Direct the operations of the North America Shared Services Center (SSC), providing multiple business units exceptional service and support. Drive significant improvements by leveraging the combined power of people, process, and systems alternatives within a multi-year enterprise-level transformation initiative to modernize the function. While operating in various accounting systems/platforms, ensure consistency of processing transactions in a timely, accurate, and controlled manner. Develop and harmonize policies and procedures in alignment with US GAAP. Identify and oversee projects to automate and streamline functions, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency and productivity. Manage relationships with third party service providers and business partners. Direct, review, and appraise activities and performance of SSC staff and provide the necessary coaching, tools and training to ensure success.

• Expand and evolve shared services to support broader business needs beyond transactional activities.
• Drive consistent, scalable processes and promote standardization across the organization.
• Deliver exceptional internal and external customer service and enhance the customer experience.
• Lead integration of activities from business acquisitions into shared services operations.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure efficient and effective end-to-end processes.
• Support the monthly financial close process and ensure compliance with SOX requirements.
• Partner with IT to prioritize and implement automation initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional working capital initiatives and process improvement projects.
• Manage and lead large-scale projects, ensuring timely delivery with a focus on accuracy and efficiency.
• Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure operational performance.
• Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and trends in shared services and business operations.

Qualifications:

• 15+ years of experience, including 10+ years in a leadership role within a shared services organization.
• Strong knowledge of COSO, SOX controls, and US GAAP.
• Experience in portfolio private equity or venture-backed companies is a plus.
• Hands-on, strategic thinker with a “roll-up-your-sleeves” approach.
• Proven experience with system implementations, upgrades, and process automation.
• Expertise in building and expanding shared services beyond transactional functions into broader end-to-end business services.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with attention to detail.
• Deep knowledge of end-to-end transaction lifecycle processes and net working capital management.
• Experience with outsourcing, including offshoring shared service functions.
• Effective relationship builder, skilled in collaborating cross-functionally and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong leadership experience managing large, distributed teams.
• Thrives in fast-paced environments, able to manage competing deadlines with agility.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Creative problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset.

Education and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA certification required; MBA preferred.