Sandbox

Compensation

Full Description

Middle Seat is the go-to digital powerhouse agency for progressive candidates and causes—and we’re looking for a Finance Director, with Controller-level experience, to help us keep our financial engine running at full throttle. We’ve raised hundreds of millions of dollars for game-changing campaigns, and our 40+ strategists, creatives, and tech wizards are all in on creating a more just and equitable world. Now, we need a seasoned financial mind to help us sustain that work—and take it even further. About the Role: We’re seeking a strategic finance leader to own all Middle Seat’s core financial operations. This role is responsible for overseeing accounting systems, managing financial reporting and compliance, and driving long-term planning and profitability. Reporting directly to the COO, this role will serve as a trusted advisor across the company—helping to shape and implement the financial strategy that powers our growth. This is a great opportunity for a finance professional who knows when to get into the weeds of month-end close and when to step out to develop multi-year forecasts. The Finance Director will lead a small team and collaborate cross-functionally to ensure our systems are sound, our reporting is accurate, and our resources are being deployed wisely. Key Responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Accounting Operations Oversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll Ensure accurate month-end and year-end close processes Maintain financial systems, controls, and documentation in compliance with GAAP Supervise client paid media accounting and reconciliations Coordinate with external accountants on tax preparation and filings Financial Reporting & Analysis Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements Develop dashboards and performance metrics for internal stakeholders Analyze actuals vs. budget and provide variance explanations Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and internal policies Budgeting & Forecasting Lead the company-wide annual budget process Partner with department heads to develop and track team-level budgets Build rolling forecasts and long-term financial models to support strategic planning Prepare pro forma financials for new initiatives, investments, or hires Strategic Financial Planning Identify opportunities for cost savings and margin improvement Evaluate capital expenditures and growth investments Monitor financial trends and provide data-driven recommendations to leadership Help design and implement financial policies, benefits strategies, and compensation planning Cash Management & Treasury Monitor cash flow and maintain optimal liquidity Oversee bank relationships and any corporate debt Establish and maintain internal cash controls Track and advise on debt covenants, interest payments, and credit lines Risk Management & Compliance Identify financial risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies Ensure compliance with tax laws, labor regulations, and reporting standards Stay informed about emerging regulations that may impact the organization About You: You’ve got a head for numbers and a heart for mission. You can tell a compelling story with a balance sheet and sleep well knowing every penny is in the right place. You’re just as comfortable talking GAAP to a non-accounting colleague as you are advising on long-term growth strategies with the Partners. You’re not just here to “keep the books”—you’re here to build a stronger, smarter, more sustainable organization from the inside out. What You’ll Do (in a nutshell): Lead budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning Oversee all accounting ops—payroll, AP/AR, reporting, tax compliance Translate complex financial info into clear, actionable insight for our team Help guide our long-term strategy and ensure we’re set up for scalable growth Spot risks before they become problems and build smart mitigation plans Contribute to a culture of transparency, continuous improvement, and cross-functional alignment Must-Haves: 6+ years of accounting/finance experience. Bonus points if you’ve lead a department of 1 and/or managed a small team previously A love of process, precision, and people (we’re a collaborative bunch) Experience with QuickBooks Online and Google Sheets Ability to work independently and make decisions with confidence CPA or CMA? Even better. Nice-to-Haves: Experience using Ramp Managed finances in a nonprofit, political, or agency environment Perks & Benefits: Profit-sharing + 401k match (6%—yes, really) Fully covered health, dental, and vision– fully covered, as in 100% employer paid 20 days of PTO + birthday + work anniversary off Unlimited sick leave + 12 weeks paid parental leave $300 in mental health reimbursement + $100 student loan stipend + $50 cell phone stipend $1000 in professional development budget + remote coworking perks + commuter benefits We are committed to building a diverse and passionate team. We encourage creative-minded individuals with a strong technical aptitude to apply for this position. Women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Our firm is values-driven. We are intentional with the progressive clients we work with — and we strive to make our work environment and benefits reflect that, including salary transparency, healthy work-life balance, and consistent employee feedback and communication. We’re happy to talk more about our company culture with prospective applicants.