Controller

Bionova Scientific, Inc.; Fremont (CA); Hybrid; USD 190,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Bionova Scientific LLC in Fremont, CA is seeking a strategic Controller to lead accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and regulatory compliance in a fast-growing CDMO environment.

You will oversee revenue recognition for milestone-based contracts, manage cost accounting, budgeting, and ERP system enhancements while mentoring the accounting team and partnering with BD, PM, HR, SC, IT, and operations to drive profitability and growth.

Qualifications

• Experience with US GAAP, revenue recognition, and cost accounting.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience with milestone accounting and project-based financials.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes.
• Oversee preparation of financial statements and variance analysis.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory and audit requirements.
• Manage revenue recognition for CDMO contracts, including milestone payments.
• Partner with BD and PM to ensure accurate financial terms in client contracts.
• Monitor deferred revenue, WIP, and client-related costs.
• Oversee cost accounting for GMP and non-GMP operations.
• Lead budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Establish and maintain internal controls and procedures.

Skills

US GAAP

Revenue recognition

Cost accounting

ERP systems

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance

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 reporting requirements and provide requested financial information.
• Coordinate with external accounting firms to manage annual financial statement and tax audits, ensuring timely preparation, accuracy, 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.

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.

#LI-MG1 #Hybrid

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.

Asahi Kasei in North America emphasizes recruiting key talent within the region. Across our multiple business units, we focus on growth, innovation, and initiative to help develop our people and give them the resources they need to succeed.

Part of our mission is to be a good corporate citizen, dedicating our time to employees, customers, and communities around us.

As an employer, Asahi Kasei offers a comprehensive benefits package, growth opportunities throughout our companies, and a diverse environment to enhance your career.

About Asahi Kasei

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 46,000 employees around the world, the company contributes to a sustainable society by providing solutions to the world’s challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Health Care.

In North America, Asahi Kasei currently has over 23 business units and 10,000 employees.

Our People

Asahi Kasei recognizes that our people are our greatest strength.

We operate with an emphasis on developing our employees and promoting from within.

Our broad spectrum of companies within the Material, Homes, and Health Care sectors allows employees to collaborate across locations and industries. The possibilities for employees will continue to grow as we accelerate new business activity internally and externally through mergers and acquisitions.