Director, Strategic Finance

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Strategic Finance to join our growing finance team. In this pivotal role, you will sit at the intersection of FP&A, Sales and Investor Relations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of SaaS business models, extensive experience with various pricing strategies, and a strong background in financial modeling. This leader will be responsible for leading the development and measurement of all revenue metrics, providing actionable insights that guide our go-to-market and product strategies. This position requires someone who can translate financial data into actionable business strategies and thrive in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

In this role, you will:

• Own Appian's revenue modeling and its future evolution as the company incorporates changes to enterprise software pricing.

• Lead the definition, development, tracking, and reporting of all critical SaaS revenue metrics, including but not limited to ARR, NRR, churn, and sales cycle length. Ensure accuracy, consistency, and actionable insights from these metrics.

• Analyze the financial impact of various SaaS pricing models (e.g., per-user, consumption-based, tiered, feature-based) and recommend optimal strategies to maximize revenue and profitability. Partner with product and sales teams on pricing adjustments and new product monetization.

• Partner with the sales and legal teams on complex enterprise deals, evaluating pricing structures, commercial terms, and their impact on profitability and revenue recognition.

• Collaborate with the entire FP&A team on creating and maintaining the consolidated company financial model.

• Develop and maintain scalable processes to enhance visibility into financial forecasts and performance, collaborating with teams across the business to maximize predictability.

• Drive special projects and conduct ad-hoc analyses to support decision making, including new products, marketing program spend, and other growth initiatives

• Prepare presentations and analysis for senior Finance leadership and Appian's executive team.

• Participate in special projects and initiatives as required.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in FP&A, strategic finance, or investment banking experience in a leadership or senior individual contributor role.

• Proven expertise and hands-on experience with multiple SaaS pricing models and their financial implications.

• Deep understanding of SaaS business models, key metrics, and revenue recognition principles (ASC 606).

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of the organization and external stakeholders.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Exceptional modeling and analytical skills, with fluency in planning tools like Excel, Anaplan, Power BI, and Tableau

• High comfort level operating in dynamic, ambiguous environments with a bias toward execution and results

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, or related discipline; MBA or CFA strongly preferred

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