Role Overview for VP, Corporate Controller with a Pharmaceutical Company – Princeton, NJ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, publicly-traded pharmaceutical company based in the vibrant biotech hub of Princeton, NJ, in their search for a dynamic and strategic VP, Corporate Controller. This is a premier leadership opportunity to join a fast-paced, innovative organization dedicated to developing life-changing therapies. The VP, Corporate Controller will be a cornerstone of the finance leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). You will be entrusted with the integrity of the company’s global accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal control environment.
This executive role is not merely about compliance and reporting; it is about strategic partnership and value creation. You will serve as a key advisor to the executive team, providing critical insights that shape financial strategy and support the company’s ambitious growth trajectory, including clinical development, commercialization, and potential M&A activities. The ideal candidate is a hands-on yet strategic leader with extensive experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, a deep understanding of complex accounting principles, and a proven track record of building and mentoring high-performing teams.
You will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of all financial data, navigating the complexities of SEC regulations, and scaling the accounting function to support a growing global enterprise. This position offers a unique chance to make a significant impact on a mission-driven company at the forefront of medical innovation.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Corporate Controller with a Pharmaceutical Company – Princeton, NJ
The VP, Corporate Controller will direct all aspects of the accounting function. This includes, but is not limited to, the following key responsibilities:
SEC Reporting and Compliance
Oversee the preparation and filing of all external financial reports, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and the annual proxy statement. Ensure all disclosures are accurate, timely, and in full compliance with SEC regulations and U.S. GAAP requirements. Act as the primary point of contact for external auditors and manage the quarterly review and annual audit processes seamlessly.
Technical Accounting Leadership
Serve as the company’s primary subject matter expert on complex technical accounting issues. Research, evaluate, and document the accounting implications of significant transactions, such as collaborations, licensing agreements, M&A, and equity/debt financings. Proactively monitor new accounting standards from the FASB and SEC and lead their implementation across the organization. Ensure adherence to U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Global Close and Consolidation
Lead the global month-end, quarter-end, and year-end financial close processes. Ensure all balance sheet accounts are reconciled, and financial statements are consolidated accurately and efficiently. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to shorten the close cycle and enhance reporting capabilities.
Internal Controls and SOX Compliance
Own the design, implementation, and maintenance of a robust internal control framework compliant with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX). Continuously assess risks and control effectiveness, working closely with internal and external auditors to manage the SOX testing program. Foster a culture of accountability and strong internal controls throughout the organization.
Team Leadership and Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-caliber global accounting team. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture focused on professional growth, accuracy, and continuous improvement. Set clear goals, provide regular feedback, and build a scalable team structure to support future growth.
Treasury and Cash Management
Oversee key treasury functions, including cash flow forecasting, working capital management, and investment strategies. Manage banking relationships and ensure adequate liquidity to meet operational needs.
Tax Strategy and Compliance
Partner with external tax advisors to oversee the company’s global tax strategy, planning, and compliance. Ensure timely and accurate filing of all federal, state, and international tax returns. Manage the tax provision process for financial reporting purposes.
Business Partnership and Systems
Collaborate closely with the FP&A team, R&D, Clinical Operations, and Commercial departments to provide financial insights and support business decisions. Drive the optimization and scalability of financial systems (ERP, reporting tools) to enhance efficiency and data integrity.
Requirements for the VP, Corporate Controller with a Pharmaceutical Company – Princeton, NJ
We are seeking a seasoned and highly qualified professional who meets the following criteria:
Education and Certification
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance is required. An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory. An MBA or advanced degree is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (Controller, Assistant Controller, or Director of Accounting) within a publicly-traded company.
Industry Expertise
Significant experience within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry is essential. A deep understanding of industry-specific accounting issues, such as clinical trial accruals, revenue recognition for collaboration and licensing agreements (ASC 606), and R&D accounting, is required.
Technical Acumen
Extensive experience with SEC reporting and SOX 404 compliance is a must. The candidate must possess expert-level knowledge of U.S. GAAP and be comfortable researching and concluding on complex accounting matters.
Leadership Skills
Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate a diverse team of accounting professionals. A track record of building scalable processes and functions in a high-growth environment.
Systems Proficiency
Hands-on experience with large-scale ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle) and proficiency with financial reporting and consolidation tools.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. The ability to distill complex financial concepts and present them clearly and concisely to senior management, the board of directors, and other stakeholders. Strong executive presence and influencing skills.
Public Accounting Foundation
Experience at a ‘Big 4’ or national public accounting firm is strongly preferred, providing a solid foundation in audit and technical accounting.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Competitive Compensation
A compelling base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity incentive package (stock options/RSUs).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A suite of premium health benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage for you and your eligible dependents. The package also includes access to wellness programs and mental health resources.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A competitive paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your career growth with opportunities for continued learning, attending industry conferences, and tuition reimbursement programs.
Additional Perks
Other benefits may include life insurance, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and an employee assistance program (EAP).
How to Apply
This is a retained search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative accounting leader with the requisite experience in the pharmaceutical industry and are ready to take on a pivotal role in a company making a real difference, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter. For more information about our expertise in placing top-tier financial executives, please visit the JRG Partners’ Accounting & Finance practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.
