Senior Director Accounting/Controller

Job Summary

Cartesian Therapeutics is reimagining Cell Therapies with promising breakthroughs to help patients with autoimmune diseases.We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Controller to join our finance team. The Controller will be responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting activities, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and providing strategic financial insights to support the company's growth. This role requires a strong background in financial management within the biopharmaceutical industry, particularly with experience in clinical trials.

Principal Duties/Responsibilities:

• Day-to-day management of all aspects of the company's accounting and financial operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and assistance with external financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and other regulatory requirements, including review of SEC filings and reporting.
• Prepare and present accurate and timely financial statements, including all four statements on a GAAP basis.
• Develop and implement internal controls and financial policies to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity.
• Collaborate with the management team to provide strategic financial insights and support decision-making processes.
• Manage the annual audit process and coordinate with external auditors.
• Oversee the financial aspects of clinical trials, including understanding budgeting in collaboration with FP&A, cost tracking, and external financial reporting.
• Monitor and analyze financial performance, identifying trends and areas for improvement both in finance operation and with internal controls as company evolves and matures.
• Lead and mentor the finance team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Manage the external SOX and Tax advisors, currently outsourced to RSM and EY (tax compliance).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field; Masters of Accounting or CPA certification preferred.
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in accounting and finance, with at least 3 years in a Controller or fundamentally similar leadership role.
• Experience in the biopharmaceutical industry is required and experience in clinical stage company strongly preferred
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, SEC regulations, and financial reporting requirements.
• Proficiency in NetSuite and other financial systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and integrity.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Occasional travel may be required for meetings and other business-related activities.