Sr Director, Accounting Shared Services (Accounts Payable, Payroll, and Equity)

Upwork ($UPWK) is the world’s largest work marketplace, connecting businesses with highly skilled professionals worldwide. From entrepreneurs to Fortune 100 enterprises, companies trust Upwork’s platform to access expert talent, leverage AI-powered work solutions, and drive meaningful business outcomes.

Upwork’s AI-powered platform has facilitated over $20 billion in economic opportunity for professionals worldwide. With professionals spanning 10,000+ skills, including AI and machine learning, software development, sales and marketing, customer support, finance and accounting, and more, Upwork empowers businesses of all sizes to scale, innovate, and build agile teams.

We are looking for a Sr. Director to lead Upwork’s Accounting Shared Services function, which encompasses Accounts Payable, Payroll, and Equity. This critical leadership role will own the evolution of our global finance operations footprint, driving efficiency, compliance, and scalability as we grow and expand internationally. This is an exciting opportunity to influence financial strategy, build cross-functional partnerships, and develop the next chapter of shared services at a remote-first marketplace company.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and scale global Shared Services operations, overseeing AP, Payroll, and Equity with a focus on quality, compliance, and customer experience
   

• Build and execute a strategic roadmap for the Shared Services function, identifying additional processes suitable for inclusion in a shared services model
   

• Partner with cross-functional stakeholders across Finance, Tax, Treasury, and FP&A to re-engineer high-impact workflows and transform end-to-end processes
   

• Spearhead complex initiatives including ERP system implementations, M&A integrations, and automation efforts that improve operational agility
   

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), service-level agreements, and internal controls that promote accountability and excellence
   

• Provide strategic leadership and people development for a growing team of finance professionals, fostering a culture of ownership, learning, and inclusivity
   

• Collaborate with internal and external audit partners to ensure compliance with SOX and other governance frameworks
   

• Deliver executive-level insights and recommendations based on financial performance and operational efficiency
   

What it takes to catch our eye:

• Demonstrated success leading global shared services or finance operations teams within a high-growth, multi-national environment
   

• Expertise in ERP systems, accounting operations, and process transformation, including cross-functional project leadership
   

• Proven ability to manage complexity, build scalable systems, and influence across functions at the senior leadership level
   

• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with a focus on business impact and customer-first thinking
   

• Experience in marketplace, SaaS, or fintech environments is a plus

Come change how the world works.

At Upwork, you’ll shape the future of work for a global, remote-first workforce, creating economic opportunities for professionals worldwide. While we have a physical office in Palo Alto, we currently hire full-time employees in 21 U.S. states, making it easier than ever to join our mission from wherever you call home.

Our culture is built on trust, risk-taking, customer focus, and excellence, all in service of our core mission: to create economic opportunities so people have better lives. We embrace authenticity and inclusion, encouraging everyone to bring their whole selves to work. Personal and professional growth is a priority here, supported through development programs, mentorship, and our Upwork Belonging Communities.

We’re proud to offer benefits that go beyond the basics, including comprehensive medical coverage for you and your family, unlimited PTO, a 401(k) plan with matching, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Visit our Life at Upwork page to learn more about our values, working principles, and the overall employee experience.

Ready to help shape the future of work? Check out our Careers page and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X to learn more about life at Upwork.

Upwork is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics under federal, state, or local law.

Please note that a criminal background check may be required once a conditional job offer is made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered in accordance with applicable law, including the California Fair Chance Act and local Fair Chance ordinances.