At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Be part of a multicultural team driving innovation in education technology.
- 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 skills.
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 in London employer: Preply
At Preply, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that fosters creativity and innovation in a collaborative work environment. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our supportive culture, where team members are encouraged to explore new ideas and develop their skills. Located in a vibrant city, we offer unique advantages such as flexible working arrangements and a focus on work-life balance, making it a rewarding place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in user engagement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Accounting / Controller in London
✨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 Preply. 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 of Accounting / Controller in London
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 Preply.
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 Preply'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 Preply
✨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 Preply.
✨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 Preply 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 Preply 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.
