GAO Finance Systems Services, Managing Director

Why this role is important to us

Global Accounting Operations (GAO) is an integral part of Controllership and Finance. Some of the key accounting processes that are in GAO include Balance Sheet Substantiation, Revenue Accounting Expense Accounting, Specialized Accounting, Integrated Close & Intercompany and Finance Systems Services (FSS).

Global Accounting Operations (GAO) is looking for a senior Financial Systems leader to lead our Finance Systems Services (FSS) group. This is a critical role for Finance as it involves business oversight, ownership and support of key finance and accounting applications. It is felt absolutely necessary to have this role based out of Boston, given that the MD – FSS will be required to engage with Corporate Controllership, LFOs and various project teams as the application services being provided span across multiple groups outside of GAO.

This role has become even more critical with State Street’s move to Cloud based SAS tools where business ownership, State Street process knowledge and ability to support the next gen tools is key to getting the most value out of the investment. This role has to be aligned with Controllership as all these systems are used as part of the Close process, Internal and External reporting, and as the next Gen tools are business owned, and require a combination of Accounting/Finance knowledge along with systems expertise.

Our people being the core of our business, driving up the engagement levels would also be an essential imperative. The role requires leveraging the strong partnership that currently exists across Finance to communicate, escalate and update on a timely basis. This role will be a key direct report to the Head of Global Accounting Operations as we develop the target state operating model and best in class processes for the future of accounting.

What you will be responsible for

• Being the Business Owner for key Finance applications (refer to chart in next page) and, responsible for Chart of Account Maintenance, Issue Resolution, Legal Entity setup, Cost Center setup and all Finance systems related support for Acquisitions, Restructures and Business Unit Reorgs
• Lead a team of 21 in total across Boston and GFC India, with 7 direct reports.
• Advise Finance and provide strategic direction in terms of tool choice, upgrades and implementation methodology for more than a dozen key large scale applications across Finance globally, including Corporate General Ledger and Consolidation tools used for External Reporting
• Coordinate with IT for all technical issues, upgrades, system patches and integrations
• To manage, mentor and lead a team of highly skilled individuals to drive systems strategy and innovation to support a suite of financial applications, tools, and supporting systems
• Provide expert analytical skills, with the ability to quickly identify scope/impact of issues during high-pressure situations to support suite of global Finance applications (supporting tools
• Supporting and playing a key role in all Finance Systems projects, be it moving to the new Cloud ERP platform or enhancements to existing systems

What we value

• Understanding of State Street Accounting Platforms and Processes
• Very good understanding of underlying technology to be able to participate in technology discussions and provide direction
• In depth understanding and experience in implementation and design of master data management tools like
  • Oracle ERP
  • FCCS
  • Oracle DRM/EDM,
  • Reconciliation tools like ARCS,
• An in depth understanding of the Chart of Accounts and Hierarchies
• In depth understanding of Oracle security model, Controls, GRC/RMC tools
• Ability to work closely with audit teams and supporting internal and external system audits
• Experience working on Fed and ECB audits and ability to present to the regulators and answer questions they may have on inner workings of the Accounting Systems and Processes
• Support and drive all system changes required for all major Restructures and Acquisitions
• Ability to navigate through complex organizational structures, resolving tactical issues and providing guidance to the team through various execution workstreams
• Partnering on large scale global enterprise programs and system implementation and/or experience in driving complex, firm wide projects across multiple stakeholders
• Proven leadership skills in managing large teams, developing and maturing the team skill-set and motivating teams through challenging environments

Education & Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelors in Accounting with a Masters in Accounting or Finance
• 12+ years of experience in the Financial Services industry, Designing, Implementing and Supporting Industry Standard Finance Systems
• Architect level experience and proficiency in designing and implementing financial applications including General Ledger and Consolidation systems for a large global financial services company

Are you the right candidate? Yes

We truly believe in the power that comes from the diverse backgrounds and experiences our employees bring with them. Although each vacancy details what we are looking for, we don’t necessarily need you to fulfil all of them when applying. If you like change and innovation, seek to see the bigger picture, make data driven decisions and are a good team player, you could be a great fit.

About State Street

What we do. State Street is one of the largest custodian banks, asset managers and asset intelligence companies in the world. From technology to product innovation, we’re making our mark on the financial services industry. For more than two centuries, we’ve been helping our clients safeguard and steward the investments of millions of people. We provide investment servicing, data & analytics, investment research & trading and investment management to institutional clients.

Work, Live and Grow. We make all efforts to create a great work environment. Our benefits packages are competitive and comprehensive. Details vary by location, but you may expect generous medical care, insurance and savings plans, among other perks. You’ll have access to flexible Work Programs to help you match your needs. And our wealth of development programs and educational support will help you reach your full potential.

Inclusion, Diversity and Social Responsibility. We truly believe our employees’ diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives are a powerful contributor to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and reach their maximum potential while adding value to both our organization and our clients. We warmly welcome candidates of diverse origin, background, ability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and personality. Another fundamental value at State Street is active engagement with our communities around the world, both as a partner and a leader. You will have tools to help balance your professional and personal life, paid volunteer days, matching gift programs and access to employee networks that help you stay connected to what matters to you.

State Street is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

Salary Range:

The range quoted above applies to the role in the primary location specified. If the candidate would ultimately work outside of the primary location above, the applicable range could differ.