Role Overview for VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering, venture-backed biopharmaceutical start-up in their search for a dynamic and strategic VP, Corporate Controller. Located in the vibrant biotech hub of Cambridge, MA, our client is at the forefront of developing novel therapies for critical diseases. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned accounting leader to build and scale the financial infrastructure of a rapidly growing organization poised for significant milestones, including potential future public offerings.
As the VP, Corporate Controller, you will be a cornerstone of the finance leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). You will be entrusted with the complete oversight of all accounting operations, including financial reporting, internal controls, tax, and treasury. This role demands a hands-on leader who can balance high-level strategic thinking with meticulous execution. You will be instrumental in shaping the company’s financial policies and procedures, ensuring fiscal integrity, and supporting its journey from a private start-up to a mature, publicly-traded entity.
The ideal candidate is a proactive, detail-oriented professional with extensive experience in the biopharma industry, a strong public accounting background, and a proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment. You will not only manage the numbers but also serve as a key business partner to senior leadership, providing critical financial insights that drive strategic decision-making and fuel the company’s mission-driven growth.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
Leadership & Team Development
Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing accounting team. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Set clear goals and provide ongoing development and coaching to team members.
Financial Reporting & Close Process
Oversee the entire month-end, quarter-end, and year-end financial close process to ensure timeliness and accuracy. Prepare and review comprehensive financial statements and related disclosures in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
SEC Reporting & Compliance
Lead the preparation and filing of all external financial reports for a public company, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, and the annual proxy statement. Ensure compliance with all SEC regulations and reporting requirements, referencing resources like the SEC’s EDGAR database for filings.
Technical Accounting Expertise
Serve as the company’s primary subject matter expert on complex technical accounting issues. Research, interpret, and implement new accounting standards. Provide guidance on matters such as revenue recognition (ASC 606), lease accounting (ASC 842), stock-based compensation (ASC 718), and clinical trial accruals.
Internal Controls & SOX Compliance
Design, implement, document, and maintain a robust system of internal controls over financial reporting. Lead the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance program, including risk assessment, process walkthroughs, testing, and remediation efforts.
Audit Management
Act as the primary point of contact for external auditors. Manage the quarterly reviews and annual financial audit process, ensuring a smooth and efficient engagement.
Tax Strategy & Compliance
Oversee all corporate tax matters in collaboration with external tax advisors. Manage the preparation and filing of federal, state, and local tax returns, and ensure compliance with all tax regulations.
Treasury & Cash Management
Manage treasury operations, including daily cash positioning, cash flow forecasting, and investment of corporate funds. Maintain and cultivate strong relationships with banking partners.
Systems & Process Improvement
Continuously evaluate and enhance accounting systems, processes, and policies to support company growth and scalability. Lead initiatives to automate manual processes and may lead the selection and implementation of a new ERP system.
Strategic Business Partnership
Collaborate closely with the CFO, FP&A team, and other executive leaders. Provide insightful financial analysis to support budgeting, forecasting, and long-range strategic planning. Participate in M&A due diligence and integration as needed.
Requirements for the VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree is a plus.
Certification
Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting and finance experience. A combination of Big 4 public accounting experience and senior-level industry experience is strongly preferred.
Industry Expertise
Significant experience within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry is essential. Must have experience in a publicly-traded company environment.
Technical Acumen
Deep and current knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting regulations, and SOX 404 compliance requirements. Proven experience with complex accounting areas relevant to the biopharma industry.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated success in building, managing, and developing high-performing teams. Must be a collaborative leader with a player-coach mentality.
Systems Proficiency
Experience with large-scale ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Oracle, SAP) and proficiency with financial reporting and equity management software.
Communication
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial concepts to both financial and non-financial audiences.
Personal Attributes
High level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results-orientation. Must be adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced start-up culture. Strategic thinker with a hands-on, detail-oriented approach.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- Highly competitive base salary and annual performance-based bonus.
- Substantial equity package with significant upside potential.
- Comprehensive benefits plan, including premium medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- Generous 401(k) plan with a strong company match.
- Excellent paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
- Company-sponsored life and disability insurance.
- Opportunities for professional growth and continued education.
- A vibrant, collaborative, and mission-driven work culture located in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Commuter benefits and other workplace perks.
How to Apply
If you are a driven and experienced accounting leader ready to make a significant impact on a promising biopharma company, we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is exclusively managing this critical search on behalf of our client. To be considered for this exciting opportunity, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the life sciences sector. To learn more about our dedicated focus and other opportunities in this space, you can explore our expertise in Life Sciences and Biopharma recruitment.
