CFO Advisory Consultant

Job Overview

We are looking for a strategic, client-facing professional with a background in accounting—ideally with experience in both public accounting (audit) and private industry (controller or CFO‑level)—to serve as an outsourced CFO for a portfolio of clients. The position reports directly to the Principal, Director of Client Accounting & Advisory Services and is based in Kirkland, Washington, with a hybrid work schedule.

• Serve as the outsourced CFO for a dedicated portfolio of clients, acting as a trusted strategic advisor to ownership and leadership teams
• Lead forecasting, budgeting, and cash flow strategy to support client decision‑making in real time
• Build dashboards and KPI reporting (leveraging tools such as Reach Reporting) that turn financial data into forward‑looking insight
• Analyze financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to identify trends, risks, and opportunities
• Advise clients on best practices for accounting and finance operations, including process improvement and systems evaluation/implementation
• Partner with key client stakeholders to lead change management through growth, transitions, or operational shifts
• Support pre‑sale and pre‑acquisition diligence as needed
• Manage and prioritize a portfolio of clients independently, balancing virtual and on‑site engagement
• Collaborate with internal account teams (including our Global Team) to ensure the right work happens at the right level
• Perform other duties as assigned by the department managers

• Bachelor’s degree required in accounting or finance
• A minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience, ideally including at least three (3) years in public accounting (audit preferred) and three (3) years in private industry in a controller or senior finance role
• Demonstrated experience operating at or near the CFO level, including strategic planning, forecasting, scenario analysis, and executive‑level communication
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards
• A track record of managing multiple client relationships or business units simultaneously, with strong organizational and prioritization skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate financial details into clear guidance for non‑financial stakeholders
• Demonstrates a curious and collaborative mindset, consistently bringing thoughtful solutions and insights to clients and leadership
• Ability to work effectively across a diverse team environment, including coordination with offshore/global team members

• Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation is a plus

Pay range: $135,000–$189,000 per year. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; dependent coverage;
Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts; employer‑paid life and disability insurance; 401(k) plan with employer match; flexible time off (PTO); and 13 paid holidays.

At Ascend, we provide a fair and equal employment opportunity for all candidates regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, marital status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic. Ascend hires and promotes individuals solely based on qualifications for the position to be filled and business needs.