Director, Assistant Controller

We are looking for a Director, Assistant Controller to join a high-growth, pre-IPO SaaS company at a pivotal stage. This role is the operational backbone of the accounting function, owning the month-end close, leading the external audit, and developing a high-performing team. The ideal candidate is a strong operational accountant who has built and run accounting functions in a SaaS environment. This is an execution-focused role for someone who takes pride in running a clean, efficient accounting function while bringing enough technical breadth to be a thought partner on complex accounting matters. The role has a meaningful runway to grow into broader scope as the company grows.

Responsibilities

Lead the accounting function and define and implement an effective controllership framework that scales with the business; Own the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes; Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing accounting team; Lead the year-end audit and serve as primary point of contact for the external audit team, coordinating PBC requests, substantive testing, and audit committee deliverables; Strengthen accounting policies, procedures, internal controls, and governance structures; Partner with Controller on technical accounting matters including revenue recognition (ASC 606), internally developed capitalized software (ASC 350-40), and stock-based compensation (ASC 718); Drive process improvement initiatives, including AI tooling adoption; Keep the Controller and CFO informed of key financial reporting activities, close status, and financial risks; Contribute to financial strategy and operational initiatives that support growth objectives; Report to the Controller and lead the core Accounting GL team

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA designation required; 8–10 years of progressive accounting experience; SaaS industry experience strongly preferred; Demonstrated experience owning the month-end close and managing the external audit end-to-end; Hands-on team management experience (hired, developed, and held people accountable); Working knowledge of SaaS revenue recognition (ASC 606) sufficient to review complex arrangements and identify issues requiring escalation; Startup mindset, comfortable operating in a fast-paced, high-growth environment with ambiguity and shifting priorities, and able to roll up sleeves as a preparer when needed; Comfortable in a systems-intensive environment; Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong problem-solving skills; Demonstrated ability to identify, implement, and improve financial systems, automation, and AI tooling; Proven track record of effective communication at all levels, including presenting to senior leadership; High degree of self-awareness, humility, and collaborative instincts; Candidates located in the Bay Area are strongly preferred

Nice to have

Familiarity with capitalized software (ASC 350-40) and equity accounting (ASC 718) is a meaningful differentiator; Experience with NetSuite, Zip, Stripe, or comparable platforms

Benefits

Equity; Company bonus or sales commissions/bonuses; 401(k) plan; At least 10 paid holidays per year, flex PTO, and parental leave; Employee assistance program and wellbeing benefits; Global travel coverage; Life/AD&D/STD/LTD insurance; FSA/HSA and medical, dental, and vision benefits