Assistant Controller / Controller

The Assistant Controller/Controller (consultant role) will oversee the maintenance of the Company’s financial and accounting departments. This is a hands-on role for a technically strong accounting professional who can navigate complex biotech transactions, manage a team, and improve processes in a lean organization. The Assistant Controller/Controller (Consultant role) will partner across Finance and the business, balancing public-company rigor with practical, efficient execution.

Responsibilities

Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close, reconciliations, and internal management reporting; ensure accurate and complete accounting records in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Oversee the accounting components of Clinical/R&D accruals, prepayments, commitments, and program-level expenses, including review of estimates, journal entries, reconciliations, and true-ups.

Own and review SEC filings (Forms 10-K, 10-Q, and 8-K, and proxy statements), ensuring compliance with applicable SEC disclosure requirements; proficiency in Active Disclosure or a similar reporting platform is preferred.

Lead the Company’s equity compensation program and stock-based compensation accounting, including option, RSU, and ESPP activity, ASC 718 accounting, and common share/equity pool reconciliations.

Partner with Clinical Operations, Technical Operations, and FP&A to establish supportable accruals for contract research organizations, contract manufacturers, and investigator sites using contracts, operational progress, and vendor data.

Lead SOX and internal control activities within accounting, including risk assessment, documentation, testing, and remediation.

Support management assessments and external auditor attestation under SOX Section 404.

Partner with IT and business process owners on access, segregation of duties, and related controls.

Serve as the primary accounting contact for external and internal auditors; coordinate audit and quarterly-review support for accounting operations and SOX testing.

Oversee payroll and employee benefits accounting, including review of payroll-related journal entries, accrued compensation, bonuses, stock-based compensation, and employee benefit costs

Manage the Company’s corporate insurance programs, including policy renewals, coverage reviews, premium negotiations, coordination with brokers and insurance carriers, and ensuring appropriate coverage for the Company’s evolving business needs.

Oversee General Ledger, Accounts Payable, disbursements, fixed assets, and expense processes.

Maintain effective invoice processing, payment-approval, and disbursement controls.

Support income tax provision and compliance activities by providing accurate accounting records and schedules to the responsible internal teams and external advisors.

Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team and manage accounting service providers.

Establish clear accountability, cross-training, and professional development opportunities.

Partner with Finance team to provide reliable actuals, accruals, and insights for budgeting, forecasting, cash planning, and liquidity assessments.

Provide accounting analysis and due diligence support for financing, partnerships, and other corporate transactions. Communicate complex issues clearly and raise risks early with practical recommendations.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline; CPA required; Big Four experience preferred.

10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years leading teams and significant experience within a U.S. publicly traded biotechnology or life sciences company.

Prior hands-on experience in an operational accounting role, including direct responsibility for leading public-company accounting operations, the financial close, preparation of accounting analyses, SEC reporting, audit support, and SOX compliance.

Proficiency with ERP and accounting and payroll systems; advanced Excel skills and a track record of improving close, accrual, and internal reporting processes and data quality. Proficient in NetSuite, , Coupa, Concur, ADP, E-Trade and Active Disclosure (or other similar platforms).

Demonstrated success developing teams and influencing cross-functional partners in a lean environment. Strong analytical and communication skills, sound judgment, integrity, and the confidence to challenge assumptions and uphold accounting standards.