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- Tasks: Lead the transformation of accounting for IPO readiness and build a high-performing team.
- Company: Join Preply, a rapidly growing Ed-Tech company with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a high-ownership role with direct visibility to leadership.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in accounting with Big Four experience and proven leadership in high-growth settings.
- Other info: Be part of a multicultural team that values diverse perspectives and innovative solutions.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
We’re hiring a Director of Accounting / Controller to help lead Preply through its next phase of growth and build the accounting foundation required for IPO readiness. This is not a steady-state role. Preply has scaled rapidly - and now needs to upgrade its accounting infrastructure, processes, and team to public-company standards. You will lead that transformation.
You’ll partner closely with the VP Accounting and CFO to build a function that is:
- Fast (disciplined, compressed close)
- Clean (accurate, reliable financials)
- Audit-ready (SOX-compliant, externally trusted)
- AI-enabled (automated, insight-driven)
This is a high-ownership, high-impact role with direct visibility to leadership, auditors, and future public market stakeholders.
What you’ll be doing:
- Build and scale the accounting function
- Own and transform the monthly, quarterly, and annual close, driving significant improvements in speed, structure, and discipline
- Build a SOX 404-compliant controls environment from the ground up
- Establish public-company-grade reporting, including audit-ready financial statements
- Lead technical accounting across complex areas (revenue, SBC, consolidation, etc.)
- Drive transformation and automation
- Identify and eliminate manual processes through automation and AI-enabled workflows
- Improve data quality, systems, and reporting infrastructure (NetSuite, etc.)
- Deliver step-change efficiency gains across accounting operations
- Build and lead a high-performing team
- Assess current team capabilities and upgrade talent where needed
- Define the right structure, roles, and responsibilities for scale
- Foster a culture of accountability, ownership, and excellence
- Partner across the business
- Work closely with FP&A, Legal, Tax, and Operations to ensure alignment
- Act as a trusted advisor to Finance leadership on IPO readiness
- Partner with auditors and external advisors to ensure smooth execution
What you need to succeed:
- Big Four background (PwC, Deloitte, EY, or KPMG)
- 10+ years of experience in accounting, including leadership roles
- Proven experience building or transforming accounting functions in high-growth environments
- Hands-on experience with SOX 404 design and implementation
- Strong expertise in US GAAP and external reporting (10-K, 10-Q, S-1 exposure)
- Track record of improving close processes and operational rigor
- Strong people leadership and ability to drive change
Nice to have:
- Pre-IPO or IPO experience
- Experience in SaaS, marketplace, or global tech companies
- Exposure to automation / AI in finance
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Preply.com is committed to creating an inclusive environment where people of diverse backgrounds can thrive. We believe that the presence of different opinions and viewpoints is a key ingredient for our success as a multicultural Ed-Tech company. That means that Preply will consider all applications for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, age or veteran status.
Director of Accounting / Controller employer: Preply
Contact Detail:
Preply Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Accounting / Controller
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors that applications alone can’t.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, recent news, and challenges they face. This will help us tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company’s future.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. We want you to shine when it’s time to showcase your skills and experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you on their radar. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Accounting / Controller
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Director of Accounting role. Highlight your Big Four background and any relevant leadership roles you've held. We want to see how you can help us build a strong accounting foundation!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this high-impact role. Share specific examples of how you've transformed accounting functions in the past, and let us know how you can drive change at Preply.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since we're looking for someone with hands-on experience in SOX 404 design and implementation, make sure to highlight these skills in your application. Mention any experience with automation and AI in finance too, as it's a big plus for us!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Preply
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key financial metrics and accounting principles relevant to the role. Brush up on your knowledge of US GAAP, SOX compliance, and any recent changes in regulations that could impact the company’s IPO readiness.
✨Showcase Your Transformation Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully transformed accounting functions in previous roles. Highlight your experience with automation and AI in finance, as well as any significant improvements you've driven in close processes or reporting accuracy.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Team Building
Be ready to discuss your approach to building and leading high-performing teams. Share your strategies for assessing team capabilities, upgrading talent, and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence within the accounting function.
✨Engage with Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since this role involves partnering closely with various departments, prepare to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with FP&A, Legal, Tax, and Operations in the past. Emphasise your ability to act as a trusted advisor and ensure alignment across the business.