Assistant Controller/Controller

Affinia Therapeutics - Waltham, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Waltham, MA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

Affinia Therapeutics is a biotech company developing transformative gene therapies for cardiovascular and neurological diseases. We are backed by a strong syndicate of life science investors and have ambitious plans to have a dramatic impact on the lives of patients around the world. The pace of work is dynamic, fast and fun. We are looking for a curious, organized and self-motivated individual to join our team at Affinia. Team members work together across functions towards a common cause. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience and develop in a dynamic, next-generation gene therapy environment. We offer competitive salary and benefits with the ability to make a difference.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting operations, including month-end and quarter-end close, and report financial results to those charged with governance to ensure compliance with US GAAP, taking into account future adherence to PCAOB requirements and public company reporting timelines
• Research, establish and maintain proper accounting treatment for new and complex business transactions, including collaboration agreements, debt and equity financings, and lease and manufacturing contracts.
• Assist with project-based work to identify and effect business process improvements across the organization and maintain an effective control environment.
• Assist with both short-term and long-term budgeting and forecasting.
• Assist with the selection and implementation of new and upgraded systems to support financial reporting and improve internal control and business process documentation.
• Support and coordinate preparation for financial statement audits and tax compliance reporting, including corresponding with related third-party experts, including valuation, tax, and audit experts.
• Oversee and participate in the mentorship and development of our senior accountant.

Requirements

• Minimum BS/BA in accounting/finance. Advanced degree, CPA preferred
• 8-10 years of financial and accounting experience, within public life sciences/biotechnology company preferred
• Thorough understanding of US GAAP and basic accrual accounting, 2+ years of public accounting experience, Big 4 preferred
• Strong project management and leadership skills, and experience managing employees, consultants, and external vendor relationships
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including strong presentation skills
• Positive attitude and a team-oriented, enthusiastic mentality, and a willingness to take on new challenges and to work cross-functionally within the organization to help communicate financial results to management and to scientists
• Experience with general ledger functions and month/quarter-end close analysis, including experience with Netsuite or a similar-caliber ERP system
• Experience with preparing and maintaining monthly reconciliations and biotech/life science-specific schedules, including schedules tracking discovery spending, R&D capital expenditures, clinical accruals and collaborator spending
• Experience developing new business processes and internal controls, preferably at a public company