We're not here to add to the noise.
If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information.
We're here to cut through it- with AI that actually works for marketers.From AI-powered content creation to world-class CMS and the industry's most trusted experimentation platform, Optimizely is the tool modern marketers actually want to use.
AI-Ready.
Set.
Go.10,000+ brands including H&M, PayPal, and Zoom already get it.
So do Gartner, Forrester, and IDC, who consistently recognize us as leaders in MarTech.But here's the thing about building great products: it takes great people.
Our 1,600+ Optimizers across 12 global offices are curious, collaborative, and refreshingly human.
We don't do corporate speak.
We do real conversations, big ideas, and genuinely care for the work we make together.If you want to be part of a team that's shaping the future of marketing technology — and actually enjoys doing it — you're in the right place.Find us on Instagram: @optimizelyIntroduction The Group Financial Controller is a critical leadership role at the heart of Optimizely's Finance function.
This is not a conventional controllership role.
Yes, you'll own the technical accounting, the close, the audit, and the statutory and regulatory compliance across our global entity structure — but we're looking for someone who sees those as the floor, not the ceiling. You'll lead an international team spanning group accounting and regional controllers across EMEA, North America, and APAC — bringing together the discipline of a rigorous control environment with the ambition to automate, modernise, and genuinely transform how close and reporting works at Optimizely. You'll be a key partner to the Senior Director, Accounting and FP&A leadership, and a visible champion of AI-enabled finance across the business.
If you're energised by the idea of building a best-in-class controllership function for a PE-backed SaaS business preparing for its next chapter as the AI platform for marketing — this is the role for you. Job Responsibilities Close Management & Financial Reporting Own the global month-, quarter-, and year-end close process across all entities, driving a well-sequenced calendar.
Oversee monthly regional and consolidated flux analysis; present key fluctuations, risks, and run-rate changes to finance leadership.
Deliver accurate, audit-ready consolidated management accounts on time, partnering with FP&A for a coherent narrative.
Oversee group statutory financial statements under IFRS.
Continuously improve close timelines via automation while maintaining control.Technical Accounting & IFRS Compliance Serve as in-house technical accounting authority on IFRS (IFRS 15, 16, 2, 3, IAS 36, etc.).
Lead the transition to IFRS 18 (early adoption where possible), ensuring Chart of Accounts readiness.
Prepare and review position papers on complex or judgmental accounting matters.
Monitor and adopt new accounting standards, communicating impacts across finance.Global Audit & Statutory Compliance Lead annual external audits end-to-end for the group and subsidiaries.
Manage statutory filings across all jurisdictions, including UK, US, Sweden, UAE, Singapore, and Bangladesh.
Ensure global regulatory and statutory compliance, proactively resolving risks.
Maintain year-round audit readiness.Regional Accounting Leadership Lead regional controllers across EMEA, North America, and APAC, driving accuracy and ownership.
Provide technical guidance, coaching, and IFRS capability development.
Ensure consistency in accounting policies, Chart of Accounts, and intercompany processes.
Partner with revenue and shared services to ensure transactional accuracy.AI Transformation & Process Automation Lead adoption of AI and automation tools (close automation, reconciliations, flux analysis, journal reviews).
Evaluate, pilot, and scale finance tech solutions to reduce manual effort and accelerate insights.
Partner with Head of Finance AI Transformation to embed tooling while maintaining strong controls.
Cultivate a tech-curious team culture that challenges traditional close processes.Control Environment & Financial Governance Support design and operating effectiveness of the global accounting controls framework.
Drive prompt remediation of audit deficiencies and identify emerging risks.
Maintain robust intercompany processes, clean eliminations, and
Director, Group Financial Controller in Kennington employer: Optimizely
At Optimizely, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture where innovation thrives. As a Director of Security Engineering, you'll be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration and real conversations, empowering you to drive meaningful change in the marketing technology landscape. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge AI technologies, you'll find a rewarding environment that not only challenges you but also supports your career aspirations.
