Controller, Head of Finance and Accounting

The Controller role at Semafor is responsible for leading accounting and financial reporting. Reporting to the CFO, the role serves as the de facto leader of the finance and accounting organization. He/she will work closely with the CFO to assess current financial processes, controls, and reporting and develop and execute a plan to support Semafor in its next phase of growth. The role will work closely with the CFO and executive team to provide financial insights and support strategy and decision-making. This role provides incredible opportunities for career growth, including owning/growing the accounting and finance function and taking both Semafor and his / her career to the next level. The position will be based in Semafor’s New York City office.

What You’ll Do

• Responsible for managing the day-to-day accounting and finance processes for the company.
• Manage monthly/quarterly / year-end closings, accounts receivable/payable, payroll, partner commission reporting, financial statement preparation, fixed assets, revenue recognition activities, cash management, and tax compliance.
• Develop policies and procedures for the financial activities of the company, including accounting workflows & related systems, internal controls, etc. 
• Responsible for managing equity transactions, overall cap table management, and related documentation.
• Manage the annual audit process.
• Proactive review of changes in US GAAP and application to the company where applicable.  
• Ensure compliance with government and regulatory reporting requirements including the Company’s local tax returns with assistance from external advisors.
• Interface with third-party advisors (auditors, tax advisors).
• Grow finance organization to support international operations.

What You Offer

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or related field required
• 5+ years’ experience in corporate accounting / financial planning & analysis positions with a history of increasing leadership responsibility
• 4+ years’ experience at a Big Four firm
• CPA certification
• Experience managing and building teams
• Deep familiarity and expertise with financial modeling, including dynamic short-term and long-range plan models
• Experience with Sage Intacct a plus
• Prior experience with media, news, journalism, and events businesses is a strong plus
• Equity accounting (Carta experience is a plus)
• Background with fast-paced close schedules
• Demonstrated ability to self-motivate and work under pressure
• Familiarity with the requirements of working in a venture capital-backed company
• A proven ability to support growth and scale the accounting and finance function accordingly

You should be able to

• Create standardized processes and controls that are scalable and repeatable, delivering timely and quality financial reporting to the business
• Balance the execution of individually contributing, managing, and assisting in developing the strategy of the accounting and finance function
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment with minimal structure and process
• Self-starter with a strategic approach who is comfortable implementing and championing processes where required
• Analyze data, understand trends, and develop recommendations based on the analysis
• Support a culture of innovation, execution, collaboration, accountability, positivity and fun

What We Offer

• Inspiring, collaborative, supportive, high-energy growth-company culture
• Career advancement - we have a culture that prioritizes internal promotion and career growth 
• Semafor Equity Ownership - all employees have ownership in Semafor
• Flexible Paid Time Off - take off as much time as you need - we support work/life balance
• Medical, Dental & Vision insurance - Semafor pays 100% for employees in benchmark plans
• Health Savings Account (HSA)  - with monthly $$ employer contribution
• 401(k) Retirement Plan Option
• Modern and casual office environment with various amenities

Compensation: 

The base salary for this position at the time of posting will range from $200,000 - $250,000 per year. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including business needs, experience, level of responsibility, and qualifications. Work from home 1 day per week (In-house 4 days/week).