Director, Strategic Finance

Job Description: Director, Strategic Finance

About Palm Tree
Palm Tree is a modern M&A value creation firm that integrates financial consulting, operational consulting, and investment banking services. Founded in 2010, Palm Tree specializes in supporting private equity firms, business operators, and management teams through strategic events such as mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, carve-outs, recapitalizations, restructurings, and performance improvement initiatives. The firm’s unique model combines the expertise of private equity, Big-4 accounting, and investment banking, delivering actionable solutions tailored to the challenges of middle-market businesses.

Position Overview
We are looking for a dynamic leader to join our Strategic Finance practice. The ideal candidate has a strong background in financial modeling, reporting, and processes, gained from consulting, private equity, or similar environments. This role is ideal for an individual with substantial FP&A experience who has served as a strategic partner to C-level executives during periods of growth or transition. Prior experience in client services, particularly in Big 4 or similar consulting firms, is required. If you have a blend of technical financial expertise, leadership skills, and a proven ability to foster client relationships, we encourage you to apply.

As a Director the Strategic Finance group, you will lead our “Office of the CFO” practice, overseeing teams that deliver complex FP&A analyses, financial modeling, and capital structure optimization. This role offers the opportunity to shape strategic business decisions, lead high-impact engagements, and play a vital role in our clients’ success.

Key Deliverables:

• 13-Week Cash Flow Models
• Annual Operating Plans (AOPs)
• Management Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) Tools

• Strategic Leadership: Guide project teams and maintain consistent communication with clients.
• Financial Expertise: Lead the design and execution of detailed financial models and quantitative analyses.
• Client Engagement: Facilitate meetings, present insights, and provide actionable recommendations.
• Change Management: Consult on restructuring team processes and business operations.
• Team Development: Mentor and develop junior and mid-level team members.
• Business Development: Identify and pursue new business opportunities, contributing to Palm Tree’s growth.
• Thought Leadership: Publish insights, speak at industry events, and position yourself as an expert in strategic finance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

• 10+ years in FP&A, corporate finance, investment banking, restructuring, or private equity.
• Proven track record in client services or PE-backed portfolio companies.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong financial acumen and technical expertise.
• Exceptional leadership and project management capabilities.

• Collaborative mindset, self-motivation, and a commitment to excellence.
• Ability to thrive under pressure in fast-paced environments.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Inquisitive and proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Base Salary $200k–$225k, plus a performance-based incentive bonus.
• Medical, dental, and vision premium coverage.
• Competitive 401k program.
• Unlimited paid time off (PTO).
• Robust maternity/paternity leave program.
• Travel: 25%–50% travel may be required.

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What to Expect When Applying

Whether this is your first time applying to Palm Tree or you’ve connected with us before, you are welcome to use this portal to submit an updated résumé, cover letter, or other materials. Our recruiting team will thoughtfully incorporate your most recent information into your existing application profile. And yes—we do read cover letters. In fact, the cover letter is a great place to demonstrate why you're qualified for a position, even if you do not meet all requirements.

Application Confirmation
After submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming that we’ve received your materials.

Initial Review
Once your application has been reviewed and added to our active candidate database, you will receive a second confirmation email. Timing for this step can vary based on current hiring needs and priorities, so we appreciate your patience.

Note: If a role is marked as an “immediate” opening, the posting will typically outline specific timelines for each stage of the process, including a potential start date.

Screening
If and when a suitable opportunity arises, a member of our hiring team will reach out to schedule an introductory conversation. The timing of this step is demand-driven and can vary.

Interviews
Qualified candidates will be invited into a formal interview process. As with earlier stages, timing may vary depending on hiring priorities and role requirements.

While we do carefully review every application, we are unable to provide individual feedback to all candidates due to application volume. We value transparency and sincerely appreciate your understanding.

Important Notice
Palm Tree is not currently engaging outside recruiters or headhunters for this search. Unsolicited résumé submissions from third parties may inadvertently disqualify a candidate. All interested and qualified candidates should apply directly through this portal.