VP of Finance

Job Description:

Element451 is an AI-driven digital workforce platform built for higher education. We empower colleges and universities to transform how they recruit, enroll, and engage students - replacing fragmented tools with an intelligent, unified system that automates workflows, delivers personalized engagement at scale, and unlocks actionable insights.

Backed by PSG, Element451 combines CRM, CDP, marketing automation, and advanced data capabilities into a single, AI-powered platform. Our embedded AI capabilities streamline communication, optimize decision-making, and free up teams to focus on high-impact work - delivering measurable results across the student lifecycle.

The Opportunity:

We’re looking for a strategic, hands-on VP of Finance to lead and scale the finance and accounting function during a transformative period of growth. Reporting directly to the CEO, this person will be a trusted advisor to the executive team and PSG, helping to shape our financial strategy, optimize performance, and support M&A activity.

This is a unique opportunity for someone who thrives in fast-paced, high-growth SaaS environments and enjoys building systems, teams, and structure from the ground up.

What you'll own:

Strategic Finance & Operations

• Lead FP&A, forecasting, financial modeling, and long-term planning.

• Design and implement KPIs that drive decision-making across the business.

• Partner with execs to align resources and capital with strategic growth initiatives.

Build & Scale the Finance Function

• Stand up scalable processes, systems, and reporting packages.

• Drive accountability by collaborating with functional leaders on budgets, variance analysis, and performance.

M&A and Integration

• Support diligence on acquisition opportunities and lead post-close integration of systems, teams, and processes.

Investor Relations & Board Reporting

• Serve as the financial liaison to PSG and our Board.

• Prepare compelling and transparent board presentations and investor updates.

Core Financial Management

• Oversee accounting operations including GL, AP/AR, tax, payroll, and financial reporting.

• Lead the company through its first financial audit and ensure GAAP compliance.

Maintain a strong control environment and manage risk, treasury, and cash flow.

What you'll bring:

• 10+ years of finance experience in high-growth SaaS businesses; PE or VC backed experience strongly preferred.

• Prior experience as VP Finance, Head of Finance, or Controller in a scaling organization.

• Expertise in building finance infrastructure, systems, and processes from the ground up.

• Strong FP&A capabilities, with the ability to translate data into insight and strategy.

• Deep experience managing audits, board reporting, cash flow, compliance, and controls.

• Experience with M&A: diligence, integration, and financial modeling.

• A roll-up-your-sleeves attitude-comfortable working lean while thinking big.

• A strong sense of intellectual curiosity, with a drive to understand the “why” behind data, trends, and decisions.

• An AI-forward mindset - open to leveraging automation and technology to improve efficiency, insight, and strategic outcomes.

• CPA preferred; MBA or advanced degree a plus.

We’re driven by our values:

• Impactful, not Immediate – We prioritize meaningful, long-term outcomes.

• Progress before Perfection – We take action and learn as we go.

• Learners before Masters – Curiosity and humility fuel our growth.

• Together, not Alone – Collaboration is our superpower.

• Customer Success, not Support – We’re partners in our clients’ outcomes.

Perks & Benefits:

• Remote-first, flexible work environment.

• 20 PTO days + 10 company holidays.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.

• 401(k) with 4% employer match.

• Learning & development support.

• Modern tech + opportunity to work with AI-driven tools.

• Fast-moving, mission-driven culture.

• High-impact work that improves access to higher education.