IPO-Ready Controller

Doist; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 270,000 - 325,000; Full time

Job summary

City Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company, seeks a VP Controller to lead global accounting, reporting, and internal controls. This role will drive the architecture for potential transition to a public company and build an in-house accounting team to support SEC readiness.

You will oversee GAAP reporting, tax, and external audits in a fast-paced biotech environment. The position reports to the CFO and requires deep expertise in US GAAP, SEC regulations, and SOX, with a track record in public

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• Active CPA license preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience with at least 3 years in a corporate controller or VP role.
• Big 4 public accounting experience a plus.
• Biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience preferred.
• IPO experience or building a public accounting function a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead SEC reporting, financial infrastructure, and GAAP-compliant statements.
• Partner with outsourced accounting to transition data in-house.
• Manage SEC platforms (e.g., Workiva) and ensure accuracy of digital reporting.
• Oversee SOX controls and accounting system upgrades to support a potential IPO.
• Lead external auditors and legal for complex compliance projects.
• Present results to the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
• Oversee tax provisioning, filings, and NOL/R&D credits.
• Oversee A/P, A/R, and payroll capabilities.
• Collaborate with Clinical Ops, CMC, and Program Management on accruals.
• Guide capex, asset tracking, and lease accounting.
• Advise leadership on financial and accounting impacts of decisions.

Skills

US GAAP

SEC regulations

SOX compliance

XBRL tagging

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

Active CPA license

Tools

NetSuite

Job description

City Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical company, seeks a VP Controller to lead global accounting, reporting, and internal controls. This role will drive the architecture for potential transition to a public company and build an in-house accounting team to support SEC readiness.

You will oversee GAAP reporting, tax, and external audits in a fast-paced biotech environment. The position reports to the CFO and requires deep expertise in US GAAP, SEC regulations, and SOX, with a track record in public