Director of Accounting

Director of Accounting

We are looking for an experienced Director of Accounting to lead core accounting operations for a growing biotech organization in South San Francisco. This role will guide financial close activities, oversee clinical and operational accounting, and help strengthen reporting accuracy across the business. The position offers strong visibility with cross-functional leadership and the chance to shape a scalable accounting function in a fast-moving environment.

Responsibilities

• Direct the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close cycles, ensuring timely completion of journal entries, balance sheet reconciliations, accruals, prepaid accounting, and cash-related transactions.
• Oversee accounting for clinical development spending by managing study accruals and working closely with Clinical Operations to maintain accurate cost tracking and reporting.
• Lead day-to-day operational accounting activities, including regulatory reporting related to 1099 and 1042 filings as well as sales and use tax compliance.
• Maintain adherence to U.S. accounting standards, internal control expectations, and established company accounting policies across all assigned areas.
• Collaborate with technical accounting and external auditors to support audits, compliance efforts, and the resolution of complex accounting matters.
• Improve accounting workflows by identifying opportunities for automation and better use of systems such as NetSuite, Excel, BlackLine, and AI-enabled tools.
• Manage and develop members of the accounting team, fostering accountability, careful growth, and a collaborative team culture.
• Balance strategic leadership with hands-on execution, stepping into detailed accounting work when needed to support business priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.

• CPA designation combined with a mix of public accounting and industry experience.

• At least 8 years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including background within a public biotech or life sciences organization.

• Proven expertise in clinical accounting, particularly the management of complex clinical trial accruals.

• Demonstrated success leading an accounting function, including hiring, mentoring, and retaining high-performing talent.

• Strong communication and partnership skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams.

• Proficiency with financial systems and reporting tools, including NetSuite, BlackLine, and Excel.

• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment and adjust priorities as business needs evolve.

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