Technical Accounting Manager

Job Description

As the Technical Accounting Manager, you will play a critical role in ensuring Tailscale’s financial reporting meets the highest accuracy, compliance, and transparency standards. You will own the company’s technical accounting processes, guide it through its first audit, and be a key partner to the Controller and broader finance team. This is a unique opportunity to shape the financial infrastructure of a fast-paced, innovative company.

Key Responsibilities

Lead First-Time Audit:

• Drive the planning and execution of Tailscale’s first financial statement audit.
• Act as the primary liaison with external auditors, providing timely and accurate documentation and responses.
• Ensure audit readiness by implementing appropriate internal controls and processes.

Technical Accounting Expertise:

• Research, interpret, and apply accounting standards (e.g., US GAAP, IFRS) to complex transactions, such as revenue recognition, stock-based compensation, and SaaS-related arrangements.
• Prepare technical accounting memos and documentation to support the company’s accounting positions.
• Monitor and implement new accounting pronouncements as applicable to the company.

Financial Reporting:

• Oversee the preparation of accurate and timely financial statements and related disclosures.
• Partner with the finance and operations teams to ensure data integrity and compliance with accounting policies.

Internal Controls and Policies:

• Develop and document accounting policies and procedures.
• Design and implement internal controls over financial reporting to ensure compliance with Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) requirements (if applicable).

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with legal, sales, and product teams to understand and assess the accounting implications of business initiatives.
• Provide insights and recommendations to senior management on accounting and financial matters.

What We Are Looking For

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA designation preferred.

Experience:

• 6+ years of relevant accounting experience, with at least 2-3 years in a Big 4 accounting firm.
• Experience leading or participating in first-time audits and working in a SaaS or technology environment is highly preferred.

Technical Expertise:

• Deep knowledge of US GAAP, IFRS, and technical accounting issues.
• Proven experience with ASC 606 (Revenue Recognition), ASC 718 (Stock-Based Compensation), and other relevant standards.

Skills:

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Exceptional attention to detail and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex accounting concepts for non-accountants.
• Tools: Proficiency in financial systems and tools (e.g., NetSuite, ERP systems, Excel).

As a company, we strive to maintain fair and equitable compensation practices within our team across all roles and all levels. Tailscale's compensation package includes base salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits. The salary range displayed on each job posting represents the target range for a new hire's base salary. Individual offers may vary based on experience and skill set.