- Salary
- $190k – $205k/yr
- Location
- Watertown, MA
- Workplace
- Onsite
- Type
- Full-time
- Department
- G&A
- Seniority
- Entry
- Source
- Lever
Description
SUMMARY
We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Associate Director, Accounting, to lead and manage the accounting function during an exciting period of growth and clinical progress. This role offers a unique opportunity to be both strategic and hands-on in building and optimizing accounting processes, systems, and controls in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
The ideal candidate brings a strong technical accounting background, experience in the life sciences sector, and thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced setting. This position will be instrumental in establishing processes to support accurate financial reporting, external audits, and ensuring compliance.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and manage the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness, in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
- Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and internal reporting packages.
- Oversee accounting for technical areas, including clinical trial accruals, R&D costs, and stock-based compensation
- Create financial reporting packages and supporting schedules
- Oversee accounts payable process, ensuring the accurate and timely processing of vendor invoices, payments, and related documentation
- Responsible for accurate and timely processing of payroll for all employees, including salaried, hourly, and contract staff
- Maintain and optimize NetSuite ERP system, ensuring data integrity, system reliability, and alignment with accounting and financial reporting processes
- Oversee the filing of payroll-related tax forms (e.g., 941, W-2, 1099) and ensure timely submission to appropriate agencies
- Manage technical accounting matters, including research and implementation of new accounting standards (e.g., ASC 606, ASC 842)
- Partner with FP&A on variance analysis and management reporting.
- Prepare and manage supporting schedules for external audits and coordinate with auditors and tax advisors
- Support in the preparation of Board and investor materials, as needed.
- Participate in ad hoc projects, including budgeting support, financial modeling, and systems integration.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Clinical, Legal, HR, and Operations teams to support financial accuracy and accountability.
- Maintain and improve internal controls and accounting policies and procedures.
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA preferred.
- 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including public accounting and industry experience, ideally within biotech/pharma
- Strong understanding of U.S. GAAP, SOX-lite/internal controls, and technical accounting concepts
- Experience in a pre-commercial or clinical-stage life sciences company preferred.
- Hands-on experience with ERP/accounting systems (Netsuite experience preferred, not required)
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
- Ability to operate independently and thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.