Associate Director, Accounting

Position Summary

The Associate Director of Accounting will play a key leadership role within the Accounting organization of a commercial-stage, publicly traded biotechnology company. This position is responsible for overseeing complex accounting areas including third-party manufacturing accruals, non-clinical activities, commercial and other SG&A expenses, investments, and cash reconciliations. The role requires strong technical accounting expertise, sound judgment, and experience operating in a SOX 404(b) compliant environment. The Associate Director will partner closely with cross-functional teams and external auditors while ensuring accurate, timely financial reporting and effective internal controls.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting & Close Process

• Oversee the monthly and quarterly close processes for:
• Third-party manufacturing and supply chain accruals
• Non-clinical and preclinical activities
• Commercial and other SG&A expense accruals and analysis
• Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with US GAAP.
• 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 & SOX Compliance

• 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).
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including experience at a public company subject to SOX 404(b).
• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and internal control frameworks.
• Experience with accrual accounting related to manufacturing, R&D/non-clinical activities, and commercial and general and administrative expenses.
• Prior experience managing or mentoring staff.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet tight deadlines.

Preferred

• Biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry experience.
• Big 4 public accounting experience.
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle).
• Experience supporting SEC reporting and external audits.

Key Competencies

• 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

The salary range for this position is $185,000 to $205,000 USD. Compensation will be determined based on several factors including, but not limited to; skill set, years of experience, and the employee’s geographic location. Please note that the required compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and do not include bonus, equity, or benefits unless otherwise provided.

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