Research & Development Accounting Manager

Perplexity is looking for an experienced R&D Accounting Manager to join our team revolutionizing the way people search and interact with the internet. The Finance and Accounting team at Perplexity is playing a critical role in defining and driving strategic and financial processes across the company and is looking for a technically skilled and detail-oriented individual who can prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. You will work closely with the Controller & Strategic Finance Team to build out our R&D and infrastructure accounting processes, empower informed decision-making and to ensure accurate financial reporting. This role will partner with both internal and external business stakeholders to manage data acquisition and to ensure a clear understanding of infrastructure costs. It will also be responsible for the end-to-end process of the capitalization of our internally developed software. This is a critical position supporting both the scale and accuracy of our infra-related and R&D financial processes, ensuring accounting processes are efficient, well-documented, and in compliance with US GAAP.

Responsibilities

- Own the detailed review of, and financial reporting for, infrastructure (incl. AI models) costs to support a timely and accurate month-end close.

- Drive improvements in the quality and accuracy of infrastructure-related reporting by working cross-functionally with internal stakeholders and infrastructure partners to improve the reliability of data and ensure the accuracy of vendor billing.

- Develop, document and maintain the process for capitalizing internally developed software in accordance with ASC 350.

- Build scalable processes and drive automation for infrastructure accounting and the capitalization of internally developed software to support the rapid growth of the business.

- Engage in technical accounting research to ensure the correct treatment of complex arrangements.

- Own the credit and refund processes with infrastructure partners to ensure contractual SLA performance and pricing terms are met

- Work closely with cross-functional partners in Strategic Finance, Product, Data and Engineering to remain informed on infra-related initiatives and to accurately determine capitalizable projects, features, etc.

- Support the audit preparation process including policy/memo writing, compiling supporting documentation, reconciliations and schedules, and delivering requests in a timely manner.

Requirements

- 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably a combination of public accounting and operational experience at a technology company.

- Strong understanding of US GAAP, particularly ASC 350 and ASC 220.

- A builder mindset that enjoys drawing the blueprint for automated, reliable and scalable processes.

- Best-in-class attention to detail and unwavering commitment to accuracy in an ever-changing business environment.

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills as demonstrated by the ability to partner with internal and external stakeholders across various parts of the business on complex topics.

- Strong understanding of AI development and platform infrastructure landscape.

- CPA or CA required.

- Experience with NetSuite preferred