SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) scale-ups look for FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis) leaders who can drive data-driven decision-making, optimize growth, and ensure financial sustainability. Here’s what they value most:
1. Strong Data & Analytics Mindset
- Ability to build real-time dashboards for revenue, churn, and customer lifetime value (LTV).
- Expertise in financial modeling for pricing strategies, unit economics, and ARR/MRR forecasting.
- Proficiency in BI tools (Tableau, Looker, Power BI) and SaaS-specific metrics (CAC, LTV, NRR, GRR, burn rate, runway).
2. Growth-Oriented Financial Planning
- Deep understanding of scaling revenue efficiently while controlling costs.
- Forecasting future cash burn, runway, and fundraising needs.
- Ability to align sales, marketing, and product teams to drive profitable growth.
3. Strategic Partner to Leadership
- Works closely with the CEO, CFO, and department heads to provide insights and support strategic decisions.
- Helps define go-to-market (GTM) strategies and expansion plans.
- Supports M&A, fundraising, and investor relations with clear financial storytelling.
4. Understanding of SaaS Business Models
- Experience with subscription revenue models and the nuances of monthly vs. annual contracts, upsells, and renewals.
- Knowledge of PLG (Product-Led Growth) vs. Sales-Led Growth financial dynamics.
- Expertise in capital efficiency and profitability metrics (Rule of 40, Gross Margin, Magic Number, CAC Payback).
5. Operational Efficiency & Process Automation
- Ability to streamline budgeting and forecasting using automation tools.
- Implementation of scalable finance processes and systems to support rapid growth.
- Experience integrating ERP, CRM, and FP&A software (Adaptive Insights, Anaplan, NetSuite, Salesforce, etc.).
6. Agility & Adaptability
- Comfortable working in fast-paced, high-growth environments where priorities shift quickly.
- Proactive in identifying risks and opportunities before they become problems.
- Skilled at balancing short-term cash flow needs with long-term strategic goals.
7. Storytelling & Communication Skills
- Ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-finance leaders.
- Strong presentation skills for investor updates, board meetings, and executive discussions.
- Focused on influencing data-driven decisions across the company.
The Bottom Line:
SaaS scale-ups want an FP&A leader who goes beyond spreadsheets—someone who thinks strategically, embraces automation, and provides insights that drive business growth and profitability.
Are you looking to hire an FP&A leader, or are you preparing for a role in one?
Hands-on professional in senior finance seeking new opportunities. Industry experience includes SaaS and professional services in SME's. In Private Equity-backed and listed companies, and in London and internationally.
3 周Thanks Simon, very helpful.