doing
As Finance Director, you will:
- Partner with senior business leaders to drive commercial performance and support strategic decision-making.
- Lead the budgeting, forecasting and financial planning processes across the Australia business.
- Provide commercial guidance on client profitability, pricing, contract negotiations and business growth opportunities.
- Support workforce planning and broader business management discussions with the leadership team.
- Lead and develop the local finance team, ensuring the delivery of high-quality financial operations and commercial support.
- Oversee financial governance, risk management, compliance, tax, treasury and statutory obligations.
- Ensure adherence to WPP policies, controls and Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) requirements.
- Partner with regional and global stakeholders on key initiatives, including systems, procurement, treasury and operational improvement projects.
- Act as a trusted advisor to the APAC CFO, Australia CEO and wider leadership team.
What We're Looking For
We're looking for a commercially focused finance leader who brings:
- Significant senior finance leadership experience within a professional services, agency, consulting or similar environment.
- Strong commercial acumen and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
- Experience leading budgeting, forecasting and business planning processes.
- Demonstrated success partnering with leaders to drive business performance and profitability.
- Sound knowledge of financial controls, compliance, tax and regulatory requirements.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills.
- A collaborative, hands-on approach and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Why Burson?
At Burson, you'll have the opportunity to work with talented colleagues across Australia and the broader WPP network, supporting some of the world's most recognised brands and organisations.
We are committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative and high-performing culture where our people can do their best work and continue to grow their careers.
If you're a strategic finance leader who enjoys influencing business outcomes and partnering with senior stakeholders, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply now to join Burson Australia.
Our vision is for Burson to be the leading ‘academy company’ for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues come to elevate their skills, expand their networks, and ultimately, produce the best solutions for today’s leading brands. Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our robust benefits and people programs, which include professional development opportunities, mentorship programs with industry leaders, a vibrant and inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation and packages designed to reward and retain top talent. We invest in our people because we believe their success is our success.
At Burson, we’re an agency of learn-it-alls. We recognize that the things we do best, creativity and communications, require a level of nuanced understanding. That’s why it’s imperative for us to hire extraordinarily talented people of all backgrounds and identities. Without that we can’t do the essential work of inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue, cultivating meaningful experiences, and driving innovation and creativity for our partners. Your unique point of view—your talent—is what makes you a #BursonPerson, and it’s how we deliver exceptional results for our clients, together.
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
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