OpenAI partnered with Catalyst BPX to scale their Finance and Accounting functions, achieving a 60% reduction in operational costs vs. alternative staffing options and freeing up leadership to focus on strategic initiatives. The 32-member team in the Philippines now manages key financial tasks, improves accuracy and compliance, and is already 4x the size of the initial 8-person engagement as a result of their rapid value add.
OpenAI, a leader in AI research and technology, began their partnership with Catalyst BPX in February 2024, building an offshore team in the Philippines focused on Finance & Accounting functions.
The team of 32 members is focused on a variety of key finance and accounting areas, including revenue management, accounts receivable, and corporate accounting.
OpenAI wanted an outsourcing partner so that they could focus on scaling their rapidly growing business without the distractions of finding offshore leadership. They didn’t have time to develop their overseas talent networks, or to manage payroll, benefits, and local legal compliance for another legal entity.
They worked with one of the largest and best known outsourcing firms at first, but struggled with their high cost, rigidity, and underperformance.
Catalyst BPX provided expert recruitment for finance roles with transparent pricing and clear costs. Payroll, benefits, and legal compliance were managed and largely automated. A team of dedicated client success managers handled SLA tracking, performance management, and process optimization.
This shared services model offered the desired balance of flexibility and offshore scalability, allowing for control where needed while removing the need for expensive and hard to find local leadership.
OpenAI achieved 60%+ cost savings compared to hiring in the US or using external consultants. The distraction of administrative processes was removed, and backlogs were cleared with increased transaction processing.
The team consistently received positive feedback for performance and adaptability, and due to its success the size of the operation has quadrupled in less than a year.
“With the hyper growth of our business we knew we needed a partner that could move fast and deliver high quality results at a low price. We also knew the typical big names wouldn’t provide the talent or flexibility we wanted. Fortunately, referrals led us to Catalyst BPX. They’ve quickly built offshore finance, accounting, and ops teams for us that are proactive and high performing.”
