Director, Strategic Finance

About the role

Viant is seeking a Director, Strategic Finance to serve as a cornerstone of our executive leadership team, driving the financial strategy that defines our future trajectory. This pivotal role owns the end-to-end financial lifecycle, translating complex data into clear narratives that guide major corporate decisions and ensure all initiatives are grounded in rigorous analysis. You will be responsible for shaping the financial future of the company by developing scenarios, maintaining model integrity, and providing executive-level insight to the Board and investors. Success in this position demands a blend of technical mastery and executive presence, with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization. The Director will oversee planning, execution, and review processes, ensuring financial discipline supports sustainable growth. You will challenge assumptions and provide data-driven perspectives that explain business performance and uncover strategic opportunities. Collaboration with Corporate Finance, Investor Relations, and Corporate Development is central to managing the quarterly earnings process and supporting M&A initiatives. Ultimately, this role translates intricate financial data into concise narratives that drive informed decisions at the highest level of the company.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Lead the development of forward-looking financial scenarios and strategic options analysis to guide long-term corporate planning.
• Own the integrity of our financial models and reporting frameworks, ensuring accuracy in consolidated 3-statement projections and key outputs.
• Provide guidance and review to the Senior Manager, Strategic Finance, challenging assumptions to ensure high-quality deliverables and strict deadline adherence.
• Prepare materials for the Board and Audit Committee, distilling intricate analyses into concise executive summaries that drive informed decision-making.
• Support M&A and strategic investment initiatives by conducting pro forma analysis in close partnership with Corporate Development.
• Collaborate with Corporate Finance and Investor Relations to lead the quarterly earnings process, offering data-driven perspectives on business performance.
• Translate complex financial data into clear narratives for executive leaders, ensuring financial insights are actionable and understandable.
• Manage end-to-end financial planning processes, including annual budgets and long-range plans, to align with corporate strategy.
• Identify key business drivers and articulate them to senior leaders, ensuring financial models reflect operational realities.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in accounting principles, demonstrating how financial decisions impact the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow.

Requirements

• Possess a minimum of 10 years of experience in strategic finance, corporate finance, investment banking, or private equity.
• Have direct experience with complex 3-statement financial models and the ability to manage long-range plans and annual budgets.
• Demonstrate prior experience managing a team, setting a clear direction, and developing talent while holding the team accountable for delivering accurate results.
• Show a strong grasp of accounting principles and how financial decisions impact the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow.
• Exhibit expertise in Excel and financial modeling, along with mastery of PowerPoint and executive communication skills.
• Bring strong analytical judgment and meticulous attention to detail to identify and communicate key business drivers.
• Hold a BS/BA in Finance, Economics, or a related field as a mandatory qualification.
• An MBA and/or CFA certification is a distinct advantage for this role.
• Thrive in a high-growth public company environment, navigating ambiguity and driving results with integrity.
• Commit to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and collaboration in all financial activities.

Nice to have

Preferred candidates will have prior experience in high-growth public companies, demonstrating an ability to manage complex financial initiatives under aggressive timelines. Additional expertise in corporate finance and investor relations is advantageous for supporting the quarterly earnings process and strategic communications. Familiarity with M&A due diligence and pro forma modeling enhances the ability to contribute effectively to corporate development initiatives.

Practical notes

This is a full-time position based in Irvine, California, requiring relocation or local candidacy. The role demands adherence to California employment regulations and corporate governance standards. No specific visa sponsorship details are provided; candidates must ensure eligibility to work in the United States. Travel is not expected for this role, allowing for full focus on local financial operations and strategic initiatives.