Chief Financial Officer, Media & Communications Firm
Location: New York City (Hybrid)
About the Opportunity
A top-tier, independently owned Media and Communications firm is seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer to lead all aspects of the Finance & Accounting function. Reporting directly to the CEO and working alongside the executive leadership team, the CFO will own all fiscal and regulatory matters for the company.
This is not a role for someone who wants to manage from a distance. As an independently owned business, we need a CFO with an entrepreneurial mindset, someone who has worked directly with founders, understands the realities of a founder-led company, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. You'll oversee a small, capable finance team, which means rolling up your sleeves and getting into the details is part of the job, not an exception to it.
The right candidate leads by example, inspiring the team through mentorship, enthusiasm, and genuine passion for the business.
Responsibilities
- Shape and execute the company's financial strategy as a critical member of the leadership team
- Own the P&L across all channels, developing metrics that improve customer lifetime value, sharpen budgeting and forecasting, and drive cost efficiency
- Ensure the integrity of the company's financial statements and business practices
- Partner with business development to negotiate contracts that protect company interests and help close deals
- Support growth initiatives, including evaluating and integrating potential acquisitions
- Lead, direct, and manage the finance and accounting team, staying hands-on with day-to-day work as needed
- Oversee all financial operations, including the monthly close, billing, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, and financial systems and processes
- Provide strategic recommendations to the CEO and executive team
- Own financial planning, analysis, and forecasting
- Manage treasury and cash flow with relentless discipline, ensuring liquidity is appropriate and sustainable
- Plan and execute risk management across the organization
- Analyze and manage the company's liabilities and investments, including planning and implementing investment strategies
- Build and maintain strong relationships with senior management, external partners, and stakeholders
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience as a CFO or in an equivalent senior finance role, preferably in a creative, media, PR, or advertising environment
- Direct experience working alongside a founder or entrepreneur, with a strong grasp of the mindset and pace of a founder-led, independently owned business
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment and willing to be hands-on with a small team
- Track record of driving profitability and growth, ideally including experience with acquisitions or navigating challenging market conditions
- Master's degree in Finance or equivalent; CPA and/or MBA a plus
- Strong GAAP and financial reporting technical skills
- Hands-on experience with financial management software
- Deep understanding of P&L, balance sheet, and cash flow management, budgeting, and general corporate finance
- Experience with corporate governance, budget management, and public accounting
- Quick to grasp new issues and make informed decisions
- Able to inspire confidence, build trust, work well under pressure, and delegate effectively
Benefits
- Competitive salary and attractive benefits package
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Generous paid parental leave
- Short- and long-term disability
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Flexible time off
