Senior Director, Accounting & Controlling

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Director, Accounting & Controlling based in United Kingdom.

This role offers the opportunity to lead and transform a global Accounting function within a fast-growing, technology-driven environment. You will oversee the full accounting ecosystem, including reporting, controls, policies, and operational excellence across multiple regions. As a key member of the Finance leadership team, you will influence strategic decisions while partnering closely with business stakeholders. The position combines technical accounting expertise with a strong focus on automation, scalability, and process transformation. You will help build a modern finance organization by leveraging AI-enabled tools and innovative approaches to improve efficiency. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in complexity, embraces change, and wants to shape the future of finance operations.

Accountabilities

• Lead the global Accounting function, owning the end-to-end accounting engine, including month-end close, financial reporting, internal controls, accounting policies, and compliance.
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting under applicable accounting standards while maintaining strong audit readiness and operational discipline.
• Build and scale a global accounting operating model across people, processes, systems, and international entities, including payroll and treasury operations.
• Provide expert technical accounting guidance across complex areas such as revenue recognition, commissions, equity, payroll, intercompany transactions, foreign exchange, and policy interpretation.
• Partner with commercial and operational teams to develop practical accounting solutions that support business growth while maintaining appropriate risk management.
• Hire, mentor, and develop a high-performing distributed accounting team by creating accountability, ownership, and opportunities for professional growth.
• Drive finance transformation initiatives by identifying automation opportunities, implementing AI-enabled solutions, and improving workflows to increase efficiency and scalability.
• Strengthen the control environment with a long-term focus on SOX readiness and support strategic initiatives such as fundraising, mergers and acquisitions, and IPO preparation.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, tax advisors, payroll providers, and other strategic partners.

Requirements

• 6+ years of experience leading Accounting, Controlling, or Finance operations teams, with proven success managing complex, multi-entity, global environments.
• Strong background in technical accounting with experience in revenue transactions, commissions, equity, payroll, intercompany structures, and financial policies.
• Experience working within high-growth software, SaaS, or technology companies with recurring revenue models.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through others while remaining hands‑on enough to provide strong technical judgment and strategic guidance.
• Proven experience building and developing high-performing teams across distributed or remote-first organizations.
• Professional accounting qualification such as CPA, ACA, ACCA, or equivalent is strongly preferred.
• Experience with IFRS reporting is advantageous, along with exposure to audits, fundraising activities, M&A transactions, or IPO readiness.
• Strong understanding of global payroll, treasury operations, and multi-jurisdiction financial processes.
• A genuine interest in automation, AI, and modern finance technologies, with experience improving workflows through systems and process optimization.
• Experience with NetSuite or similar ERP platforms is preferred, combined with strong systems thinking and adaptability.
• A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with the ability to navigate ambiguity, balance risk, and act as a strategic business partner.
• Comfortable working in a globally distributed environment, with availability to start the workday around 7 AM ET and collaborate through asynchronous communication practices.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package:
  • United States annual total target cash compensation: $225,900 - $364,300, depending on location, experience, and qualifications.
  • Additional equity opportunities through a Virtual Stock Option Plan (VSOP), where applicable.
• Fully remote and flexible working environment with the ability to work from anywhere.
• Home office budget, co‑working support, and flexible time off policies.
• Opportunities to connect with colleagues through global events, team gatherings, offsites, and community-building initiatives.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing support, including locally tailored healthcare options, mental wellbeing resources, and flexible lifestyle benefits.
• Retirement and pension plans, including company contributions where applicable, plus life and disability insurance coverage.
• Professional development support with an annual budget for courses, certifications, books, and learning opportunities.
• Inclusive and diverse workplace culture focused on empowering employees and supporting long-term growth.