Controller

Asahi Kasei; Fremont (CA); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Bionova Scientific LLC in Fremont, CA, is seeking a Controller to act as a strategic finance leader, overseeing accounting, reporting, internal controls, and compliance. You will support the CDMO business model, including milestone-based revenue and capex tracking.

The role requires 10+ years in accounting/finance, US GAAP expertise, and biopharma/CDMO experience. Hybrid work in Fremont, CA, with close collaboration across BD, PM, HR, SC, IT, and Operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting/finance is required or equivalent.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, biotech/pharma/CDMO preferred.
• Knowledge of US GAAP, revenue recognition, and cost accounting.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end close with accuracy and compliance.
• Oversee financial statements, variance analysis, and senior leadership reporting.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and audit readiness.

Skills

US GAAP

Financial reporting

Excel proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance

CPA strongly preferred

Tools

QAD

SAP

NetSuite

Job description

The Asahi Kasei Group operates with a commitment of creating for tomorrow. Our business sectors, Material, Homes, and Health Care, contribute to the development of society by anticipating the changing needs of those around the world. We look for candidates that offer a fresh perspective and a variety of skills to help us achieve our commitment.

Bionova is a rapidly growing, biologics CDMO focused on developing and manufacturing recombinant protein products using mammalian cell culture processes. Our business success is built on bringing together top scientific talent, arming them with the best available tools, and setting them loose in an agile, energized culture focused on solving difficult client problems. Because our success depends on our ability to exceed our clients' expectations, we look for candidates with an innate desire to serve. Adaptability and an interest in transformative action are also common attributes among our team. Bionova became a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Medical in May 2022, a division of Tokyo-based Asahi Kasei Group. This acquisition has enabled Bionova to greatly accelerate growth of the business, both in capacity of current service offerings and expansion into new service offerings.

Company:

Bionova Scientific LLC

Job Description:

We are seeking a Controller that will serve as a strategic finance leader, responsible for overseeing the company's accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance functions. You will play a critical role in supporting the CDMO business model, including service (milestone) based revenue recognition, and capex and cost tracking. The ideal candidate has prior experience in the biotech, pharmaceutical, or CDMO sector and understands the unique requirements of operating in a regulated manufacturing environment.

Location: Fremont, CA

Hybrid

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with US GAAP.
• Oversee preparation of financial statements, variance analysis, and reporting packages for senior leadership and Executives.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and audit requirements.
• Manage revenue recognition for CDMO contracts, including service (milestone) payments, progress billing, and long-term manufacturing/service agreements.
• Partner with BD and Program Management teams to review client contracts, ensuring financial terms are accurately captured and reported.
• Monitor deferred revenue, WIP (work-in-progress), and ensure accurate reporting of client-related costs.
• Oversee cost accounting for GMP and non-GMP operations, including material consumption, batch costing, and variance analysis.
• Work closely with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Program Management to track project margins and provide insights into profitability.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes, aligning financial plans with business goals.
• Establish and maintain strong internal controls, policies, and procedures across accounting and finance functions.
• Oversee payroll, accounts payable/receivable, fixed assets, and treasury management.
• Drive system enhancements (ERP/QAD or equivalent) to streamline reporting, PO tracking, and integration with project management tools.
• Manage and mentor the accounting team, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with BD, PM, HR, SC, IT, and Operations to ensure financial clarity and alignment.
• Collaborate with the parent company's accounting team to fulfill the reporting requirements and provide requested financial information.
• Coordinate with external accounting firms to manage annual financial statement and tax audits, ensuring timely preparation, accurate reporting, and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with CFO to oversee daily financial operations and ensure accurate reporting, while also partnering on long-term financial planning, budgeting, and strategic initiatives to support the company’s growth and objectives.

Working Conditions:

• This position requires working in an office setting, though a flexible arrangement allows for remote work a few days each week.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; CPA strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, with at least 5 years in biotech, pharma, or CDMO preferred.
• Deep knowledge of US GAAP, revenue recognition, and cost accounting principles.
• Hands-on experience with milestone accounting, project-based financials, and contract review.
• ERP systems experience (QAD, SAP, NetSuite, or equivalent).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills with the ability to present to executives and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to thrive in a high-growth, fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Excel, especially large data sets (Pivot tables, V-lookups, Index-match) is preferred.
• Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control procedures.
• Experience in pharmaceutical or biotech industries is a plus.

The base compensation range for this role is $190,000-$210,000. Base Compensation is influenced by many factors including, but not limited to: time in the role, previous experience, skills, knowledge, performance, work requirements, internal equity, and business / economic conditions.

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As an equal opportunity employer, Asahi Kasei believes a diverse workforce will provide us with the ability to continuously support the changes in the economy, society, and environment.