Finance Controller

Defined.ai is a leading provider of high-quality, ethically sourced data for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) model training. We host the world’s largest AI marketplace and offer end-to-end services to help companies accelerate their AI solutions. Backed by significant funding and recognized globally for our commitment to ethical AI, we operate in a fast‑paced, innovative environment with offices in Seattle and Lisbon.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Financial Controller to join our Finance team. Reporting directly to the VP of Finance, the Financial Controller will be the lead accountant for the company, taking ownership of financial reporting, internal controls, accounts receivable, project accounting and overall accounting operations. This role is critical in providing accurate, timely, and insightful financial data to support strategic decision‑making and fuel our continued global expansion in the dynamic AI industry.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting and Financial Reporting

- Oversee all day‑to‑day accounting operations including Billing, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable, General Ledger, Cost Accounting, and Revenue Recognition for a global operation.

- Own Company’s Revenue and Cost of revenue transaction cycle including customer invoicing, project budgeting, tracking and categorizing contract costs, ensuring accurate cutoff of transactions at month end.

- Manage the month‑end and year‑end close processes to ensure timely and accurate closure of books.

- Prepare and publish timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with applicable accounting standards (e.g., GAAP/IFRS).

- Coordinate the preparation of regulatory reporting and research complex, technical accounting issues for compliance, especially as related to international operations.

- Manage and comply with local, state, and federal government reporting requirements and tax filings across multiple jurisdictions.

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

- Coordinate and direct the preparation of the annual budget and financial forecasts.

- Conduct variance analysis (budget vs. actual) and provide detailed, insightful reports to management on performance, trends, and forecasts.

- Manage cash flow and provide accurate cash flow projections, working closely with the VP of Finance on treasury‑related activities and banking relationships.

- Identify and implement cost‑control strategies and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and profitability.

Internal Controls and Compliance

- Develop, document, and enforce business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls, safeguarding company assets.

- Act as the primary liaison for external auditors during annual financial audits, tax audits, and compliance reviews.

- Ensure rigorous quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting systems.

- Maintain comprehensive documentation of all financial procedures and accounting policies.

Strategic and Leadership Contribution

- Serve as a key strategic partner to the VP of Finance and the executive leadership team, providing data‑driven financial insights to support commercial negotiations, investment decisions, and long‑term strategic planning, and escalating risks and issues as necessary to leadership.

- Oversee and lead the accounting and finance team (including mentoring, coaching, and performance management).

- Drive continuous improvement in finance operations by identifying and implementing new financial systems and technologies to automate processes and enhance reporting capabilities.

- Develop and monitor Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the company’s financial efficiency and strategic performance against company goals.

Required Skills & Experience

- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

- Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience in accounting and finance roles, with at least 2 years in a Financial Controller or senior finance management position.

- Proven experience overseeing the financial operations of a high‑growth, technology, or international company is a significant advantage.

- Thorough knowledge of US GAAP or IFRS principles and procedures.

- Demonstrated experience with ERP/Accounting software systems implementation and administration (Netsuite is a plus).

- Exceptional analytical and problem‑solving skills with a keen attention to detail.

- Strong leadership and management abilities to mentor and develop the finance team.

- Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with cross‑functional teams and external stakeholders (auditors, banks).

- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling.

- Fluency in English.

Benefits

- Flexible working schedule and hybrid model. We know comfort can boost creativity and performance, so you can manage your schedule and work both from one of our modern office spaces or home.

- Excellent career development opportunities in a high growth company. With us, you can accomplish your career goals and follow a well‑described career path with the support of your supervisor.

- Culture of feedback and continuous improvement. AI is a fast‑paced area, so we keep track of tech trends, and we always ask for feedback.

- An international and diverse team. We have more than 30 nationalities at our 3 locations, and we provide language classes.

- Continuous training opportunities. You can choose from many options: leveraging hands‑on workshops, unlimited access to Coursera and formal development opportunities.

- We love to have fun together. We joke a lot, and we can’t imagine work without fun activities – we already surfed, raced carts and played soccer together.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Accounting/Auditing and Finance

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