Controller - Technical Accounting & Policy

The application window is expected to close on: 10/08/2026 Meet the Team Exciting changes are happening within the Cisco Finance organization as we shift to become even more focused on our business partners and drive major transformational initiatives in the way we operate. As a Controller in the Technical Accounting group, you will serve as a trusted advisor on Cisco’s most complex and judgmental accounting matters.

You will research, document, and communicate the accounting for significant and non-routine transactions. You will partner closely with Corporate Controllership, External Reporting, Tax, Treasury, Legal, Corporate Development, and the business to ensure transactions are appropriately accounted for and disclosed in Cisco’s SEC filings. This role provides a great opportunity for high visibility with senior Finance leadership and to influence how US GAAP is applied across Cisco.

The ideal candidate is a technically strong accountant with a national office or accounting advisory background who can translate complex guidance into clear, practical conclusions. We are looking for a proactive, collaborative self-starter with sound judgment who is comfortable owning ambiguous issues end-to-end, engaging with business partners early in the deal lifecycle, and presenting and defending positions with senior leadership and external auditors.

Research, analyze, and document the accounting for complex and non-routine transactions under US GAAP. Author and review technical accounting memos and position papers that clearly articulate the facts, key issues, alternatives considered, authoritative guidance, and conclusions reached. Consult with business partners on proposed transactions and contract structures prior to execution to identify accounting implications and support informed decision making. Monitor FASB, SEC, and other standard-setting activity;

assess the impact of new accounting standards on Cisco’s financial statements, disclosures, processes, and controls, and lead implementation efforts. Develop, maintain, and communicate Cisco’s global accounting policies, and serve as a resource to the worldwide Controllership organization on the interpretation and application of those policies. Partner with External Reporting on 10-K and 10-Q disclosures. Serve as a primary point of contact with the external auditors on technical accounting matters, including significant judgments and estimates.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
• Active CPA license required
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including experience in a Big 4 national office (accounting consultation / professional practice) or a financial accounting advisory role
• Deep knowledge of US GAAP and SEC reporting requirements, with a demonstrated ability to research and apply authoritative guidance to complex fact patterns
• Excellent analytical, interpersonal, and communication skills, including the ability to write clear, concise technical memos and explain complex matters to non-accounting audiences

• Combination of public accounting and industry experience with a large, multinational SEC registrant
• Experience leading the adoption of new accounting standards
• Master’s degree in Accounting or related field

At Cisco, we’re revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era – and beyond. We’ve been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint. Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment…