Biotech Controller & Financial Governance Leader

Octant Bio; Emeryville (CA); On-site; USD 240,000 - 280,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Equity

401(k) matching

Job summary

Octant Bio, a clinical‑stage biotech focused on correcting protein misfolding, seeks a Controller to lead the accounting function and scale with growth. Reporting to the VP of Finance, you will drive GAAP compliance, close processes, and cross‑functional collaboration across the organization to build robust financial governance.

You will oversee audits, partner with tax on filings and credits, and implement systems (NetSuite, Ramp, Quartzy) to support strategic decisions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and an active CPA license.
• 10+ years progressive accounting experience, including Big 4 and/or public company experience.
• Biotech/pharma experience, especially in clinical‑stage companies.
• Deep knowledge of US GAAP, SEC regulations and SOX compliance.
• Exceptionally strong judgment and integrity.
• A hands‑on position with leadership responsibilities.
• Collaborative attitude and ability to work in cross‑functional teams.
• Good communication skills for explaining financial concepts to non‑finance audiences.
• Thrives in a fast paced, startup environment.
• Proven leadership in driving change and implementing initiatives broadly.

Responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day accounting operations and oversee outsourced accounting team.
• Lead the financial close process and prepare monthly, quarterly and annual statements.
• Ensure GAAP alignment; prepare memos; stay current on FASB pronouncements.
• Establish and update accounting policies and controls; drive process improvements.
• Oversee external audits and coordinate with auditors.
• Coordinate with tax firm on local, state, and federal filings; lead R&D tax credit studies and Sec 382 analysis.
• Collaborate with People Ops, Legal, Purchasing and IT to implement cross‑functional processes and financial systems (NetSuite, Ramp, Quartzy).
• Provide insight on accounting matters to executive team.
• Develop reporting infrastructure aligned with public company standards and SOX controls.
• Lead and mentor the accounting function to scale with company growth.

Skills

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree

CPA license

Tools

NetSuite

Ramp

Quartzy

Job description

Octant Bio, a clinical‑stage biotech focused on correcting protein misfolding, seeks a Controller to lead the accounting function and scale with growth. Reporting to the VP of Finance, you will drive GAAP compliance, close processes, and cross‑functional collaboration across the organization to build robust financial governance.

You will oversee audits, partner with tax on filings and credits, and implement systems (NetSuite, Ramp, Quartzy) to support strategic decisions.