Senior Financial Director

Burson•New York, NY

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation. Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. For more information visit bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram. More about the role: Burson Global is seeking to hire a Senior Finance Director to be based ideally in our New York office (other locations could be Chicago or Washington DC). The Senior Finance Director will work alongside the North American CFO across all layers of Burson US. The ideal candidate will oversee revenue recognition, manage large client accounts with multiple fee structures, and counsel Regional Market and Practice Finance Directors and Auditors. This is an opportunity to work in a dynamic environment across our North American Finance Team in a highly visible capacity.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent career experience). CPA certification or actively pursuing is a plus.
5+ years of progressive experience in client finance, with a strong focus on revenue recognition.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, complex formulas, data manipulation).
In-depth knowledge and practical application of revenue recognition standards.
Proven experience in managing client financial relationships, preferably in a professional services environment.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Direct experience working within a Public Relations Agency or similar professional services firm (e.g., advertising, marketing, consulting) is highly desirable, with an understanding of agency-specific billing models and client contracts.
Experience with major ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, Workday Financials) is a significant advantage

Responsibilities

Revenue Recognition & Reporting:
Apply IFRS revenue recognition principles to complex client contracts, ensuring compliance with GAAP.
Prepare and maintain detailed revenue schedules, percentage of completion trackers, and contract grids.
Collaborate with account teams and client finance to understand contract terms, deliverables, and performance obligations.
Assist in the preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual revenue reports for management.
Support the annual audit process by providing documentation and explanations for revenue-related accounts.
Serve as a key advisor on revenue recognition questions.
Process Improvement & Compliance:
Identify opportunities to streamline revenue processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
Ensure adherence to internal controls, company policies, and accounting standards.
Assist in the development and implementation of new accounting policies and procedures as needed.
Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Act as a key liaison between the finance department, account teams, client finance, and other operational departments.
Provide financial guidance and support to senior finance personnel regarding revenue recognition and billing practices.