Assistant Controller

PlaidPlaid·Remote(San Francisco HQ)
Finance
Excel

WFA Digital Insight

With the fintech industry experiencing rapid growth, the demand for skilled accounting professionals has never been higher. In fact, the US fintech market is projected to reach $31.5 billion by 2026. As companies like Plaid continue to scale, the need for talented Assistant Controllers who can drive operational excellence and lead global accounting operations is becoming increasingly important. With a strong foundation in accounting principles and experience in leadership roles, candidates can position themselves for success in this exciting space. Before applying, it's essential to understand the complexities of global accounting operations and the importance of strategic decision-making in a rapidly growing tech business.

Job Description

About the Role

The Assistant Controller at Plaid will play a critical role in leading the company's global accounting operations, driving operational excellence, and scaling processes to support the rapidly growing tech business. As a key member of the accounting team, this individual will oversee core accounting functions, maintain strong internal controls, and partner cross-functionally to enable strategic decision-making. With a focus on public-company readiness, the Assistant Controller will be responsible for ensuring compliance with GAAP and streamlining accounting processes.

The accounting team at Plaid is dedicated to empowering the company's mission to transform the way people interact with their finances. As a leader in the team, the Assistant Controller will have the opportunity to develop and mentor a high-performing accounting team, fostering a culture of collaboration, ownership, and accountability.

Plaid's headquarters in San Francisco offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant and dynamic environment, with a team of talented professionals who are passionate about transforming the financial services industry.

What You Will Do

  • Lead and develop teams of 10+ across GL accounting, AP & T&E, international accounting, treasury, and finance systems
  • Oversee a timely, accurate, and efficient month-end close process
  • Maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies
  • Streamline accounting processes to ensure compliance with GAAP, including complex areas such as accruals, leases, and investments
  • Mentor, coach, and grow a high-performing accounting team, fostering a culture of collaboration, ownership, and accountability
  • Recruit, onboard, and develop talent to meet evolving business needs
  • Own the finance systems roadmap, evaluating, implementing, and optimizing systems to drive automation and efficiency
  • Partner closely with Corporate Finance, Strategic Finance, Legal, Engineering, and other teams to support strategic initiatives, operational scaling, and high-quality financial insights
  • Provide accounting guidance to business partners to inform decision-making

What We Are Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
  • CPA required
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in accounting/finance, including 5+ years in leadership roles at a publicly traded tech company
  • Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, including consolidations, leases (ASC 842), fair value investments, accruals, and foreign currency accounting
  • Proficiency in ERP systems (NetSuite preferred), plus experience with complementary finance tools such as Numeric, Zip, treasury platforms, and AI-driven process tools
  • Hands-on, roll-up-your-sleeves approach with the ability to dive into details, operate with an IC mindset when needed, and maintain a strong can-do attitude
  • Proven track record of driving change, improving processes, implementing systems, and scaling operations
  • Comfortable operating in fast-paced, ambiguous environments with a growth mindset
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, able to collaborate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders

Nice to Have

  • Experience with Excel and other Microsoft Office tools
  • Familiarity with financial planning and analysis tools
  • Knowledge of international accounting standards and regulations

Benefits and Perks

  • Competitive salary and equity package
  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) matching program
  • Flexible PTO policy and remote work options
  • Access to professional development and training programs
  • Opportunity to work with a talented and passionate team in a dynamic and growing industry

How to Stand Out

  • Develop a strong understanding of U.S. GAAP and financial regulations to stand out in the application process
  • Showcase your experience with ERP systems and complementary finance tools to demonstrate your technical skills
  • Highlight your leadership and management experience, including examples of teams you've led and processes you've improved
  • Be prepared to discuss your approach to streamlining accounting processes and implementing systems to drive automation and efficiency
  • Research Plaid's company culture and values to understand the team's dynamics and expectations
  • Prepare examples of your experience with financial planning and analysis tools to demonstrate your analytical skills

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