Deputy Finance Controller - AI Startup

A well backed global AI startup is looking for a seasoned Deputy Finance Controller to play a critical role in leading the global audit, compliance, and financial control charter.

Key Responsibilities

- Audit & Compliance Leadership

- Lead global statutory audits, group audits, and limited reviews across entities (India, UK, US, UAE, etc.).

- Manage coordination between internal teams and Big 4 audit partners to ensure timely closure of audits with zero critical observations.

- Ensure full compliance with IFRS, local GAAPs, Companies Act, and other regulatory requirements.

- Oversee implementation and monitoring of internal controls, accounting policies, and audit recommendations.

- Financial Reporting & Control

- Supervise month-end and year-end close processes in alignment with corporate timelines.

- Drive timely consolidation and preparation of financial statements (as per IFRS).

- Maintain chart of accounts integrity and accurate mapping across systems (e.g., NetSuite).

- Monitor accounting hygiene across ledgers, reconciliations, accruals, and provisioning.

- Governance & Risk Management

- Strengthen SOX-like internal control framework in preparation for IPO-readiness.

- Lead risk assessments for finance processes and recommend mitigation plans.

- Own documentation of financial controls, process notes, and risk matrices.

- Stakeholder & Team Management

- Act as the point of contact for external auditors, tax consultants, and legal advisors.

- Collaborate with Tax, FP&A, Legal, and Operations teams to ensure compliance, reporting accuracy, and alignment.

- Mentor and lead a small but high-performing team of accountants and analysts.

Qualifications & Experience

- Chartered Accountant (CA) ( Ranker / First attempt) is a must; CPA or ACCA is a plus.

- 10+ years of experience in audit, financial reporting, or controllership roles.

- Strong experience working with or in Big 4 audit firms and exposure to group audits.

- In-depth understanding of IFRS, IND-AS, Indian Companies Act, and global audit practices.

- Exposure to multi-entity, global setups + startuos is preferred.

- Experience with financial systems like NetSuite, Workiva, or Blackline is a plus.