Finance Director

Finance Director at The Ocean Cleanup

MISSION TO METRICS

The mission of The Ocean Cleanup is to develop technology to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. As we grow in complexity and global impact, we are seeking a Finance Director to responsibly lead our scaling, improve financial processes, and drive strategic decision-making through data and insight.

“Financial Leadership is at the heart of our scale up journey. While our mission is very ambitious, we need the Finance function to guide us in growing responsibly. The main challenge I see ahead is to build a Finance function that is resilient, can stay ahead of the game, and clear headed in handling high-pressure high-speed environment, while creating healthy boundaries and still customer oriented and problem solving focused.” Stacey Santoso CFO

THE ASSIGNMENT

As Finance Director you will be leading our finance team and responsible for strengthening financial operations, managing risk, and enabling data-driven decisions. You will lead initiatives in business process improvement, digital transformation, FP&A development, and financial controls, corporate risk management, while supporting the organization’s scale-up journey—including international expansion, commercial partnerships, and navigating complex financial structures. This role requires a proven finance leader who is hands-on, thrives in ambiguity, and can navigate maturing processes and complex stakeholder environments with a strong sense of ownership and integrity.
The Financial Director reports to the CFO, who carries broad responsibilities to lead the internal organization as well as our enabling functions (Finance, People & Organization, Legal, Data & IT, Supply Chain and Quality, Health and Safety).

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Partner with the CFO to shape and execute financial strategy, while leading overall core financial processes including financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting processes with a focus on impact and sustainability.
• Support the organization’s global growth by developing scalable financial processes, ensuring compliance with international regulations, leading financial integration of new entities, and managing risks related to international expansion.
• Mature the FP&A function by implementing scalable forecasting, scenario planning, and performance tracking tools, establishing KPIs and dashboards, and aligning financial plans with operational goals to support strategic growth.
• Oversee global tax strategy, compliance, audits, and internal controls to ensure transparency, accountability, and risk mitigation.
• Design and implement governance frameworks to support financial integrity across all processes and entities.
• Serve as a strategic partner to commercial, operational, and program teams by offering financial insights for pricing, negotiations, and partnerships, while leading financial aspects of contracts and building cross-departmental collaboration to align planning with business goals.

PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

“Even if you don’t meet every professional qualification listed, we strongly encourage you to apply if you believe you have the right skills, experience, and motivation to contribute to our mission. We recognize that talent and potential come in many forms, and we value diverse perspectives and unconventional career paths. If you’re passionate about the work we do and confident in your ability to make an impact, don’t hesitate to submit your application—we’d love to hear from you”

• Higher degree or qualifications (RC or equivalent is a plus)
• Proven experience in a senior finance leadership role (10+ years), ideally with experience on scaling organization.
• Strong track record in FP&A, team leadership, risk management, tax strategy, financial controls, and digital transformation.
• Experience managing international finance operations, including multi-entity structures, global compliance, and cross-border transactions.
• Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and communicate across levels.
• Expertise in financial reporting, impact analysis, and decision support.
• Experience in international finance, grant management, or non-profit sector is a plus.
• Knowledge of Dutch GAAP, IFRS, US GAAP

PERSONAL QUALITIES

• Strong Work Ethic & Commitment – Demonstrates reliability, accountability, and dedication to the mission.
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity and driving clarity in evolving contexts.
• Hands-on approach with a strategic mindset and operational rigor.
• Able to say “no” when needed, while maintaining positive relationships and a service-oriented mindset.
• Empathetic & Collaborative – Builds trust across teams and fosters a culture of transparency and accountability.
• Demonstrates high ethical standards and a commitment to responsible financial management.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS

• Starting date: As soon as possible
• Conducting a pre-employment check is part of our recruitment process.