Role Overview for VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical start-up on the leading edge of therapeutic innovation. Located in the vibrant Research Triangle Park (RTP) area of Raleigh, NC, our client is dedicated to developing life-changing treatments for patients with unmet medical needs. As they navigate a period of significant growth and prepare for future milestones, they are seeking a strategic and hands-on VP, Corporate Controller to build and lead their accounting function. This is a unique opportunity to join a dynamic executive team and make a substantial impact on the financial infrastructure and future success of a rapidly scaling organization.
Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer (CFO), the VP, Corporate Controller will be a cornerstone of the finance leadership team. You will be responsible for the integrity of all accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and tax compliance. This role demands a leader who can seamlessly transition between high-level strategic thinking and detailed, hands-on execution. You will be instrumental in scaling the company’s financial processes and systems, ensuring they are robust enough to support clinical development, commercialization, and the rigorous demands of a public company environment.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned accounting professional with deep experience in the biopharma industry, a strong public accounting foundation, and a proven track record of leadership in high-growth, pre-IPO or newly public settings. You will be the architect of a world-class accounting organization, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Raleigh, NC
The VP, Corporate Controller will assume a broad range of responsibilities, critical to the company’s financial health and regulatory compliance. Your duties will be comprehensive and will evolve as the company grows. Key responsibilities include:
Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations
Oversee all aspects of the accounting function, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets. Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring they are completed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Prepare and present timely financial statements and analysis to the executive team and Board of Directors.
SEC Reporting and Compliance
For this public or soon-to-be-public entity, you will lead the preparation and filing of all external financial reports. This includes managing the drafting and submission of Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, proxy statements, and other required SEC filings. Ensure compliance with all SEC regulations, including Regulation S-K and S-X, and stay current on emerging pronouncements.
Internal Controls & SOX Compliance
Design, implement, and maintain a robust system of internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR). Lead the company’s Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) compliance efforts, including risk assessment, process documentation, testing, and remediation. Liaise with internal and external auditors on all SOX-related matters.
Technical Accounting Leadership
Serve as the company’s primary expert on complex technical accounting issues. Research, evaluate, and document the accounting implications of significant transactions, such as collaborations, licensing agreements, equity financing, and mergers and acquisitions. Key areas of focus will include revenue recognition (ASC 606), lease accounting (ASC 842), stock-based compensation (ASC 718), and accounting for clinical trial accruals.
Audit & Tax Management
Manage the relationship with the company’s independent external auditors, overseeing the successful execution of quarterly reviews and the annual financial audit. Coordinate all audit activities to ensure a smooth and efficient process. Oversee all tax matters, including federal, state, and local income tax compliance, R&D tax credits, and sales/use tax, working with external tax advisors as necessary.
Team Leadership & Development
Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing accounting team. Foster a collaborative and positive work environment that promotes professional growth and excellence. Set clear goals and expectations for the team and provide regular feedback and coaching.
Systems & Process Improvement
Drive the continuous improvement and scaling of accounting systems, policies, and procedures to support the company’s rapid growth. Lead the selection and implementation of new financial systems (e.g., ERP, equity management software) as needed to enhance efficiency and control.
Strategic Collaboration
Partner closely with the FP&A team on budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. Collaborate cross-functionally with leaders in R&D, Clinical Operations, and G&A to ensure financial processes support their operational needs and to provide insightful financial guidance.
Requirements for the VP, Corporate Controller with a Biopharma Start-up – Raleigh, NC
We are seeking a candidate with a distinguished track record and the specific expertise required to excel in this demanding role. The qualifications are as follows:
Education & Certification
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. An active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is mandatory. An MBA is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive accounting experience, including a significant tenure in a leadership role (e.g., Corporate Controller, Assistant Controller, Director of Accounting).
Industry Expertise
Must have substantial experience within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry. A deep understanding of the unique accounting challenges of this sector, such as clinical trial accruals and R&D accounting, is essential.
Public Company & SEC Reporting
Extensive, hands-on experience with SEC reporting and SOX 404 compliance is required. Experience leading a company through an IPO or managing the accounting function in a newly public environment is a significant advantage.
Accounting Foundation
A strong foundation in public accounting is highly preferred, ideally with a ‘Big 4’ or large national firm.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC regulations, and internal control frameworks (COSO). Proven ability to research and conclude on complex accounting matters.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated success in building, managing, and developing high-performing accounting teams in a fast-paced environment. Must be an inspiring leader who can motivate and guide their team through periods of change and growth.
Systems Acumen
Proficiency with modern ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Oracle, SAP) and other financial software. Experience with system implementations is a plus.
Personal Attributes
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate complex financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders. A strategic mindset with meticulous attention to detail. High integrity, strong work ethic, and a proactive, problem-solving approach. Ability to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and science-driven culture.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in investing in their people and 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 and an attractive annual performance-based bonus.
Meaningful Equity
A significant equity stake in the company through stock options, providing the opportunity to share directly in the company’s long-term success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Professional Growth
A commitment to your professional development with support for continuing education, conferences, and certifications.
Innovative Culture
The opportunity to work alongside a brilliant and passionate team in a collaborative, fast-paced, and mission-driven environment where your contributions have a direct impact on the company and patients’ lives.
How to Apply
If you are a driven and experienced accounting leader ready to take on a pivotal role in a promising biopharma company, we encourage you to apply. This is a chance to build an accounting function from the ground up and contribute to a meaningful mission.
To be considered for this exclusive opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. JRG Partners is managing this search on behalf of our client. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Finance & Accounting practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our client’s success.
