Director of Financial Operations

The Director of Financial Operations at Symmetrio is responsible for a broad range of financial management tasks including overseeing end-to-end finance operations like the closing process, balance sheet reconciliation, and monthly reporting. Additionally, the role requires ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations, managing budgeting and forecasting, and leading financial planning and analysis.

Candidates for the Director of Financial Operations role at Symmetrio should possess at least 8 years of progressive experience in accounting and financial operations. It's essential to have experience in multinational environments, proficiency with IFRS, and demonstrable skills in budgeting, forecasting, and cash management.

The Director of Financial Operations position at Symmetrio is a hybrid role, allowing for a blend of remote and in-office work. The position will be based out of New York City, requiring presence in the office 2-3 days per week while also providing flexibility.

For the Director of Financial Operations position at Symmetrio, the compensation package includes a base salary in the range of $175k plus bonuses, leading to an on-target earnings (OTE) of approximately $205k. Additional benefits include comprehensive health care plans, a 401k retirement plan, and paid time off.

Essential skills for the Director of Financial Operations role at Symmetrio include strong leadership and team development capabilities, proficient communication skills to influence across departments, and the ability to engage with external auditors. An analytical mindset for financial outcomes analysis and strategic insights is also critical.

To ensure accuracy in financial reporting, I establish thorough checks and balances within the process, implement standardized reporting templates, and regularly audit financial outputs to catch any discrepancies early on. Additionally, fostering an environment of open communication allows my team to raise concerns proactively.

My experience with budgeting and forecasting involves working closely with various department heads to gather input on their financial needs and objectives. I then use historical data and market analysis to create realistic and achievable budgets that align with our company's strategic goals.

I prioritize staying updated with changes in accounting standards by attending relevant workshops and engaging with professional associations. I also ensure my team is well-trained and compliant through regular meetings focused on best practices and changes in regulations affecting our operations.

In a past role, I was tasked with improving our monthly closing process, which historically took longer than industry standards. By implementing new technology and redesigning workflows, I led my team to reduce the closing time by 30%, enhancing our efficiency while maintaining accuracy.

Financial planning and analysis serve as the foundation for data-driven decision-making in my role. I focus on analyzing trends and variances to provide strategic recommendations to the executive team, ensuring our financial health aligns with our growth objectives.

I believe in open communication and collaboration with other departments. I regularly meet with department heads to discuss their financial needs and concerns, ensuring that finance aligns closely with operational goals, thus fostering a culture of teamwork across the organization.

For effective cash management, I utilize forecasting models to predict cash flow needs accurately. I also monitor receivables and payables closely, and implement strategies to optimize working capital while ensuring enough liquidity to meet financial obligations.

I handle audits by maintaining thorough documentation and transparency throughout the year, ensuring that all financial activities are well-tracked. Building strong relationships with external auditors is important, so I regularly engage with them to address any concerns proactively and create a positive auditing experience.

My approach to developing my finance team involves mentoring and training, providing opportunities for professional development, and encouraging team members to take ownership of their projects. I create an environment where learning is emphasized, which fosters growth and enhances overall performance.

In my previous role, I noticed inefficiencies in our invoicing process. By analyzing it, I proposed an automated solution that not only accelerated our billing cycle but also improved accuracy, resulting in quicker payments and enhanced cash flow.