EMPOWER OVERVIEW

Empower is a financial technology company on a mission to expand access to fair credit and give anyone in the world the opportunity to improve their financial security and mobility. Our vision is to underwrite the next billion people in the world using alternative data and machine learning to assess financial responsibility more thoughtfully and equitably. Through innovative credit products, offered in a user-friendly mobile experience, we’re making credit more accessible and inclusive and providing more people the chance they deserve to participate in our financial system.

Empower is backed by Sequoia Capital, Blisce, and Icon Ventures. Are we the next great place to grow your impact and accelerate your career? We think so:

Inc. ranked Empower #56 in the 2023 Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the US (#55 in 2022). Forbes put Empower on its 2023 list of America's Best Startup Employers. Fast Company recognized the new Empower Thrive line of credit in their 2022 list of the Next Big Things in Tech.

THE EMPOWER WAY

Great Expectations: We come up with bold, audacious goals for ourselves and go all out for impact

Owner Mindset: We give every employee latitude to act independently, make smart choices, and move the business forward

Spirited Debate: We love skeptics and seek counter opinions to challenge our personal assumptions and expand our view

Customer Obsession: We listen to understand, empathize, and create a memorable, rewarding experience for our community

Inclusive Collaboration: We believe diverse teams make the best decisions, and we strive to give diverse voices a seat at the table

No Jerks Allowed: We value our relationships and take the time to build trust and connection and communicate respectfully

WHAT EMPOWER OFFERS

Competitive salary

Generous equity package

Full healthcare and dental benefits

Technology expense reimbursement

Work from anywhere

JOB DESCRIPTION

As Controller, you will report to the CFO and be responsible for ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and transparency of our financial reporting. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of leadership in financial control within the FinTech or related industries, with experience guiding companies through significant growth phases and public offerings.

Travel for company offsites is expected at a minimum 2 times a year.

Key Responsibilities

• Financial Leadership: Lead the accounting function, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting in accordance with GAAP, as well as compliance with SEC regulations and other applicable laws.
• Strategic Planning: Work closely with the CFO and FP&A team to develop financial strategies that support the company’s growth objectives.
• Internal Controls and Compliance: Design, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the accuracy of financial statements.
• Team Management and Development: Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing accounting team capable of supporting the company’s growth and adaptability through its scaling and IPO journey.
• Stakeholder Communication: Act as a key liaison with external auditors, regulatory bodies, and investors, ensuring clear and transparent communication of the company’s financial status and outlook.
• Process Improvement: Continuously assess and improve financial and accounting processes and systems to increase efficiency, reduce risk, and support scaling operations.

Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. CPA or equivalent certification is required.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in accounting and finance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within a FinTech or fast-growing tech company.
• Demonstrated experience leading a company through significant growth phases.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, SEC reporting, and regulatory compliance requirements in the financial services industry.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to develop and mentor a team.
• Strategic thinker with excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities to engage with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.
• Proficient in financial software and systems (including NetSuite), with a keen eye for leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency.

At Empower, we hire for people that push themselves to understand others and seek out ways to challenge their personal assumptions. Our hope is that by fostering such an environment, we strengthen our business and relationships by putting people first. We are committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workspace where everyone (regardless of age, education, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or any personal characteristics) feels like they belong. Even if your experience doesn’t exactly match up to our job description, you should feel empowered to apply regardless!