Assistant Controller

Apnimed; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Apnimed, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, seeks an Assistant Controller to lead accounting operations, the monthly close, and external financial reporting. This role ensures U.S.

GAAP and SEC compliance, partnering with Finance, Legal, Investor Relations, and external auditors to support public company reporting in a fast-paced biotech environment. You will manage the complete close cycle, prepare flux analyses, and oversee equity compensation, debt, leases, and other transactions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master's degree a plus.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive accounting and financial reporting experience.
• Public accounting experience, preferably Big Four or national firm.
• Experience managing SEC reporting for a publicly traded company.
• Biotech/pharma/life sciences industry experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting, and SOX 404.

Responsibilities

• Manage the monthly, quarterly and annual close processes and ensure timely, accurate reporting.
• Review journal entries and reconciliations; drive efficiencies in close cycles.
• Prepare flux analyses and support internal controls framework.
• Lead SEC reporting: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, proxies, Section 16 filings.
• Coordinate with Finance, Legal, Investor Relations and external auditors.
• Oversee XBRL filings and maintain SOX 404 controls.
• Assist with capital markets transactions and special reporting projects.

Skills

Technical accounting

SOX compliance

SEC reporting

Financial close management

XBRL

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA designation

Master's degree (plus)

Tools

Workiva

SEC reporting software

Job description

Apnimed is a rapidly growing pharmaceutical company focused on transforming the treatment of sleep apnea through innovative, patient-friendly therapies. Our approach is rooted in a simple idea: patients with obstructive sleep apnea may benefit from a safe, effective oral medication taken once daily at bedtime.

Our lead development program targets the neurologic control of upper airway muscles to help maintain an open airway during sleep. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Apnimed is advancing a portfolio of novel pharmacologic therapies for sleep apnea and related disorders through cutting-edge science and a commitment to innovation.

Recognized by the Boston Business Journal as one of the Best Places to Work in both 2024 and 2025, we are continuing to grow and build the foundational operations that enable our employees and our mission to thrive.

Position Overview

The Assistant Controller will support the accounting function and partner closely with the Controller in managing the organization’s accounting operations, financial close process, internal controls and financial reporting activities. This individual will oversee key aspects of the monthly, quarterly and annual close, including preparation of external financial reporting and SEC compliance activities. This individual will ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP and SEC regulations, and partner closely with Finance, Legal, Investor Relations, and external auditors to support all public company reporting requirements.

This is a highly visible individual contributor role requiring strong technical accounting expertise, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced biotechnology environment.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Accounting and Close Process

• Manage and oversee the monthly, quarterly and annual financial close process ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.
• Review journal entries and account reconciliations prepared by the accounting team.
• Identify and drive efficiencies within the financial close process to reduce timing of close.
• Prepare flux analysis and supporting schedules to support internal control framework.
• Research and evaluate complex accounting issues and work with external consultants where necessary to prepare technical accounting memoranda for significant transactions.
• Support accounting for equity compensation, debt, leases, revenue recognition and other non-routine transactions.

SEC Reporting and Compliance

• Lead the preparation, review, and timely filing of all SEC reports, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, proxy statements, Section 16 filings, and other required SEC submissions.
• Prepare financial statements, footnotes, Management's Discussion and Analysis (MD&A), earnings release support, and other required disclosures.
• Ensure compliance with SEC regulations, U.S. GAAP, and all public company financial reporting requirements.
• Oversee the preparation, review, and submission of XBRL filings, ensuring accuracy and compliance with SEC requirements.
• Partner closely with Finance, Legal, Investor Relations, and external auditors to coordinate quarterly and annual reporting activities.
• Maintain and enhance internal controls over financial reporting in accordance with SOX 404 requirements including documentation, control execution, remediation efforts, and coordination with external auditors.
• Monitor changes in SEC regulations, accounting guidance, and reporting requirements, providing recommendations for implementation.
• Coordinate external audit activities related to SEC reporting and serve as a key contact for auditors during quarterly reviews and annual audits.
• Assist with special projects, capital markets transactions, and other public company reporting initiatives as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required; Master's degree is a plus.
• CPA designation strongly preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive accounting and financial reporting experience.
• Prior public accounting experience, preferably with a Big Four or national public accounting firm.
• Experience managing SEC reporting for a publicly traded company.
• Biotech, pharmaceutical, or life sciences industry experience strongly preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SEC reporting requirements, SOX 404 compliance, and financial statement preparation.
• Demonstrated experience preparing Forms 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, proxy statements, and related SEC filings.
• Experience with XBRL reporting and SEC reporting software (such as Workiva or similar platforms) is preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple functions.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and consistently meet critical filing deadlines.

The salary range for this position is $140,000 - $170,000. Final compensation will be determined based on multiple factors and may fall outside of the posted range.