At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead AI transformation in global accounting, enhancing efficiency and controls.
- Company: Join a billion-dollar tech company committed to innovation and diversity.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, inclusive culture, and opportunities for impactful change.
- Other info: Collaborative environment focused on community and meaningful relationships.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of AI-driven solutions that transform accounting processes.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with experience in global finance and AI technologies.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
Company Description
IFS is a billion-dollar revenue company with 7000+ employees on all continents.
Our leading AI technology is the backbone of our award-winning enterprise software solutions, enabling our customers to be their best when it really matters–at the Moment of Service™.
Our commitment to internal AI adoption has allowed us to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring our colleagues can unlock their creativity and productivity, and our solutions are always cutting-edge.
At IFS, we’re flexible, we’re innovative, and we’re focused not only on how we can engage with our customers but on how we can make a real change and have a worldwide impact.
We help solve some of society’s greatest challenges, fostering a better future through our agility, collaboration, and trust.
We celebrate diversity and understand our responsibility to reflect the diverse world we work in.
We are committed to promoting an inclusive workforce that fully represents the many different cultures, backgrounds, and viewpoints of our customers, our partners, and our communities.
As a truly international company serving people from around the globe, we realize that our success is tantamount to the respect we have for those different points of view.
By joining our team, you will have the opportunity to be part of a global, diverse environment; you will be joining a winning team with a commitment to sustainability; and a company where we get things done so that you can make a positive impact on the world.
We’re looking for innovative and original thinkers to work in an environment where you can
#Make Your Moment so that we can help others make theirs. With the power of our AI-driven solutions, we empower our team to change the status quo and make a real difference.
If you want to change the status quo, we’ll help you make your moment. Join Team Purple. Join IFS.
Job Description
As Director, Global Accounting AI Transformation, you will lead the end-to-end design and delivery of AI-enabled transformation across the Global Accounting function, spanning:
- Group Accounting (Consolidation & Statutory Reporting)
- Record-to-Report (R2R) across all entities
- Group Tax (including global compliance and filings)
- Revenue Recognition (including deal support and review processes)
This role will drive the shift from manual, process-heavy accounting operations to scalable, AI-enabled workflows.
You will partner closely with Global Accounting leadership, IT, and the AI Business Unit to embed AI into core accounting processes, ensuring improved efficiency and stronger controls.
Key Responsibilities
- Accounting AI Transformation
- Define and own the AI transformation roadmap across R2R, consolidation, tax, and revenue recognition
- Lead redesign of core Accounting processes to become
- AI-first (e. g. close, reconciliations, tax filings, rev rec reviews)
- Move beyond incremental automation to end-to-end workflow transformation
• Embed AI agents and automation into
- Close & consolidation processes
- Reconciliation and control frameworks
- Tax compliance and reporting
- Revenue recognition and deal validation
- Own end-to-end delivery of AI initiatives: from idea → design → deployment → adoption
- Ensure all AI solutions align with Accounting control frameworks, audit requirements, and compliance standards
• Strengthen controls through
- Automated validation and exception handling
- Improved audit trails and transparency
- Risk detection and monitoring
- Build capability within teams to design, use, and scale AI workflows
• Drive adoption through
- Training and AI fluency programmes
- Workflow standardisation
- Clear ownership and accountability
- Align with broader Finance transformation programmes and operating model changes
Qualifications
- Ideal Experience
- Qualified Accountant (ACA, ACCA, CPA or equivalent) preferred
- Experience leading Global Accounting, Controllership or Shared Services functions
- Experience operating within a publicly listed, multi-entity international organisation
• Deep knowledge of
- IFRS and US GAAP
- SOX / Internal Controls
- External Audit requirements
- Global tax and transfer pricing environments
- Experience managing complex month-end and quarter-end close processes across multiple jurisdictions
- AI & Technology Experience
- Experience deploying AI, Generative AI, Agentic AI or Intelligent Automation solutions within Finance functions
- Experience leveraging Copilot, LLMs, AI agents, RPA, workflow orchestration and automation platforms
- Understanding of AI governance, model risk management and Responsible AI principles
- Experience building business cases and value realisation frameworks for AI investments
- Strong understanding of Finance data architecture and master data management
- Additional Leadership Requirements
- Proven experience leading enterprise-wide Finance transformation programmes exceeding multiple regions or business units
- Experience designing and implementing Finance Target Operating Models
- Track record of driving adoption and behavioural change in complex organisations
• Ability to influence executive stakeholders including
- CFO
- CAO
- Group Controller
- CIO etc
- Additional Information
We embrace flexibility and hybrid work opportunities to support diverse needs and lifestyles, while also valuing inclusive workplace experiences.
By fostering a sense of community, we drive innovation, strengthen connections, and nurture belonging.
Our commitment ensures you can work in a way that suits you best, while also engaging with colleagues to share ideas and build meaningful relationships.
Director, Global Accounting AI Transformation employer: IFS
IFS is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where innovation thrives. With a focus on employee growth, we offer extensive opportunities for professional development and a competitive salary package, including flexible paid time off and comprehensive health insurance. Join us in a collaborative environment where your contributions directly impact enterprise customers and the future of AI solutions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Global Accounting AI Transformation
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like IFS. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Global Accounting AI Transformation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to IFS.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on IFS's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at IFS
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with IFS.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at IFS will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former IFS employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
