Cisco

Director, Finance - Strategy

Cisco$217K — $283K *
Legal & Accounting
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field.
  • 10+ years of progressive finance experience in leadership roles.
  • 3+ years of experience supporting executive leadership in large organizations.
  • 10+ years of expertise in corporate finance, FP&A, or strategic finance.
  • 10+ years of experience in financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting processes.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes with accounting teams.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to the C-suite, translating financial results into actionable business narratives.
  • Drive process improvements and lead system transformations with AI-driven financial tools.
  • Prepare and deliver high-impact briefing documents for senior stakeholders.
  • Mentor and lead a high-performing finance team focused on accountability and collaboration.

Benefits

  • Collaborative and high-performing work environment.
  • Opportunities for continuous professional growth and mentorship.
  • Chance to influence organizational financial strategy at an executive level.
  • Engagement with cutting-edge financial technologies and tools.
Full Job Description
The application window is expected to close on: 07/10/2026
Job posting may be removed earlier if the position is filled or if a sufficient number of applications are received.

Meet the Team

The Strategy Finance team serves as the financial backbone for the organization's most critical executive functions. We act as a bridge between complex financial data and high-level business strategy, in this case partnering directly with the Chief Strategy Officer. Our team is dedicated to operational excellence, providing the insight, modeling, and financial rigor vital to drive enterprise-wide initiatives and ensure the fiscal health of the Legal and Strategy departments.

Your Impact

As the Finance Director, you will blend executive-level partnership with hands-on financial execution. You will own the financial planning, reporting, and analysis for these functions, ensuring accuracy while providing the strategic narrative that guides leadership decision-making.
  • Financial Leadership: Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, ensuring compliance and accuracy in partnership with accounting teams.
  • Strategic Advisory: Serve as a trusted advisor to the C-suite, translating financial results into actionable business narratives and providing mentorship on legal spend and strategic investments.
  • Operational Excellence: Drive process improvements, lead system transformations, and champion the adoption of AI-driven financial tools.
  • Executive Communication: Prepare and deliver high-impact briefing documents and presentations, distilling complex data into clear insights for senior stakeholders.
  • Team Development: Mentor and lead a high-performing finance team, encouraging a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional growth.


Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field or equivalent combination of skills and experience.
  • 10+ years of progressive finance experience, including significant time in leadership roles.
  • 3+ years of experience supporting executive leadership (e.g., CFO, CLO, CSO, SVP, EVP or equivalent) within a large, complex organization.
  • 10+ years of expertise in corporate finance, FP&A, or strategic finance.
  • 10+ years of experience in financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting processes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
  • Prior experience supporting Legal or Strategy business functions.
  • Outstanding emotional intelligence (EQ) with a proven track record to influence and navigate sophisticated organizational dynamics.
  • Consistent track record of driving process transformations and implementing new financial technologies.
  • Ability to balance tactical "in the weeds" execution with high-level strategic thinking.
  • High level of integrity, professionalism, and discretion when handling sensitive data.


Note: This role requires a highly collaborative leader who can seamlessly shift between detailed execution and executive-level strategy.

About Cisco

Cisco Careers

Join the vibrant team at Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity solutions, where innovation and leadership thrive. Cisco offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a range of skills and experiences, making it an ideal place for both seasoned professionals and those seeking an internship to jumpstart their career. Work You’ll Do At Cisco, you’ll be part of a culture that values diversity, leadership, and professional growth. Engage in work that matters with a team that combines technology, creativity, and the power of human connection to redefine networking. Cisco’s commitment to innovation isn’t just about technology, but also about transforming the way we work and collaborate. Cisco’s employment philosophy supports career advancement and nurtures a leadership pipeline that is equipped with diversity training and opportunities for growth. Whether you’re applying your skills to drive our latest innovations or using our vast networking capabilities to solve complex problems, at Cisco, every role is impactful. Join Our Dynamic Team Explore job opportunities in areas ranging from engineering to marketing, sales to cybersecurity. Cisco is hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and ready to drive change. Positions at Cisco offer competitive benefits, a supportive culture, and the chance to work with cutting-edge technology. Internship Programs Kickstart your career with a Cisco internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, enhance your resume, and build professional networks that last a lifetime. Our internships provide hands-on experience and the chance to work on projects that matter. Leadership and Development Cisco is committed to fostering leadership skills and providing employees with the training needed to succeed. Our leadership programs help you develop new skills, manage teams effectively, and lead with confidence. Cisco’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career path is as dynamic as our technologies. Benefits and Culture Cisco understands the importance of a balanced life. Our benefits package is designed to ensure that our team members are healthy, happy, and secure. At Cisco, you’ll find a supportive culture that encourages open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect. Stay Connected Join Cisco’s Talent Network Stay informed about new positions that match your skills and interests. At Cisco, we value the curiosity and unique perspectives of our team members. Subscribe to receive personalized job alerts and insider tips directly from our hiring managers. Explore Cisco Jobs Ready to advance your career at Cisco? Search open positions, prepare your resume, and get ready for an interview that could lead to your next big opportunity. At Cisco, we’re not just filling positions—we’re investing in leaders. Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at Cisco.
Learn more about Cisco
Size
79,500 employees
Market Cap
$194.5 billion
Industry
Net Income
$10.1 billion
Founded
2014
5 Year Trend
+1.4%
Revenue
$48 billion
NASDAQ

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