Associate Director, Accounting

Role Summary

The Associate Director of Accounting will lead the accounting organization for a commercial-stage, publicly traded biotechnology company. This role oversees complex accounting areas including third-party manufacturing accruals, non-clinical activities, commercial and SG&A expenses, investments, and cash reconciliations, requiring strong technical accounting expertise and experience operating in a SOX 404(b) environment. The role partners with cross-functional teams and external auditors to ensure accurate, timely financial reporting and solid internal controls.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the monthly and quarterly close processes for third-party manufacturing and supply chain accruals; non-clinical and preclinical activities; and commercial and other SG&A expense accruals and analysis
• Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules for accuracy, completeness, and US GAAP compliance
• Oversee the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes to ensure timely, accurate financial reporting in accordance with US GAAP
• Ensure timely and accurate recording of complex accruals based on contractual terms and operational data
• Maintain ownership of accounting for investments, including short-term and long-term investments, valuation, income recognition, and related disclosures
• Oversee cash bank reconciliations, ensuring completeness and accuracy of cash balances across multiple accounts

Internal Controls

• Maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting in compliance with SOX 404(b)
• Prepare and review documentation for key controls, including management review controls
• Partner with internal audit and external auditors to support SOX testing, walkthroughs, and remediation efforts
• Identify control gaps and process improvement opportunities; drive timely remediation

Financial Reporting & Audit

• Support preparation of quarterly and annual financial statements and related disclosures
• Serve as a key point of contact for external auditors for assigned accounting areas
• Prepare audit schedules and respond to audit inquiries with high-quality, well-supported documentation

Leadership & Collaboration

• Manage, coach, and develop one direct report, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and technical excellence
• Collaborate cross-functionally with FP&A, Manufacturing, R&D, Supply Chain, sales & marketing, and Legal to ensure accurate accounting and effective communication
• Contribute to scaling accounting processes and systems to support a growing commercial organization

Process Improvement

• Drive efficiencies and standardization across accounting processes, including automation where appropriate
• Assist in implementation or optimization of ERP systems and accounting tools as needed
• Ensure policies and procedures are documented, current, and aligned with best practices

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA strongly preferred)
• Required: 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including experience at a public company subject to SOX 404(b)
• Required: Strong knowledge of US GAAP and internal control frameworks
• Required: Experience with accrual accounting related to manufacturing, R&D/non-clinical activities, and commercial and general and administrative expenses
• Required: Prior experience managing or mentoring staff
• Required: Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet tight deadlines
• Preferred: Biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry experience
• Preferred: Big 4 public accounting experience
• Preferred: Experience with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle)
• Preferred: Experience supporting SEC reporting and external audits

Skills

• Technical accounting and problem-solving
• SOX and internal controls expertise
• Leadership and people development
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Process improvement mindset
• Clear written and verbal communication

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA strongly preferred)