Mechanism Ventures Looking for Director of Finance at United States Full Time

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Remote – United States

Reporting To: Arthur Chan

Description

Company Description

Mechanism is an early-stage venture firm on a mission to build ambitious companies that make a massive impact. From tackling the $1.8T student debt problem to reducing carbon emissions, we are driven by purpose and the challenge of solving difficult problems. With a core team of 70 members spanning 13 countries, we have launched 13 companies, achieving an estimated annual revenue of $60M and growing over 100% annually. Every day at Mechanism is different and exciting as we engineer growth and success in a fast-paced environment that never has a dull moment.

Position Description

We are seeking a Director of Finance to lead our evolution in finance strategies and practices, reporting directly to the VP of Finance. This role is pivotal in managing and overseeing the financial aspects of our startup studio and its diverse portfolio of companies by blending strategic thinking and hands-on financial management. You will be a key figure in driving the development and enhancement of our Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) capabilities.

This role demands a highly organized, analytical thinker who can implement strategic visions into actionable plans and systems. You will lead and execute urgent and strategic key projects, serving as a sounding board for the VP of Finance on new ideas and initiatives. You will oversee various financial responsibilities, including forecasting, projections, day-to-day corporate operations, and cash flow management, covering a broad spectrum of our operational needs. You will be instrumental in working alongside Portfolio Company CEOs, giving them the financial acumen necessary to steer growth and achieve financial success. Your work here will cover a broad spectrum of finance-related activities requiring creativity, resourcefulness, and adaptability.

You’re a self-starter who excels at creating structure, is adept at managing complex tasks, and can lead initiatives with minimal supervision. This position is for those who thrive in fast-paced environments, can navigate the complexities of multiple projects, and have a passion for making a tangible impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Planning and Analysis
• Design and maintain comprehensive operational models that drive strategic and operational alignment with Growth.
• Lead the financial forecasting process, predicting future financial performance to support decision-making.
• Utilize financial insights and a deep understanding of business drivers to bolster decision-making, driving growth and strategic initiatives.
• Perform in-depth financial and operational data analysis, identifying critical trends, key performance metrics, and areas for optimization and improvement.
• Act as a financial advisor to CEOs and business operators, providing insightful guidance and strategic recommendations.
• Finance Operations
• Manage daily financial operations in tandem with the Controller to ensure the smooth functioning of accounting processes, financial reporting, stock administration, and corporate affairs.
• Solve operational challenges arising from our dynamic business environment common for startup companies and unique to our model.
• Ensure the finance function supports and enhances operational and strategic goals, adapting to and anticipating business needs.
• Data and Analytics
• Champion the management of financial data and analytics initiatives, working in collaboration with the Engineering team.
• Innovate and refine reporting systems, providing real-time insights to aid in agile and informed strategic planning and decision-making.

Skills, Knowledge And Expertise

• Minimum seven years of experience in financial management and analysis, preferably with a significant portion in a startup or fast-paced, high-growth business environment combined with some experience in a larger company environment.
• Experience working closely with Growth/Marketing teams to align financial models with business drivers and growth activities.
• Exposure to M&A activities, corporate finance, treasury management, and accounting principles.
• Strong understanding of unit economics, KPIs, and metrics used to operate a business.
• Ability to interpret and distill complex financial data into actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders.
• Demonstrated capability in operational finance, with a track record of improving financial processes and systems to support business growth.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills, with a proven ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience mentoring teams and collaborating with senior executives and cross-functional teams.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, capable of conveying complex financial information clearly and concisely to various audiences.
• A high degree of initiative and independence, but also a collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Logistics

Time Commitment

This role is full-time and will need to overlap with North American time zones for the majority of the workday. It is an exciting opportunity that demands dedication beyond the standard 9 to 5. We need someone willing to go above and beyond to help us achieve our ambitious goals and who’s eager to put in the effort to make a real impact.

Location

We are fully remote – you can work wherever you’re most productive. We are unable to provide Visa or work permit sponsorship at this time.

Compensation

Our compensation packages are designed to make this your dream job for the short and long term. Each compensation package is tailored to suit your priorities and can include base, equity (in all of our active portfolio companies and any launched during your tenure at Mechanism), and a performance bonus based on the success of our portfolio companies. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, and an unlimited time off policy with a two-week minimum.