Dreamworks Finance Jobs

DreamWorks Animation, a subsidiary of NBCUniversal/Comcast, offers a variety of finance roles contributing to the studio’s animated feature films, television series, and consumer products. These positions range from entry-level to executive leadership, catering to diverse skillsets and experience levels. Understanding the general types of roles and the qualifications sought can help prospective candidates navigate their career paths at DreamWorks.

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A): A significant portion of finance jobs at DreamWorks fall under FP&A. These roles are responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing the financial performance of projects and departments. Analysts might be involved in creating detailed budgets for animated films, tracking production costs against those budgets, and identifying potential cost overruns. They also prepare financial reports for senior management, highlighting key performance indicators and recommending strategies for improving profitability. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in Excel and financial modeling software, and a solid understanding of accounting principles are crucial for success in FP&A at DreamWorks.

Production Finance: This area focuses specifically on the financial management of animated productions. Production accountants and controllers work closely with production teams to track expenses, manage cash flow, and ensure compliance with financial regulations. They might be responsible for processing invoices, reconciling bank statements, and preparing cost reports. Given the complexities of animated film production, these roles require meticulous attention to detail, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure. Familiarity with production accounting software, such as Movie Magic Budgeting or EP SmartStart, is often preferred.

Corporate Finance: DreamWorks also employs corporate finance professionals who manage the overall financial health of the studio. These roles may involve activities such as capital budgeting, investment analysis, and mergers and acquisitions. Individuals in corporate finance provide strategic financial guidance to senior management and help shape the company’s long-term financial goals. A strong understanding of corporate finance principles, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to communicate effectively are essential for these positions.

Internal Audit: Internal audit roles focus on assessing and improving the effectiveness of DreamWorks’ internal controls. Internal auditors review financial records, evaluate operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with company policies and regulations. They identify potential risks and weaknesses in internal controls and recommend improvements to mitigate those risks. A background in accounting, auditing, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, is typically required for internal audit positions at DreamWorks.

Qualifications and Education: Generally, a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field is the minimum requirement for most finance roles at DreamWorks. An MBA or relevant professional certification, such as a CPA or CMA, may be preferred for more senior positions. Prior experience in the entertainment industry, particularly in film or television production, can be a significant advantage. DreamWorks also values candidates who possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, as collaboration is essential in the animation industry. The ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment is crucial for success.