Controller

We're looking for a highly motivated, operationally-minded Controller to lead and shape our accounting and finance operations. You’ll be a key player in our Finance team and a close partner to the VP of Finance & Ops, combining a strong accounting background with operational finance to help us scale systems, support decision-making, and drive strategic planning. You’ll own the day-to-day accounting function while stepping into broader operational projects.

You’re hands-on and collaborative — you've led audits, closed books, managed equity, and handled tax compliance — but you also have a keen interest in working cross-functionally, shaping budgets and forecasts, and supporting the company’s growth.

What You’ll Do:

• Oversee and manage all aspects of financial reporting, including monthly, quarterly, and annual closes, and preparation of consolidated financial statements.
• Manage and maintain NetSuite, ensuring accurate and timely financial data, integrations, and reporting workflows.
• Lead revenue recognition processes, accounts payable/receivable, billing operations, and respond to external diligence requests.
• Lead payroll and oversee payroll compliance, collaborating closely with People Ops on compensation strategies and execution.
• Manage spend and procurement processes across the organization, ensuring efficient use of resources, compliance, and cost control.
• Own and manage equity administration, including reporting, budgeting, and compliance.
• Oversee compliance and filings related to federal, state, and local income taxes, as well as sales tax.
• Drive improvements in internal controls, accounting procedures, and financial systems, automating processes to enhance accuracy and efficiency.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Finance, People Ops, Legal, and other teams to support business decisions, provide financial insights, support Forecasting, participate in contract negotiations and legal reviews.
• Manage key relationships with external providers, including accountants, auditors, bankers, insurance carriers, and tax advisors.
• Oversee billing operations and the full quote-to-cash process, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and a smooth customer experience across systems and teams.
• Assist with special projects and initiatives that support Descript's growth and operational needs.

What You Bring:

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, ideally with a mix of Big 4 and operational roles in high-growth SaaS environments
• Extensive knowledge of US GAAP, especially ASC 606 Revenue Recognition.
• Strong experience with ERP systems, particularly NetSuite.
• Proven experience managing payroll, compensation, and equity administration in a growing company.
• Familiarity with procurement processes, cost management, and budgeting.
• Hands-on experience managing close processes, audits, AP, AR, and compliance.
• Operational mindset with the ability to dive deep into data, improve processes, and provide actionable insights.
• Comfortable reviewing and assisting with contract negotiations and legal documentation.
• Demonstrated ability to build systems and procedures from scratch, bringing structure and clarity to complex and evolving environments.
• You're ideal for this role if you're strategic yet hands-on, excel at problem-solving, and thrive in fast-paced, dynamic organizations.

The base salary range for this role is $205,000 - $240,000/year. Final offer amounts will carefully consider multiple factors, including prior experience, expertise, location, and may vary from the amount above.