VP of FinanceJob Description

Everything recruiters need to write, post, and fill a vp of finance role—fast.

Job Description Sample

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Job Title: VP of Finance

Location: New York, NY / Hybrid

Type: Full-time

About the Role:

We're seeking an experienced VP of Finance to lead our financial operations and strategy. You'll oversee financial planning, risk management, and compliance while partnering with executive leadership to drive business growth.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily financial operations and accounting functions
  • Lead annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting processes
  • Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations
  • Manage relationships with banks and financial institutions
  • Analyze financial data and present insights to executives
  • Optimize capital allocation and investment strategies
  • Supervise finance team members and department operations
  • Coordinate external audits and financial reporting

Perks:

  • Competitive salary with performance bonuses
  • Comprehensive health and dental coverage
  • 401(k) matching program
  • Flexible hybrid work arrangement

VP of Finance Responsibilities

Hiring a vp of finance? Here's what you can expect them to handle:

  • Direct all financial planning, analysis, and reporting activities
  • Develop and implement financial strategies aligned with business goals
  • Manage cash flow, treasury operations, and capital structure
  • Oversee tax planning, preparation, and regulatory compliance
  • Lead financial risk assessment and mitigation strategies
  • Build and mentor high-performing finance teams
  • Present financial insights to board and stakeholders
  • Drive process improvements and financial system implementations
VP of Finance Job Description

Qualifications to Be a VP of Finance

Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:

CheckmarkBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration
Checkmark10+ years of progressive finance or accounting experience
Checkmark5+ years in financial leadership or management roles
CheckmarkCPA, CFA, or MBA strongly preferred
CheckmarkDeep expertise in financial modeling and analysis

VP of Finance Prerequisites

Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:

CheckmarkProven track record managing multi-million dollar budgets
CheckmarkStrong understanding of GAAP and regulatory requirements
CheckmarkExperience with financial systems and ERP platforms
CheckmarkExcellent strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
CheckmarkDemonstrated ability to lead cross-functional initiatives

VP of Finance Hard Skills

The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:

CheckFinancial Analysis: Modeling, forecasting, variance analysis
CheckAccounting Software: NetSuite, SAP, QuickBooks Enterprise
CheckERP Systems: Oracle Financials, Microsoft Dynamics
CheckData Analytics: Excel (advanced), Power BI, Tableau
CheckFinancial Reporting: GAAP compliance, SEC filings
CheckTreasury Management: Cash flow optimization, capital allocation
CheckTax Planning: Corporate tax strategy, compliance
CheckBudgeting Tools: Adaptive Insights, Anaplan

VP of Finance Soft Skills

Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.

CheckStrategic vision and business acumen
CheckExecutive-level communication and presentation abilities
CheckStrong leadership and team development
CheckInfluential stakeholder management
CheckCritical thinking and analytical reasoning
CheckAdaptability in dynamic environments
CheckCollaborative cross-functional partnership
CheckEmotional intelligence and relationship building

Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout VP of Finance Hiring

In larger organizations, the VP of Finance reports to the CFO and handles operational execution, while the CFO focuses on strategic vision and board-level decisions. In smaller companies, these roles often overlap or the VP of Finance serves as the top financial executive.

Yes, though public accounting experience is valuable for technical depth. Strong candidates from corporate finance, FP&A leadership, or treasury roles can excel if they demonstrate strategic thinking, compliance knowledge, and team leadership capabilities.

At the VP level, prioritize leadership and strategic thinking. Technical competency is essential but assumed at this level. Focus on their ability to influence executives, build teams, and translate financial data into actionable business strategy.

Present case studies involving financial challenges your company faces—cash flow issues, investment decisions, or budget constraints. Evaluate their analytical approach, strategic recommendations, and how they communicate complex financial concepts to non-finance stakeholders.

Watch for lack of hands-on experience with compliance or audits, inability to explain past strategic decisions, poor communication skills, or limited experience managing teams. Also concerning: frequent job changes without clear progression or gaps in technical knowledge for their experience level.

Tools and Programs VP of Finance Use

Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:

Financial Planning

Adaptive InsightsAnaplan

Business Intelligence

TableauPower BI

ERP Platforms

SAPOracle Financials

Accounting Systems

NetSuiteQuickBooks

Spreadsheet Tools

ExcelGoogle Sheets

Collaboration

Microsoft TeamsSlack

Project Management

AsanaMonday.com

Data Visualization

LookerQlik

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